Mushroom Led Livelihood, Sundargarh, Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC), Odisha

Mushroom Led Livelihood, Sundargarh, Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC), Odisha

Problem

Widespread poverty
Lack of awareness
No livelihood opportunities
No avenues for capacity building
No financial support

Solution

Problem identification
Involvement and dialogue with the community
Programme formulation
Capacity building
Release of grant

Outcomes

Training and capacity building
Construction of mushroom sheds
Providing market linkages
Cold room facilities
Steady income

Project Details

Category: Livelihood
Project: Mushroom Led Livelihood, Sundargarh
Organisation: Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC), Odisha
Start Date: 2018
Website: https://www.ombadc.in/

Since 2018, the Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC) has been unwaveringly committed to the motto of “Tribal Welfare and Area Development.” This commitment is translated into action through a sustainable livelihoods approach, focusing on natural, human, social, financial, and physical resources. The aim is to foster inclusive growth in mineral-bearing areas, particularly in the districts of Sundergarh, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar.

Driving Livelihoods (Rs 696 cr budget)

OMBADC has rolled out 12 diverse livelihood projects, with a total budget of Rs 696 crores. The primary goal is to enhance the livelihoods and economic prospects of tribal communities affected by mining activities. Recognizing the significance of agriculture and horticulture, OMBADC is empowering these communities by investing directly in mining-affected villages.

Agriculture & Horticulture Focus

With 70% of the tribal population in mining districts residing in rural areas, OMBADC is channeling its efforts into agriculture and natural resources. Horticulture, in particular, emerges as a promising avenue, offering ample opportunities for agro industries that can generate substantial employment.

Integrated Farming Initiatives

Under the integrated farming umbrella, OMBADC has taken a proactive approach to train and encourage tribals in hybrid vegetable cultivation, mushroom farming, and banana cultivation. More than 10,000 beneficiaries have already reaped the rewards of this initiative. Around 4,500 farmers received training, and self-help groups (SHGs) have been formed, with 12 of them receiving grants to set up cold rooms with a 5 MT capacity.

Mushrooming Success Stories

One shining example is Bharathi Pruseth from Phuldhudi village in Sundergarh District. Engaged in mushroom cultivation for six years, Bharathi transformed her life, moving from paddy cultivation to cultivating 7 kg of mushrooms, fetching Rs 300/kg in the local market.

Ketaki Kalo’s Journey

Ketaki Kalo, another enthusiast from the same village, narrates how mushroom cultivation since 2018 has funded her children’s education, with one in college studying Zoology and another in 12th grade. She ingeniously uses mushroom waste for vermicompost, creating a sustainable loop for improved soil quality.

Kamala Pradhan’s Story

Inspired by the success of others, Kamala Pradhan took up mushroom cultivation. With training and a Rs 2 lakh grant, she now cultivates paddy straw mushrooms and oyster mushrooms, doubling her earnings over the last five years and even building a pucca house.

Collective Empowerment

OMBADC’s encouragement extends to the formation of SHGs, empowering women to venture into collective mushroom cultivation. Groups like Maa Tarini SHG and Kalpana Mahanta’s group have found financial security through this initiative, earning up to Rs 2,000 and Rs 1,500 per month, respectively.

In every mushroom harvested, OMBADC’s commitment to transforming livelihoods and fostering sustainable development is evident, one success story at a time. The journey from traditional farming to mushroom cultivation is not just a change in vocation but a testament to the resilience and potential of tribal communities in Odisha.