Why is Mushroom Farming Becoming a Popular Profession in Saharsa, Bihar?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mushroom farming is transforming women's lives in Saharsa.
- Government subsidies of up to 90 percent are available.
- Programs like Digital Sakhi and Jeevika Didi foster self-employment.
- A four-day training enhances skills in mushroom production.
- The initiative boosts local economies and farmer incomes.
Patna, Sep 9 (NationPress) Mushroom farming has quickly gained traction in the Saharsa district of Bihar, revolutionizing the lives of local women. With the government offering subsidies of up to 90 percent, villagers, particularly women, are seizing new job opportunities through this initiative.
Women such as Shashikala, Reena, and Priyanka are generating additional income, encouraging others, and enhancing rural employment within this ambitious program. Many women are turning to self-employment by engaging with Digital Sakhi and Jeevika Didi.
Shashikala Devi, a participant in the Jeevika Didi program, shared her experience, stating that she discovered the possibility of earning extra income by working part-time alongside her primary job.
A participant in the Digital Sakhi initiative mentioned, "The aim of acquiring mushroom training is to empower us to promote digital and financial literacy among women while also informing them about mushroom farming. This enables them to start their own businesses and sustain their livelihoods effectively in the future."
Priyanka Kumari, another Digital Sakhi member, recounted her journey: "I used to be a housewife with no additional activities, and my husband was unemployed. A friend involved with Digital Sakhi guided me to take the necessary steps. I took the exam, joined as a Digital Sakhi, began working, my children continued their studies, and I eventually started doing part-time jobs too..."
Sunita Paswan, Agricultural Scientist at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, highlighted the scheme, stating, "This training consists of a four-day certificate course on mushroom production and processing techniques. It aims to equip women with the knowledge to disseminate this technology at the grassroots level, demonstrating how to cultivate mushrooms, which are valuable for both health and international markets."
This mushroom farming initiative is creating self-employment opportunities for women and unemployed youth, while also increasing farmers' incomes due to rising market demand.