Economic Empowerment through Mushroom Production
The journey of Mr. Chakan Boro, mushroom entrepreneur and master trainer
Abstract
This success story traces the inspiring journey of Mr. Chakan Boro, a landless farmer from Udalguri district of Assam who found prosperity in mushroom cultivation after repeated setbacks in traditional farming. Starting with very little money, he built a profitable mushroom unit in a small space at his home. Through perseverance, innovation and support from KVK Udalguri and other government institutions, he transformed his life and became well known in Udalguri and neighbouring districts. Today his determination and sustainable practices inspire aspiring farmers across the region.
- Keywords:
- Mushroom
- KVK Udalguri
- Entrepreneurship
- Sustainable farming
The Beginning
Mr. Chakan Boro, a 51-year-old landless farmer of Balisiha village, Udalguri, learned that mushroom cultivation was an economical and practical option. Seeing its market potential, he began small-scale oyster mushroom cultivation in 2012. The returns were good and came quickly compared with other enterprises, so in 2013 he and his wife set up Chakradhar Mushroom Industry, registered with the District Industries and Commerce Centre (DICC), Udalguri.
The Turning Point
In 2014, he attended a vocational training programme conducted by SBI RSETI in collaboration with KVK Udalguri, and from then on he received regular technical guidance from the KVK. He was one of the beneficiaries of KVK Udalguri’s frontline demonstrations on oyster mushroom production technology, held at five locations in the district, and the KVK encouraged him to take part in district-level exhibitions.
- 2012Started small-scale oyster mushroom cultivation at home
- 2013Set up Chakradhar Mushroom Industry with his wife, registered with DICC Udalguri
- 2014Vocational training by SBI RSETI with KVK Udalguri; beneficiary of KVK frontline demonstrations
- 2022Received farmer’s fellowship from Biotech Kisan Hub, Bodoland University
Activities and Approach
Today his unit produces several kinds of mushroom:
- Oyster (summer)
- Oyster (winter)
- Shiitake
- Milky
- Paddy straw
Ready-to-Fruit Beds
Sells innovative ready-to-fruit mushroom beds besides regular production.
Value Addition
Produces fresh mushroom and value-added products under the Biotech Kisan Hub programme.
Zero Waste
Uses spent mushroom substrate to produce vermicompost.
Master Trainer
Trains mushroom growers and serves as a resource person for various organisations.
Spawn Supply
Sources and supplies mushroom spawn to farmers across the district.
Market Linkage
Buys produce from neighbouring growers in bulk and sells it in distant markets.
Economic Impact
Mushroom farming has given Mr. Boro a steady and rewarding livelihood, with a net income of Rs 1,76,775 a year and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.81.
Impact on Fellow Farmers
Mr. Boro’s success reaches well beyond his own farm. More than 350 farmers have benefited from his training, spawn supply and guidance. By procuring neighbouring growers’ produce in bulk and selling it in distant markets, he has solved a major marketing problem for small producers. His example has encouraged many farmers to take up mushroom-based enterprises, and several of them are now running successful businesses of their own.
Recognition
Future Plans and Conclusion
Building on his spawn production training, Mr. Boro now plans to produce mushroom spawn himself, so that he and fellow growers have a reliable local supply. His journey from a landless farmer to a recognised mushroom entrepreneur shows how determination, combined with sustained support from KVK Udalguri and other institutions, can create lasting livelihoods and inspire an entire community.
