Mushrooms, often hailed as a superfood, have seen a surge in demand globally due to their nutritional value and versatility in culinary applications. In India, the state leading the charge in mushroom production is Bihar. This article explores the factors contributing to this state’s dominance in mushroom farming, its impact on the local economy, and future prospects.
In India, mushroom cultivation primarily focuses on four varieties: button mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, paddy straw mushrooms, and milky mushrooms. Among these, button mushrooms dominate the sector, constituting approximately 75% of the country’s total mushroom output. Currently, India produces around 201,000 tons of mushrooms annually, making it the fifth-largest producer of mushrooms in the world.
According to the National Horticulture Board, Bihar has emerged as India’s top mushroom producer, with over 28,000 tonnes produced in 2021-22, accounting for 10.82% of the nation’s total. Last year, the state produced 23,000 tonnes. Remarkably, Bihar has risen from 13th place three years ago, surpassing Odisha to become the leading state in mushroom cultivation.
Bihar primarily produces button mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and milky mushrooms. These varieties are not only popular within the state but also have a high demand in national and international markets.
Mushroom cultivation has provided a significant boost to Bihar’s rural economy. It has created numerous job opportunities, from farming to packaging and distribution. Many small-scale farmers have seen a substantial increase in their income, improving their standard of living.
The future of mushroom cultivation in Bihar looks promising. With continuous government support, increased investment in infrastructure, and the adoption of modern farming techniques, Bihar is poised to maintain its position as the largest mushroom-producing state in India. Additionally, the rising global demand for mushrooms, driven by their nutritional and medicinal benefits, offers immense growth potential for Bihar’s mushroom industry.
The first newspaper in India, Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, was founded by James Augustus Hicky in…
Anousheh Ansari is an influential Iranian-American engineer, entrepreneur, and space traveler. Born on September 12,…
October, the tenth month of the year, is a month packed with globally significant days,…
Earth is set to welcome a temporary "mini-moon" in the form of a small asteroid…
On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism launched "Paryatan Mitra" and…
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) astronaut and Indian Origin Sunita Williams has officially taken…