Motapung Village, Assam | A small investment in mushroom cultivation is starting to generate income and strengthen local entrepreneurship.
When our team visited Motapung Village, we saw firsthand how focused training and timely support can change the direction of a community.
After receiving training and in-kind assistance from ADRA, nine beneficiaries began mushroom cultivation. Today, seven of them have already started earning from it. The economics are simple and encouraging. An investment of INR 28 in raw materials brings a return of INR 400, leaving behind INR 372 as profit. For rural households, that margin makes a difference.
Mrs. Mital’s progress stood out during the visit. She was managing her harvest with her baby on her back, moving confidently through the process. She has already generated Rs. 3,800 in sales. Her results have drawn attention in the village, and others are now exploring the same opportunity.
Not every experience was smooth. Two participants faced crop failure in their first attempt. Instead of stepping away, they worked with the team to understand the cause. Through video analysis and onsite inspection, the problem was identified as Trichoderma fungus linked to storage conditions. With this knowledge, they are now preparing their spaces properly and planning their next cycle.
This matters for several reasons.
First, the model is practical and scalable. The low input cost reduces risk, and the profit margin encourages adoption. When most participants begin earning within a short period, confidence spreads naturally.
Second, the project builds skills. Participants are learning how to manage production, maintain hygiene standards, and respond to setbacks. That technical understanding strengthens long-term sustainability.
Third, women’s participation strengthens household resilience. When women generate income, the impact often extends to family well-being and community stability.
Small initiatives can produce steady and lasting change when training, technical guidance, and local commitment come together.
