The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), West Tripura, under the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, successfully organized a three-day training program on “Mushroom Cultivation and Post-Harvest Processing” from 12th to 14th August 2024 at the KVK Belbari campus. This initiative was part of the 100 Days Action Plan and the Golden Jubilee celebrations, marking 50 years (1974-2024) of KVKs and ICAR RC for NEH Region.
        Aimed at empowering farmers and farm women with the skills needed to establish mushroom cultivation ventures, the training saw the participation of 20 trainees from across the district. The program covered comprehensive aspects of mushroom cultivation, from growing techniques to post-harvest management, and was delivered through hands-on sessions, demonstrations, and interactive discussions.
        The course was coordinated by Dr. Maibam Baby Devi, Subject Matter Specialist (Home Science), with support from Co-Course Coordinators Dr. Mandira Chakraborti, SMS (Agronomy), Mr. Debashis Datta, SMS (Agricultural Extension), and Dr. Nagaraju M.C., SMS (Agricultural Entomology).
        During the valedictory session, Dr. Ganesh Das, Senior Scientist-Cum-Head of KVK West Tripura, encouraged the participants to leverage their newly acquired skills to start their own mushroom enterprises. The session also featured Mr. Binoy Debbarma, a successful mushroom grower, who shared his insights and experiences as a master trainer.
        The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and essential inputs, including mushroom spawn, polybags, and plastic ropes, to the trainees. Feedback was also collected from the participants to further enhance future training programs. The presence of Mr. Nabin Roshan Lakra, Director of Oisho Bani Society (NGO), along with other officials, added significance to the valedictory program.