TAWANG, 17 Jul: Farmers were encouraged to take up mushroom cultivation as a reliable source of additional income and self-employment during a training programme on mushroom cultivation conducted in Jemeithang in Tawang district on Friday.

District Horticulture Officer Koncho Gyatso conducted a comprehensive hands-on training in oyster mushroom cultivation, explaining to the participants the complete cultivation process, including substrate preparation, spawning, harvest and post-harvest management.

Oyster mushroom is a short-duration, low-investment and high-return crop, Gyatso said.

ArSRLM block coordinator Tenzin Yangzom conducted a technical session on scientific shiitake mushroom cultivation and the variety’s market potential.

She urged SHG members to explore mushroom cultivation as a group enterprise for strengthening rural livelihoods.

To facilitate immediate adoption of the technology, mushroom cultivation kits comprising oyster mushroom spawn, poly bags, paddy straw, and other essential inputs were distributed to all the participating farmers.

An interactive session was also held, during which the farmers actively engaged with the resource persons, seeking clarifications on cultivation practices, disease management, marketing opportunities, and value addition.

Over 54 farmers, including SHG members, attended the training programme. (DIPRO)