Empowering Livelihoods: Mushroom Harvest in RNBA Intervention Areas

The women-led Common Interest Groups (CIGs) of Mapao Thangal and Thangal Surung have successfully completed their second mushroom harvest, marking another milestone in their journey toward economic empowerment. With support from the Realm of Nature-Based Actions (RNBA), these CIGs are strengthening their livelihoods and improving household incomes through sustainable mushroom cultivation.

Each of the two villages—Mapao Thangal and Thangal Surung—has two CIGs, with four dedicated members in each group. This season, every CIG harvested approximately 40-50 kilos of fresh mushrooms, which were sold in the local market at prices ranging between ₹200 and ₹300 per kilo. This initiative has provided a significant boost to their earnings, reinforcing the positive impact of community-based agricultural ventures.

RNBA has played a crucial role in this achievement by offering capacity-building programs and financial assistance to the beneficiaries. These training sessions have equipped the women with the necessary knowledge and skills to cultivate high-yielding mushrooms while ensuring the sustainability of their farming practices. Additionally, the financial support provided has enabled them to procure essential materials for mushroom production, further strengthening their ability to scale their operations.

The success of this initiative not only enhances individual livelihoods but also fosters a sense of community resilience. The participating women are now more confident in their ability to generate income and contribute meaningfully to their household economy. Encouraged by their achievements, they are determined to sustain and expand their mushroom cultivation efforts in the long run. Through this initiative, RNBA continues to empower rural women, fostering economic independence and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The thriving mushroom harvest in these intervention areas is a testament to the transformative power of community-driven development efforts