HT Bureau
DIPHU, June 10: A one-day training-cum-awareness programme on mushroom cultivation and preparation of pickles and ginger-based products was held on Tuesday at the Assam Hills Small Industries Development Corporation Ltd. (AHSIDC) Industrial Complex, Manja.
Organized by AHSIDC in collaboration with various line departments of the Government of Assam, the event forms part of a month-long skill development initiative focused on rubber plantation, self-employment, startup policies, tourism promotion, village industries, and scientific cultivation of betel nuts, fruit trees, and aromatic crops for essential oil production.
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The programme was inaugurated by Additional Deputy Commissioner Dipankar Borah, and attended by AHSIDC Managing Director Dhonsing Lekthe and Demonstration Officer (Agriculture Department) Bandana Saikia.
In the first session, Gaurango Chetia, Agriculture Development Officer (ADO) of Rongmongve Block, conducted a detailed session on mushroom cultivation. He explained the step-by-step process starting from paddy straw preparation—which includes cutting, soaking, boiling, and layering with mushroom spawn in polythene bags. These bags, he said, are to be stored in a dark room for seven days, with regular sprinkling of water to maintain moisture. He also advised participants to isolate bags that develop green or blue discoloration to prevent fungal contamination. Mushroom growth is typically visible within 2–3 weeks.
The second session, led by Prodip Bey, Supervisor of the Demonstration Officer Community Canning & Training Centre (DOCC&TC), focused on the making of fruit juices, squashes, and mixed pickles. Bey elaborated on the use of sweeteners, preservatives, flavour enhancers for fruit juice, and citric acid, vinegar, oil, and salt for pickles. A hands-on practical session demonstrated the complete process to the trainees.
The training saw enthusiastic participation from over 80 individuals, including youths, housewives, and farmers. Among the attendees was Jiten Sarphongsa, Director of Jirsong Agro Producer, who also runs an agro-based unit at Manja.
This initiative aims to empower rural communities with sustainable livelihood opportunities through practical training in agro-processing and allied activities.
