Is Doda Becoming a Major Hub for Mushroom Cultivation?

Synopsis
The Agricultural Department's training program aims to empower over 50 women in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, by equipping them with vital skills in mushroom production. This initiative under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program is set to transform the agricultural landscape, fostering economic independence and sustainability in rural areas.
Key Takeaways
- Over 50 women are being trained in mushroom production.
- The training is part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP).
- Women will gain skills to become self-reliant in mushroom businesses.
- Subsidies are available for those starting mushroom setups.
- The HADP includes 29 projects aimed at improving the agricultural economy.
Jammu, June 3 (NationPress) In an effort to establish Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda as a prominent hub for mushroom cultivation, the Agricultural Department is providing training to over 50 women under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP).
The Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) is a key initiative by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape through innovation and inclusivity.
All participants in this training are affiliated with the Jammu Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission. The program's goal is to empower women with essential skills in mushroom production, fostering self-reliance in business.
A few beneficiaries shared their thoughts with IANS regarding this initiative.
Priyanka Chib, a resident of Doda, stated, “For the first time, training is being provided by the Agriculture Department of Doda. Through this program, we are gaining valuable insights that will aid our business. Specifically, the women receiving training will initiate their own mushroom enterprises and begin generating income from it.”
Susheel Razdan, an official involved with the training initiative, mentioned that under the HADP scheme, all these women are receiving training, and the department is also offering subsidies for those wishing to establish their mushroom setups in Doda. Many large mushroom operations are already in place, and now women are stepping up to take the lead.
Chief Agriculture Officer Doda, Amjad Hussain Malik, expressed, “Numerous schemes within the Agriculture Department are benefiting our community. Today, we trained unemployed women so they can start their own businesses and earn income through these initiatives.”
The HADP scheme encompasses 29 projects across agriculture, horticulture, livestock, and research & development, aiming to improve productivity, empower farmers, and stimulate the regional economy. This program seeks to reshape the agricultural economy of Jammu and Kashmir by advocating for sustainability and commercial viability through 75 schemes.