Case Studies

sectors > Sustainable Livelihoods
A Mushroom Revolution
BIHAR

THE INITIATIVE

  • Encouraging innovative livelihood options

THE BENEFICIARIES

  • Small/marginal farmers and landless labourers of Jamui district, Bihar

THE CHALLENGE

  • Stress on traditional crops such as wheat and paddy
  • Financial exclusion and absence of agromarket dynamics
  • Encouraging capital formation activities in such an environment

THE SOLUTION

  • Cultivation and marketing of oyster mushrooms in Giddhaur block of Jamui district
  • NABARD sanctioned a project to the Social Action for Rural Development under which farmers were trained to cultivate and market oyster mushrooms for year-long income
  • Major efforts made to build the capacity of farmers
  • Support provided for seeds, working capital, shed construction and marketing

THE IMPACT

  • Over 150 beneficiaries now engaged in the activity throughout the year
  • Over beneficiaries now engaged in the activity throughout the year
  • Viable spawn centre in the village from where beneficiaries buy seeds
  • Assured market for mushrooms