Inspiring Journey of Mushroom Cultivation in Bajali District
A New Era of Self-Reliance Through Mushroom Farming
Patacharkuchi, Jan 6: Binay Pathak, a self-sufficient individual from the Khalihamari region of Bamunkuchi revenue village in Bajali district, has become a beacon of self-reliance through his venture into mushroom cultivation.
Driven by a desire to innovate and equipped with a research-oriented approach, Pathak has crafted a remarkable success narrative in the realm of mushroom farming.
At over 50 years old, he has already established self-sufficiency through various businesses, including fishery, poultry, and duck farming. His commitment to deeply understanding diverse subjects has consistently led him to success throughout his life.
By initiating mushroom cultivation at his home in Khalihamari, he has not only revitalized his own prospects but also made a concerted effort to promote this low-cost, high-nutrition farming method in his community. His initiative has garnered attention from many in his vicinity, positioning him as a source of inspiration.
Pathak shared that he is currently producing between 12 to 15 kg of mushrooms daily, having launched this venture just a few months ago.
He has planted mushroom spawn in approximately 900 cylinders and is optimistic about significantly boosting production soon. His training in mushroom cultivation was provided by Pranjal Baruah from Rani, allowing him to master the technical nuances of this agricultural practice.
According to Pathak, one can start mushroom cultivation with an investment as low as Rs 30,000. The basic requirements include stored paddy straw, a room, iron cylinders for steaming, firewood, an electric machine for chopping straw, and a few manual water sprayers.
The cultivation process involves cutting paddy straw into small pieces, sterilizing them by steaming in bags, filling them into plastic packets, adding mushroom spawn, and placing them in a humid environment.
These packets, referred to as cylinders, begin yielding mushrooms within 20-25 days, with each packet producing crops four to five times. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is essential for successful mushroom farming.
Mushrooms grow rapidly and are harvested early in the morning. Currently, Pathak sells his mushrooms at Rs 150 per kg wholesale and Rs 200 per kg retail. He noted that fears and misconceptions surrounding mushrooms are fading, and with a growing awareness of health benefits, people are increasingly incorporating mushrooms into their diets. Consequently, he has faced no challenges in selling his produce, as market demand remains robust.
He sources his mushroom spawn from West Bengal and cultivates milky and oyster mushroom varieties, which are particularly well-suited to Assam's climate.
Due to the rising demand, his mushrooms are now distributed not only across various parts of Bajali district but also directly to local consumers.
In a time when the state is focused on combating unemployment through skill development and self-employment initiatives aligned with NEP 2020, Binay Pathak emerges as a role model. His hard work and determination have led him to self-reliance, demonstrating that with vision and dedication, even modest beginnings can pave the way for sustainable success.