Mushroom Cultivation

• 13 Feb 2025

Why in News? 

Farmers in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir are leading an agricultural revolution by embracing mushroom cultivation, yielding remarkable results. This year, they have produced over 2,500 quintals of mushrooms, generating revenue of more than Rs 3.15 crore.  

 Key Points 

• Mushroom Farming Expansion: 
  • 1,220 mushroom growers in Udhampur have successfully cultivated nearly one lakh bags of mushrooms. 
  • The region has witnessed a significant expansion in mushroom farming. 
• Year-Round Cultivation and Profitability: 
  • Mushroom cultivation can be done year-round in controlled units, generating higher income during the off-season. 
  • The venture is highly lucrative and accessible with the right training and guidance. 
  • The ease of accessibility attracts many groups in agriculture to explore mushroom farming. 
  • The initiative has particularly empowered local women and elderly residents, offering them a new source of income. 
• Impact of Agricultural Initiatives: 
  • This highlights the effectiveness of targeted agricultural initiatives that create sustainable income opportunities for farmers. 
  • As the season progresses, Udhampur anticipates increased production and a significant boost in monetary returns for its farming community. 

 Mushrooms 

• About: 
  • Mushrooms are fungi that typically have a stem, a cap, and gills.  
  • They are classified as fungi because they lack chlorophyll and cannot produce their food through photosynthesis. 
  • Mushrooms, belonging to the fungi species, are a nutritious vegetarian delicacy and also possess several medicinal properties. 
  • They are a good source of high-quality protein, containing 20-35% protein by dry weight. 
• Varieties: 
  • Currently, three main varieties of mushrooms are cultivated: 
    • Button Mushroom 
    • Paddy-Straw Mushroom 
    • Oyster Mushroom