Mushrooms grow quickly and can adapt to different climates, making them a good option for both rural and urban areas. (Inset) A mushroom grower tends to his mushroom culture area in the Bhangar Pool area of Hathazari. Photo: messenger
Farmers in Hathazari, Chattogram are finding financial success through mushroom cultivation, attracting numerous entrepreneurs due to its burgeoning market demand.
Given the challenges of traditional farming and changing climate conditions, growing mushrooms offers a good chance for farmers to expand and reach new markets. Mushrooms grow quickly, can adapt to different climates, don't need much money to start, and can be grown in small spaces, making them a good option for both rural and city areas.
One such individual, Md. Shahajalal of Bhangar Pool area in Hathazari municipality, drew inspiration from a national media figure, Shaikh Siraj, while residing in the Middle East. Motivated by a report on mushroom cultivation, Shahajalal returned to Bangladesh in 2008, underwent a 3-day training at the Upazila Agricultural Institute, and initiated mushroom farming with an initial investment of ten thousand taka. Seeking further expertise, he pursued a 2-month training program at the Savar Mushroom Institute, Dhaka, following which he joined the Krishi Agriculture Institute as a technician.
Subsequently, Shahajalal transitioned from his technician role, constructed a 700-square-foot facility at his residence, and professionally ventured into mushroom cultivation. He later established the Mushroom Farm and Dairy organization, which now boasts a capital exceeding Tk 10 lakh. Presently, Shahajalal reaps monthly earnings ranging from 40,000 to 50,000 taka from his mushroom enterprise.
Expressing his dedication to mushroom cultivation, Shahajalal remarked, "After acquiring training, I commenced mushroom farming with minimal funds. Subsequently, with the encouragement of Upazila Agriculture Officer Al Mamun Sikder, I embraced mushroom cultivation as a full-fledged profession. Presently, mushroom cultivation is recognized as a lucrative occupation, offering lower risk compared to poultry business and ensuring greater returns with reduced investment."
In response, Upazila Agriculture Officer Al Mamun Sikder highlighted the transformation of mushrooms from being colloquially referred to as "frog's umbrella" in village Bengal to an essential food item. He emphasized the nutritional value of mushrooms and lauded Shahajalal as a successful cultivator. With its low associated risks, mushroom cultivation has now enticed thousands to adopt it as their chosen profession.
Al Mamun Sikder, in turn, has been a strong advocate for mushroom cultivation, recognizing its nutritional value and the low-risk, high-profit potential it offers. He has witnessed the transformation of mushrooms from being considered a rural delicacy to a mainstream food item. This shift has opened up new opportunities for thousands of people to engage in mushroom cultivation as a profitable profession.
Mushroom cultivation in Hathazari has not only provided financial stability to farmers but has also become a symbol of hope for the region's economic development.
The success stories of farmers like Shahajalal are a beacon of hope for others in the region. They demonstrate that with the right training, dedication, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, financial stability and success can be achieved. The mushroom cultivation industry in Hathazari is not only thriving but also serves as a model for sustainable and profitable agriculture.
In essence, mushroom farming isn't just a passing trend—it's a growing industry that could significantly change the country's economic future. This shift in agriculture is gaining traction and providing new opportunities for earning income, especially for small-scale farmers and rural areas.
Messenger/Faria
