Dimapur, February 19 (MExN): In Nagaland, mushroom production is gradually gaining prominence with various self-help groups taking up cultivation of the fungi, as the market for edible mushrooms continues to grow due to interest in their nutritional and health benefits.
The mushroom, also called ‘white vegetable’ or ‘boneless vegetarian meat’, contains 20-35% protein (dry weight) which is higher than those of vegetables and fruits and is of superior quality. It is considered ideal for patients of hypertension and diabetics. It has potential for meeting nutritional security and generating additional income for farmers, especially through women participation, because it not a very labour-intensive activity.
In light of these advantages, the Farm Information and Advisory Centre (FIAC) Ongpangkong North, ATMA Mokokchung, in collaboration with the District Horticulture office in Mokokchung, conducted training on ‘Mushroom (Oyster) Production’ on February 18 at Moalenden Village.
The training was attended by 25 trainees, 22 of them women. Dr. Rongesen, BTT member, chaired the training where Arenla, Assistant Horticulture Officer, Mokokchung, was the resource person. The training included theory and practical sessions where the scope, benefits and potentials of mushroom cultivation was strongly highlighted.
Technical skills were imparted to the trainees on how to select the paddy straws, chaffing, sterilisation, preparation of stalks in polyethylene bags, inoculation of spawns, identification on when to open the bags, watering, harvesting and post harvest management. The resource person made it clear that although mushroom cultivation is less labour-intensive it is an activity which needs sincerity and commitment for a successful venture.
The discussion session was led by Agriculture Officer Lipok Jamir during which all the doubts of the trainees were responded as per their queries. Jamir stressed on wholehearted involvement and encouraged the trainees to take up mushroom cultivation as a successful enterprise.
Later, each trainee was provided with a packet of spawn and other inputs like polyethylene bags and ropes. BTT Convenor at FIAC Ongpangkong North, ATMA Mokokchung, in a press release, informed that as follow-up, a programme will be in progress to monitor and guide the farmers in taking up mushroom cultivation in a nutritionally and economically productive manner.
