Don Bosco Tech Thakurmunda Center had the privilege of hosting an insightful guest lecture on the significance of mushroom cultivation and its potential as a source of income. The lecture, held on December 2, 2023, catered to the inquisitive minds of Batch-7 students from Accenture 2023–24 and featured Mr. Sukanta Kumar Sahoo, the esteemed Project Coordinator of the Odisha Forestry Sector Development Society (OFSDS).

The session commenced with a warm welcome extended by Mr. Sarat Chandra Tripathy, the Center Head, along with Mr. Jagadish Prasad Swain, the Domain Trainer. Mr. Tripathy introduced and invited Mr. Sukanta Kumar Sahoo to share his expertise.

Mr. Sahoo captivated the audience by underscoring the nutritional value of mushrooms, shedding light on their rich assortment of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Emphasizing their low-calorie, high-protein composition, he elucidated how mushrooms serve as a healthy dietary option, contributing significantly to the burgeoning global demand.

A focal point of the lecture was the economic significance of mushroom cultivation. Mr. Sahoo elaborated on the relatively minimal initial investment required for mushroom farming compared to conventional agricultural practices. He highlighted how mushroom cultivation, with its minimal space and resource requirements, presents an accessible opportunity for individuals, including small-scale farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Further, Mr. Sahoo delved into the environmental benefits of mushroom cultivation, accentuating its role in fostering sustainable agriculture. Expounding on mushrooms' ability to recycle agricultural and industrial waste into nutrient-rich substrates, he underscored the eco-friendly nature of this practice, aligning with the global shift towards sustainability.

The session proved to be an invaluable learning experience for the students. Mr. Sahoo graciously addressed numerous queries, offering real-world insights that left a lasting impression on the eager participants.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Sahoo encouraged the trainees to consider mushroom cultivation as a viable business opportunity, imparting invaluable advice for their future endeavors. The session concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed by Mr. Sarat Chandra Tripathy and Mr. Jagadish Prasad Swain for Mr. Sahoo's invaluable contribution in enlightening and inspiring the students.