JAMMU, DECEMBER 11: Director of Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, conducted an inspection of the Shiitake spawn blocks at the Spawn Production Lab, Krishi Bhawan, Jammu. Approximately 1,000 Shiitake spawn blocks, which are ready-to-fruit, have been introduced at the lab as part of multi-location trials aimed at promoting the cultivation of this high-value Japanese-origin mushroom variety.
These spawn blocks have been provided through the Crop Diversification Promotion Project (JICA-ODA), in collaboration with the Shiitake Cultivation Training Centre at the Agriculture University Palampur. The trials will be conducted at multiple locations across Jammu Division, including the Shiitake lab at the Spawn Production Office, the Demonstration Cum Training Centre (DCTC) of Jammu Division, and among progressive mushroom growers across the region.
Having completed three years of successful trials, the Agriculture Department is now distributing Shiitake spawn blocks to DCTCs and progressive mushroom growers to facilitate the broader adoption of this high-value crop.
During his inspection, Director Arvinder Singh Reen emphasized the importance of this initiative in promoting crop diversification and empowering local farmers with sustainable and profitable agricultural practices. He explained that introducing Shiitake mushrooms would complement the existing varieties of Button, Dingri, and Milky mushrooms, diversifying farming systems and providing an additional high-value crop for local growers.
The Director further highlighted that the Shiitake mushroom cultivation project would offer farmers the opportunity for year-round production, ensuring continuous income and improved economic returns. This is particularly beneficial for small-scale mushroom growers, creating employment opportunities and supporting local economies.
Mushroom Development Officer Raghubir Pal Kochar, Spawn Production Officer Verinder Dogra, SMS-III Kewal Krishan Sharma, and staff from the Spawn Production Lab were present during the inspection.
Through initiatives like this, the Agriculture Department is fostering greater sustainability in Jammu’s agricultural sector, while offering farmers a new avenue for economic growth and diversification.