Wednesday, 17 August 2022 | PNS | Dehradun
The Nainital district administration will set up air conditioned units and compost units in 10 villages of Bhimtal block to provide the suitable growing conditions for mushroom cultivation in the area. The administration is planning to spend about Rs two crore to provide necessary facilities for the mushroom cultivation in the block. Last year, the administration developed two villages-Hedia and Lweshal in Bhimtal as mushroom villages under National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and about 300 local women and four village organisations (VOs) have been involved in the cultivation under several self-help groups (SHGs). However, these women have been facing certain challenges in cultivating these mushrooms throughout the year to make it a financially successful venture. The chief development officer (CDO) Sandeep Tiwari, who initiated this programme, told The Pioneer that usually a temperature ranging from 14 to 24 degree Celsius must be maintained for cultivation of mushrooms and
Bhimtal and the nearby area have suitable temperatures during winter. However, it becomes a challenge to maintain that environment during other months of the year. He said, “Such factors affect the production of mushrooms as well as bring down the morale of those locals who are involved in the cultivation. In order to tackle these issues, we will set up air conditioned units in 10 villages to maintain the suitable temperature required for the cultivation throughout the year. Since access to the compost required for mushroom cultivation is also an issue, we will also establish compost units across the Bhimtal block.”
He said that the administration has already selected lands in three villages to set up the units. The administration will possibly spend about Rs two crore to set up these units and provide other necessary facilities for mushroom cultivation, added Tiwari.
