BUDGAM: SKUAST-K, KVK Budgam Tuesday successfully concluded its six weeks MSME entrepreneurship skill development programme titled ‘From spores to harvest: a comprehensive mushroom training’ sponsored by Ministry of Micro, Small &Medium Enterprises, Govt of India. The programme that commenced on from 12 December, 2024 culminated today on 21 January, 2025 was aimed at empowering farmers and farm women with vital skills in mushroom cultivation.
The program equipped participants with knowledge and practical experience to enhance their farming practices and diversify their income sources. This hands-on training brought together over 25 participants of Galwanpora and adjoining villages of district Budgam.
During the programme participants were engaged in a series of interactive sessions covering crucial aspects of mushroom farming, including selecting appropriate mushroom varieties, techniques for spawn preparation and substrate preparation, sustainable cultivation practices, pest and disease management, and harvesting and post-harvest handling.
The training included practical demonstrations allowing participants to get first-hand experience in mushroom farming operations. Participants expressed enthusiasm and commitment in applying their newly acquired skills, with many indicating plans to establish their own mushroom farms or integrate mushroom cultivation into their existing farming practices.
The training also facilitated an interaction with mushroom entrepreneurs like Gowhar Ali, (National award winner in mushroom production) and Syed Arshad in order to share their experience and encouragement to-the participant to take the lead for mushroom farming to enhance food security and generate additional income for families. An exposure visit to Mushroom Research & Training Centre Shalimar was undertaken during the programme.
