Officials along with the farmers during the training programme on shiitake mushroom cultivation held in Kiphire.
Kiphire, March 8 (MExN): The Department of Horticulture, Kiphire, conducted a two-day training programme on shiitake mushroom cultivation at Khongkha and Hakumate villages on Thursday and Friday. The training was sponsored by the Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH) and attended by local farmers and villagers.
Inaugurating the programme, Assistant Labour Commissioner Niulu Meyo encouraged farmers to adopt the technology, stating that shiitake mushroom cultivation offers high returns with relatively low volume.
He said such training programmes would be beneficial for the region as it is rich in raw materials suitable for shiitake cultivation.
Sharing his observations, Meyo also noted that the region is blessed with scenic natural landscapes and said that introducing shiitake cultivation could further enhance the area’s appeal for visitors. He urged villagers to take the opportunity seriously.
District Horticulture Officer Sentinungba, who chaired the programme, said shiitake cultivation has strong potential in the region due to the availability of raw materials and favourable climatic conditions. He added that the department plans to organise similar programmes in the future if villagers show continued interest.
Dr Moa, training in-charge from CIH, shared information on the activities of the institute at Medziphema.
Horticulture Extension Assistant Kapito served as the main resource person and demonstrated techniques related to shiitake mushroom cultivation.
More than 80 farmers from the two villages attended the programme. Tools and equipment required for shiitake cultivation were also distributed to the participating farmers.
