For farmers, young people and aspiring entrepreneurs looking for a dependable source of income without large land or heavy investment, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) is offering a timely opportunity. Its Mushroom Research and Innovation Centre will hold a five-day, hands-on training programme on mushroom production from October 5 to 9, 2026. The aim is to equip participants with modern, science-based techniques so they can start their own ventures in the mushroom sector.
Prof. Sachin Gupta, In-charge of the Centre, said the programme will be held at the Centre on the SKUAST-Jammu campus. It will cover the cultivation of button, oyster and dhingri mushrooms, along with several speciality varieties. University scientists will combine expert lectures with practical training in production techniques, so that participants can begin work with confidence once the course ends.
The curriculum follows the entire production cycle. Participants will be trained in substrate preparation, spawning, crop management, harvesting and post-harvest handling, and pest and disease management. The course will also cover mushroom biology and production requirements, pasteurisation and disinfection techniques, and environment control. Special emphasis will be placed on value addition, helping growers earn better returns from their produce, and on entrepreneurial opportunities in the mushroom sector.
The programme is open to a wide range of participants, including farmers, students, rural youth, entrepreneurs, self-help groups, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), existing mushroom growers and aspiring entrepreneurs. The training fee is ₹3,000 per participant. To keep the sessions effective and personal, seats are limited to 20, so interested candidates are advised to register early. Participants who complete the training will receive certificates.
Prof. Gupta said mushroom production can generate additional income and self-employment even in limited space. He added that training in scientific methods and value addition can help farmers and young people build new enterprises in the sector.
