Mushroom Revolution” Empowering Baiga Women: A Success Story in Mushroom Cultivation“
In Dindori, Madhya Pradesh, a transformative initiative has empowered Baiga women through mushroom cultivation. Once reliant on slash-and-burn agriculture and forest resources, the Baiga community faced economic hardship and limited market access. LEDP project was launched under NABARD “Mushroom Collection and Cultivation” to train 150 women from 05 villages in modern mushroom cultivation techniques, providing them with the necessary skills, infrastructure, and market linkages. With year-round production of oyster mushrooms, these women now earn an additional ₹ 5,000 annually per household. The initiative has significantly improved their income, nutrition, and confidence, showcasing the power of sustainable livelihoods to uplift marginalized communities.