CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A week-long skill development program on “Mushroom Cultivation and Entrepreneurship Development,” organized by the Microbiology Department of Barkatullah University, Bhopal, concluded today with a closing ceremony.
The primary objective of the program was to introduce students, researchers, and farmers to modern techniques of mushroom cultivation, its nutritional benefits, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The program began with a welcome address by Anita Tilwari, Head of the Department. She highlighted the benefits of mushroom cultivation, stating, “Mushrooms are not only beneficial for nutrition and health but are also economically rewarding. They are a rich source of protein, Vitamin D, antioxidants, and minerals.”
She emphasized that mushroom cultivation is environmentally beneficial, as the leftover waste from production can be used to prepare vermicompost, an essential component of organic farming.
The Chief Guest, I.K. Mansuri, Registrar of Barkatullah University, inspired the students and participants, saying, “Mushroom cultivation is crucial for environmental balance and sustainable agriculture. Such training programs not only support skill development but also inspire students toward entrepreneurship.” He quoted scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, saying that failures teach us that perseverance and dedication are essential for success.
Dr. Ragini Gothalwal, Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences, stated, “To increase mushroom consumption and turn it into an effective business, students need to learn and implement their knowledge. This training is not just a means of skill development but also a pathway to adopting it as an income-generating model.”
Dr. Vivek Sharma, Director, CRIM, encouraged participants, saying, “Success in mushroom cultivation requires hard work and commitment. This training inspires youth and farmers to become self-reliant.”
Dr. Vipin Vyas, Head of the Department of Applied Aquaculture and Zoology, Barkatullah University, was present as a special guest. In his address, he emphasized the importance of mushroom cultivation for environmental balance and sustainable agriculture.
During the program, participants shared their experiences on stage. They expressed that the training helped them understand the entire process of mushroom production practically.
One participant said, “We learned about compost preparation, spawns, bag preparation, and all the critical stages of mushroom cultivation. This has been an enlightening and inspiring experience for us.”
The program’s trainers included Neelam Bisen, Jitendra Malviya, Bindu Nahar, Shailja Sharma, Madhuri Shinde, and Neha Paliwal, who played a vital role in providing participants with detailed knowledge and hands-on training for all stages of mushroom production.
The program was skillfully hosted by Neelam Bisen, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Jitendra Malviya. A total of 150 trainees participated in the program.
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