Mushroom farming opens new doors for women in MP's Mandla; how thousands of farmers will benefit from guaranteed procurement, training and support
A major initiative aimed at transforming rural livelihoods has been launched in MP's Mandla, where a landmark agreement was signed between Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Pilot Mushroom Farm Company at CMTC Bichhiya. The partnership is expected to benefit around 6,500 farmers in the Bichhiya and Mawai blocks by promoting commercial mushroom cultivation with assured market support.
SHG women will receive quality mushroom seeds and technical training
Under the agreement, SHG women will receive quality mushroom seeds, technical training and other essential inputs from the company, which will also purchase the harvested produce at fair prices. Collector Rahul Namdev Dhote said the initiative is designed to strengthen women's financial independence and help them become self-reliant through sustainable entrepreneurship.
Fresh seeds will be supplied free of cost if first crop suffers losses
Around 5,000 farmers from 10 villages in Bichhiya and 1,500 farmers in Mawai have been identified for the programme. Pilot Mushroom Farm representatives assured farmers that if the first crop suffers losses, fresh seeds would be supplied free of cost to encourage confidence among first-time growers.
Women entrepreneurs shared inspiring success stories
Women entrepreneurs shared inspiring success stories during the event. Sonia Maravi credited self-help groups for transforming her life, while Somti Dhurve revealed that an investment of about Rs 8,000 in mushroom cultivation earned her nearly Rs 15,000. Officials described the initiative as a significant step towards creating sustainable livelihoods and boosting rural incomes across the district.