Regional Centre for Training and Production of Mushroom is a state scheme under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya. It trains farmers in modern mushroom cultivation methods and supplies quality spawn (seeds) and pasteurized compost at subsidized rates, and in 2026 the department is continuing these training sessions across all districts of the state.
The centre was set up in February 1982 at the Agricultural Complex, Upper Shillong, with support from the North Eastern Council. It focuses on two mushroom varieties with the best market potential, white button mushroom (Agaricus spp) and Dhingri or oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp), and also helps growers with dehydration and marketing.
Regional Centre for Training and Production of Mushroom - Overview
Meghalaya's climate suits mushroom farming well, and homestead cultivation is becoming popular because of good yield and decent prices. The centre at Upper Shillong is now concentrating more on Dhingri or oyster mushroom because dehydration technology for it is simple and cheap, while button mushroom needs costly canning. The state produces about 5 metric tonnes of fresh mushroom every year, with the main production season between March and October.
Farmers identified as trained growers are present across Meghalaya, and the centre regularly organizes training sessions in villages of all districts. Along with training, the scheme gives good quality spawn and sterilized compost so that farmers can start or expand mushroom production at home. Similar state schemes such as Vegetable Development Scheme and Plant Protection Scheme also support horticulture farmers in Meghalaya.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Regional Centre for Training and Production of Mushroom |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Meghalaya |
| Category | Agriculture, Rural & Environment |
| Main Department | Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya |
| Main Benefit | 50% subsidy on spawn and compost, plus training |
| Financial Support | ₹22,000 per unit at 50% in West Garo Hills |
| Application Mode | Offline on plain paper |
| Official Website | megagriculture.gov.in |
Benefits
Farmers can get support in these ways under the scheme:
| Feature | Quantum of Support |
|---|---|
| Sale of button and oyster spawns | 50% subsidy |
| Sale of pasteurized compost | 50% subsidy |
| Construction of compost shed | 50% support |
| Financial support per unit (West Garo Hills) | ₹22,000 at 50% |
For example, if a farmer builds a compost shed, the farmer pays only half the cost and the government bears the other half. Spawns and compost are sold at half price at the Mushroom Development Centre, Upper Shillong.
Eligibility
Farmers who want to join the scheme must meet these conditions:
- Applicant should be a permanent resident of Meghalaya and a bonafide farmer engaged in agriculture.
- Applicant should own land or hold a lease for a plot of at least 0.2 hectares.
- Selection is done on a first come first serve basis, so applying early is advised.
Application Process
Application for this scheme is offline. Farmers do not need to visit any online portal for registration. Here are the simple steps:
STEP 1 - Write an application on plain paper stating your interest to take part in the mushroom scheme. Mention your name, village, land details and the training or material you need.
STEP 2 - Collect copies of all required documents and self-attest them where needed. Keep your passport-size photograph, identity proof and land papers ready.
STEP 3 - Submit the signed application along with the documents to the nearest Horticulture Development Officer at your Community Development Block, Horticulture Circle or the District Horticulture Office.
STEP 4 - Local officials review your request and select bonafide and progressive farmers on a first come first serve basis. For updates, contact the District Horticulture Officer or the Assistant Director of Horticulture (Mushroom) at Upper Shillong.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before applying:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Valid identity proof such as voter ID, Aadhaar or any government ID
- Bank passbook or official account details for receiving the subsidy
- Land ownership or lease papers showing at least 0.2 hectares
- Any other supporting papers asked by the department
References
Official sources for the scheme are given below:
- Official scheme page for Regional Centre for Training and Production of Mushroom
- Mushroom cultivation details by Department of Agriculture, Meghalaya
- HortiHub scheme factsheet PDF from Meghalaya Agriculture
- District Horticulture Officer contact list
FAQ's
What is the main aim of the scheme?
The main aim is to train farmers in mushroom cultivation and supply quality spawn and pasteurized compost at a 50% subsidy so that mushroom production grows in Meghalaya.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya manages the scheme through the Mushroom Development Centre at Upper Shillong.
What support is available under the scheme?
Farmers get a 50% subsidy on spawns and compost, 50% support for compost shed construction, and financial support of ₹22,000 per unit at 50% in West Garo Hills.
Who can apply for this mushroom scheme?
Bonafide farmers who are permanent residents of Meghalaya and own or lease at least 0.2 hectares of land can apply.
How can I apply for the scheme?
You should submit an application on plain paper to your nearest Horticulture Development Officer or the District Horticulture Office. The process is offline.
What is the selection procedure?
Authorities select bonafide and progressive farmers on a first come first serve basis.