As part of its ongoing efforts to promote skill development and livelihood generation among peripheral communities, SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), organised a two-day training programme on mushroom cultivation for poor and underprivileged beneficiaries from peripheral villages on 28th and 29th October 2026.
A total of 20 participants from Lungei and Chikatmati Gram Panchayats of Lathikata block attended the training that was designed to equip the beneficiaries with practical skills and knowledge to take up mushroom cultivation as a viable income-generating activity.
The programme covered various aspects of mushroom cultivation, including introduction to mushroom farming, mushroom biology and growth cycles, substrate preparation using paddy straw and other materials, sterilisation techniques, cultivation methods, environmental management with emphasis on temperature and humidity control, post-harvest management, economics and marketing.
The training featured both theoretical sessions and hands-on practical demonstrations conducted by Smt. Kamala Toppo, certified mushroom cultivation trainer, and Shri Gokul Minz, Consultant, NIT Rourkela.
In the valedictory programme Mr. Bivabasu Malik, GM (CSR), addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of livelihood-oriented skill development initiatives in empowering rural communities. Beneficiaries also shared their experiences and learning from the training programme. Mr. S. K. Deo, GM (TS), attended the programme as the Special Guest and distributed the certificates to the beneficiaries. Mr. R. S. Bara, DGM (CSR) welcomed the gathering. Mr. S. K. Sukula, DM (CSR) proposed a vote of thanks.
