Bhubaneswar: Once known for large-scale migration in search of employment, Radhamohanpur village in Odisha’s Ganjam district has transformed into a thriving centre of rural entrepreneurship through mushroom cultivation. Located in Chikiti block, the village has earned recognition as “India’s Mushroom Village” for its remarkable success in the sector.
More than 60 families in the village are engaged in mushroom farming, collectively producing and supplying over four tonnes of mushrooms every day to markets across southern Odisha, including Berhampur, Koraput and Jeypore. In addition, around 10 to 12 families are involved in mushroom spawn production, generating sustainable livelihoods for nearly 70 households.
The transformation began in 2012 after local farmers underwent training at agricultural institutions and adopted scientific cultivation practices. Oyster mushrooms have since become the village’s primary crop due to strong market demand and favourable growing conditions.
Women have played a pivotal role in the success of the initiative, actively participating in mushroom cultivation, harvesting, processing and marketing, contributing significantly to household incomes.
Villagers attribute the success of the movement to the late Shantimohan Pattnaik, who played a key role in encouraging and guiding farmers to adopt mushroom cultivation as a sustainable livelihood.
With demand continuing to grow, farmers are now seeking greater financial assistance and institutional support to expand production, improve infrastructure and strengthen market access.
-OdishaAge
