A five-day training programme on ‘PGR conservation awareness-cum-entrepreneurship development on mushroom cultivation’ was successfully conducted from March 10–14, 2025. The program was jointly organized by ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, under the NEH Sub-plan, in collaboration with ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Phek, which operates under the administrative control of ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland. The initiative witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 150 farmers from various parts of Phek District. The primary objective of the training was to educate farmers on diverse edible mushroom species, provide hands-on training in mushroom cultivation techniques, promote mushroom farming as a sustainable income-generating activity, and create awareness regarding safe mushroom identification. During the inaugural session, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK Phek, welcomed the participants and underscored the significance of conserving plant genetic resources for sustainable agriculture while fostering entrepreneurship in mushroom farming. Dr. Jameel Akhtar, Principal Scientist & Training Coordinator, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the crucial role of NBPGR in the identification, collection, and conservation of PGRs across the nation. The training featured a series of technical sessions delivered by experts in the field. Dr. Jameel Akhtar delivered comprehensive lectures on mushroom cultivation, covering key aspects such as the importance and utility of mushrooms, button mushroom cultivation techniques, and pest and disease management in mushroom farming. Mr. Kelhouzakie Chielie, SDHO and Officer-in-Charge of the Horticulture Research Farm, Pfutsero, conducted practical demonstrations on oyster mushroom cultivation, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience. Dr. Sharanappa C. H., SMS (Plant Protection), elaborated on the production technology of Shiitake mushrooms, while Dr. Venkatesh, SMS (Agricultural Engineering), shared insights on value addition in mushroom products. Additionally, Dr. T. Esther Longkumer, CTO (Soil Science), elucidated the composting process for mushroom substrates, and Dr. Hannah K. Asangla, CTO (Agronomy), spoke on income-generating activities in mushroom farming. This event also facilitated interactive farmer-scientist sessions, allowing participants to seek clarifications and adopt best practices in mushroom cultivation. At the conclusion of each day’s sessions, certificates were awarded to participants, along with materials required to initiate mushroom cultivation and other agricultural inputs provided under the NEH Sub-plan. The training programme concluded with a valedictory function on March 14, 2025. The program effectively disseminated knowledge on mushroom cultivation, empowering farmers with self-sustaining skills and promoting mushroom farming as a viable entrepreneurial opportunity in Nagaland. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to livelihood security and agricultural diversification in the region.
