On August 25, 2022, Don Bosco Tech Thakurmunda Center buzzed with excitement as Mr. Sunil Khuntia, a seasoned Junior Soil Conservation Officer from the Water Supply Department, Govt. of Odisha, graced the premises with his wealth of knowledge on mushroom cultivation. The occasion, meticulously organized for Batch-3 Accenture 12 students, proved to be an enlightening journey into the world of fungi.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from the domain trainer, Mr. Jagadish Prasad Swain, who set the stage for Mr. Khuntia's captivating discourse. As the guest lecturer took center stage, he captivated the audience with insights into the diverse array of mushrooms found across India. From the humble oyster mushroom to the coveted white button mushroom, Mr. Khuntia shed light on how these fungi serve as lucrative non-traditional cash crops, particularly in Odisha.

With eloquence, Mr. Khuntia underscored the symbiotic relationship between mushroom cultivation and societal needs. Not merely a source of income, mushroom farming emerged as a beacon of hope, offering employment opportunities to various segments of society, including small farmers, women, and unemployed youth. Moreover, he emphasized the nutritional significance of mushrooms in combating malnutrition, painting a picture of sustainability and livelihood enhancement.

Venturing deeper into the intricacies of mushroom cultivation, Mr. Khuntia elucidated on the fundamental inputs required for success: agro-wastes and labor. He championed the resourcefulness of our country in providing these essentials, advocating for the utilization of agricultural and forest residues to fuel mushroom growth. Stressing the importance of cultural practices, he highlighted the trifecta of Homogeneity, Hygiene, and Humidity as pillars of successful cultivation.

As the session unfolded, participants were encouraged to pose queries, sparking dynamic discussions on ventilation, humidity control, and temperature regulation in mushroom cultivation. Mr. Khuntia's sagely advice resonated with the audience, inspiring them to consider mushroom farming not just as a business venture but as a pathway to a sustainable future.

The culmination of the event was met with heartfelt gratitude as Mr. Khuntia graciously shared his expertise and imparted invaluable wisdom to the eager minds. Mr. Diganta Pattnaik, the support domain trainer, expressed sincere appreciation for the enlightening session, acknowledging Mr. Khuntia's dedication to educating and empowering the next generation of mushroom growers.

In retrospect, the guest lecture transcended mere instruction; it ignited a passion for innovation, sustainability, and community upliftment, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.