Farmers in Kailali turn to commercial mushroom farming for higher income

Attariya: Farmers in Kailali are increasingly turning to commercial mushroom farming, drawn by the higher income potential compared to other agricultural practices.

Mangal Chaudhary, a farmer from Jokaiya, Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City-11, has achieved notable success in commercial mushroom farming. Operating under the Subhash Multi-Purpose Agriculture Firm, Chaudhary started mushroom farming with an initial investment of Rs 60,000 and one tunnel four years ago. Today, he manages five tunnels dedicated to mushroom production.

Chaudhary shared that he saves approximately Rs 600,000 in six months after expenses by selling mushrooms produced in the winter season. "I grow 'King Oyster' mushrooms for six months during the winter," he explained. These mushrooms are sold for Rs 200 to 250 per kilogram, with daily sales reaching 70 to 80 kilograms.

Despite the relatively low investment cost, Chaudhary noted that mushroom farming demands significant effort. "The income has supported my family of four, helped cover household expenses, and enabled me to purchase equipment like a straw-cutting machine and mini mushrooms for farming expansion," he said.

Similarly, Rajkumari Chaudhary from Godavari Municipality-8, Phakalpur, has embraced commercial mushroom farming. Annually, she saves Rs 200,000 after deducting expenses. She emphasized the profitability of mushroom farming within a short period. "There is a strong market demand for mushrooms, but meeting this demand remains challenging," she added.

Both farmers highlight mushroom farming as a lucrative venture, providing a sustainable income and encouraging other farmers to explore this agricultural practice.