Gyalshing, Sikkim | 18 August 2026
A two-day training and demonstration programme on Oyster Mushroom Cultivation was organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), West Sikkim, in collaboration with 36 Battalion, SSB, Gyalshing, under the Civic Action Programme for border populations. The programme was sponsored by 36 BN, Gyalshing, and was conducted on 17 and 18 August 2026 at Upper Mukrung and Uttarey, Gyalshing District.
The programme aimed to create awareness among border communities about oyster mushroom cultivation as a low-cost, income-generating and sustainable livelihood technology that can be adopted using locally available agricultural resources.
A total of 70 beneficiaries participated and benefited from the two-day programme. Senior Scientist & Head, KVK, Bishon Pradhan delivered a brief overview of the importance, scope and economic potential of oyster mushroom cultivation, highlighting its suitability for small-scale household and community-level entrepreneurship.
The technical sessions included a practical demonstration of the complete mushroom cultivation process, beginning with the sterilisation of paddy straw, followed by spawning and bagging. Participants were also briefed on important post-harvest management practices, including proper handling and harvesting of mushrooms to maintain quality and improve returns.
For continued technical support, pamphlets containing step-by-step information on oyster mushroom cultivation were distributed among the participants. The programme concluded with the distribution of mushroom spawn, plastic bags, rubber bands and certificates to the beneficiaries, enabling them to initiate cultivation at their respective locations.
The programme was graced by Panchayat President , vice president, Principal, staff of Mukrung Sr.Sec School ,Asst. Commandant of 36 BN SSB, Gyalshing, along with officials and personnel from KVK and the battalion on 17th Aug 2026. On 18th Aug 2026, the program was graced by Dy. Commandant Sanjay Sharma, Incharge Inspector Ratan Singh, Head mistress of Shimook Pry.School and officials from KVK, Gyalshing. The collaborative initiative reflected the commitment of KVK and 36 BN, SSB towards strengthening livelihood opportunities and promoting sustainable income-generation activities among communities residing in the border areas of Sikkim.
