The ZTM & BPD Unit, in collaboration with the Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), successfully conducted a five-day national training programme on “Mushroom Cultivation for Sustainable Agribusiness” from August 25 to 29, 2025. The event brought together students, farmers, women entrepreneurs and government officials from across the country.
The training was inaugurated by Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, on August 25 at the ZTM & BPD Unit Conference Hall. In his inaugural address, Dr. Rao emphasized the growing role of mushrooms in sustainable farming systems and rural entrepreneurship. He encouraged participants to gain practical skills and explore agri-startup opportunities. A training manual titled “Mushroom Cultivation for Sustainable Agribusiness” was also launched during the ceremony.
Key scientists, including Dr. M.S. Saharan, Head, Division of Plant Pathology; Dr. Deeba Kamil, Dr. Amrita Das, and Dr. Akriti Sharma, In-Charge, ZTM & BPD Unit, were present and contributed to the programme's research-based practical orientation.
Over five days, participants explored a wide range of topics including: Introduction to Mushroom Production, Cultivation of Agaricus bitorquis, Compost Preparation Techniques, Spawn Production and Spawning Methods, Cultivation of Shiitake, Paddy Straw, Cordyceps, Oyster, White Button and Milky Mushrooms, Therapeutic and Nutritional Value of Mushrooms, Postharvest Processing, Agricultural Waste Recycling, Enterprise Development, Schemes and Funding Access, Cost-Benefit Analysis and Startup Opportunities in the Mushroom Sector.
On August 28, participants visited a progressive mushroom farm in Sonipat, Haryana, for hands-on exposure to real-world cultivation and processing. The visit enriched their understanding of commercial farm operations, from substrate preparation to marketing.
The valedictory session on August 29 was attended by Dr. C. Viswanathan, Joint Director (Research), ICAR-IARI, as Chief Guest. Dr. Viswanathan congratulated the trainees and urged them to continue engaging with IARI’s training and innovation platforms for their future growth. He also distributed certificates of participation to all trainees.
The training concluded on a high note, with participants expressing appreciation for the blend of scientific knowledge, entrepreneurship insights and field-level exposure, equipping them to enter the mushroom sector with confidence.
