10/06/2026
SAIL, RSP nurtures entrepreneurship amongst peripheral populace through Mushroom Cultivation
SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), is sowing the seeds of entrepreneurship in peripheral villages by empowering residents with the expertise to start their own mushroom business. It is noteworthy that, Mushroom cultivation is one of the most profitable, low-capital, and sustainable agribusiness ventures today.
During 2025-26, the CSR Department of RSP organized a series of Mushroom Cultivation Training Programmes at the Institute for Peripheral Development (IPD), benefiting about 80 villagers from Bisra, Nuagaon and Lathikata Blocks. The participants, who were trained in Dhingri (Oyster) Mushroom cultivation, in different batches, belonged to villages including Barkani, Bondamunda RS Colony, Dumerta, Cinema Toli, Bispur, Kundra, Chuabahal, Ghodabandha, Limda, Khairtola, Tangarpalli, Madhupur, Nuagaon and Patua.
During the two days training programme participants were introduced to various aspects of mushroom cultivation, including selection of raw materials, preparation of growing medium, spawning techniques, maintenance of temperature and humidity, pest management, harvesting methods and post-harvest handling. Beyond classroom sessions, the trainees received practical demonstrations and hands-on exposure, enabling them to gain confidence in undertaking cultivation independently. Mr. T. Vengra and Ms. Kamala Toppo were the Master Trainers of the program. To ensure that learning translated into action, each trainee was provided with a self-made mushroom growing kit bag and a bottle containing 200 grams of mushroom seed. Certificates were also distributed on successful completion of the programme.
The impact was visible soon after the training. Equipped with the skills and starter kits, the trainees cultivated mushrooms in their homes and collectively produced over 100 kilograms of mushrooms during the year. The produce was consumed by the families as well as sold in local communities spreading awareness about the nutritional benefits and potential of mushroom business. For many, the acquired skill has now become a starting point for business ventures.