CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Department of Biotechnology at Sant Hirdaram Girls College, Bhopal, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (MPCST), Bhopal, successfully organized a seven-day training program on the theme “Science for Socio-Economic Development through Mushroom Cultivation: Skill and Start-up Potential.” The primary objective of the program was to strengthen skill development, entrepreneurial spirit, and practical knowledge among students.
On the first day, Dr. Mukul Kumar (Scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Raisen) delivered a detailed lecture on the importance of mushrooms, major species, nutritional value, market potential, and modern scientific methods of cultivation. He also provided hands-on knowledge by demonstrating the practical process of substrate material sterilization.
On the second day, Sandhya Sahu (Founder, Green Agro Solutions, Mandideep) conducted an intensive practical training session on oyster mushroom cultivation. She gave live demonstrations on substrate filling, layering techniques, hygiene standards, and moisture management, highlighting key technical aspects.
On the third day, a special session on training report writing was conducted by Dr. Divya Patel. This was followed by a guidance session by Dr. Shazia Khan on career opportunities in the field of biotechnology, national and international competitive examinations, and internship programs at IISER and IISc. On the same day, students also performed hands-on practice of bag filling.
On the fourth and fifth days, Dr. Ashish Shrivastava (Agricultural Scientist, College of Agriculture, Ganjbasoda) delivered an in-depth lecture on spawn preparation, necessary precautions, harvesting, marketing strategies, and the complete process of button mushroom cultivation. Students practiced spawn bag preparation and other essential aseptic techniques. Subsequently, under the guidance of Ms. Megha Khare (Assistant Professor, Department of Agriculture, RKDF University), participants undertook an educational visit to Sumitra Farms, Tumda, where they closely observed various agricultural activities and the operational processes of commercial-scale mushroom production. This visit proved highly beneficial in familiarizing students with real-life business and entrepreneurship management.
A total of 55 students from PM College of Excellence, Chandrashekhar Azad PG College; Saifia Science College; Government Maharani Laxmibai PG Autonomous College; and Sant Hirdaram Girls College participated enthusiastically in the program.
The college management and the Principal congratulated all the expert guest speakers, program coordinators Dr. Shazia Khan and Dr. Divya Patel, volunteers, the technical team, and supporting members for the successful organization of the program.
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