In an age when farming costs are rising and profits from traditional crops are dwindling, mushroom cultivation is proving to be a game changer for Indian farmers. Grown in a small, dark room at home, without fertile soil and without harsh sunlight, this crop is now known as "white gold."

According to recent reports, the government is offering up to 100 percent subsidies and free training to promote mushroom farming. If you too want to earn substantial profits within just 2 to 3 months with minimal space and minimal effort, this article will prove to be an excellent business guide for you. Let's learn how starting with just 10 bags can ensure you earn over ₹80,000.

Unique Benefits of Mushroom Farming

The greatest advantage of mushrooms is that they don't require acres of fertile land. They can be grown in any empty, closed, or dark room in your home. Instead of soil, this crop is grown on a mixture of straw and special fertilizer, eliminating the hassle of soil fertility.

Compared to traditional farming, it also requires much less physical labor. You don't need to plow in the scorching sun or irrigate for hours. Simply by creating an environment with controlled temperature and humidity, you can grow them year-round. Best of all, harvests begin within just 25 to 30 days of sowing the seeds, making it a crop that offers a quick return on investment.

Choice of varieties and technology

Agricultural experts believe that mushroom cultivation is a game of technique and patience. Given the high market demand, three varieties are considered the most profitable. The first is the button mushroom, which is most in demand in hotels and restaurants. The second is the oyster mushroom, which is the easiest to grow and costs less. The third is the milky mushroom, which yields a high yield even in the summer season.

Understanding the earnings equation, if a farmer starts with just 10 bags in a small area of ​​10x10 meters, he can easily earn up to 80,000 rupees. Once the seeds are sown, the crop can be harvested three to four times, eliminating the need for new investment each time.

Government subsidy will generate huge profits

Central and state governments are now generously providing grants to promote mushroom production as a cottage industry. If you want to start this business, lack of funds will no longer be a barrier:

• General and Backward Classes: Farmers from these categories are given 40 to 50 percent government subsidy for setting up mushroom units.
• Special provisions for Scheduled Castes: The government provides special benefits to Dalits and marginal farmers.
• Zero investment: Certain schemes run through the district horticulture department and village industries office offer 100% subsidies. This means you can lay the foundation for your startup without investing a dime.

How to start your unit

Mushroom cultivation is completely scientifically based, so the government not only provides funding but also provides training to become an expert. To receive grants and assistance, you'll need to submit documents like your Aadhaar card, bank passbook, and land details to your local horticulture department.

The department provides professional training to farmers in mushroom cultivation, compost preparation, and pest control. Upon completion, you receive a certificate that helps you obtain bank loans in the future. The government's goal is to have every farmer transform a small portion of their home into a profitable factory.