Assessing the Technological Knowledge and Practices of Farmers on Mushroom Production: A Case Study in Assam

Abstract

Mushroom cultivation can support livelihood diversification, nutritional security and small-scale enterprise development in Assam. However, the effectiveness of mushroom production depends on farmers’ technological knowledge and their adoption of recommended cultivation, post-harvest and value-addition practices. This study assessed the technological knowledge and production practices of mushroom growers in Jorhat district, Assam. Data were collected from 60 mushroom farmers selected through snowball sampling from four villages during September and October 2021. A structured interview schedule was used to assess knowledge through 35 statements under seven major areas, including climatic requirements, substrate preparation, spawn quality, bag preparation, crop management, harvesting, post-harvest handling, value addition and nutritional aspects. Farmers’ practices were assessed using 24 statements categorised as complete, partial or no practice. The findings showed that 66.67% of respondents had a moderate level of technological knowledge, 23.33% had a high level and 10.00% had a low level. Respondents showed strong knowledge and adoption of core practices, including selection of suitable varieties, use of paddy straw as substrate, substrate preparation, spawn handling, bag preparation, incubation, hygiene maintenance and harvesting. However, adoption was weaker in post-harvest handling, refrigerated storage, packaging and value addition. Only 13.33% completely practised refrigerated storage for one week, while 83.34% did not use brown bags and 83.34% did not practise value addition. Targeted training in storage, packaging and value-added product preparation is therefore required.