State farmers to cultivate Shiitake mushroom with Japan’s help

SHILLONG: The state government will sign an MoU with Japan on Tuesday to cultivate edible Shiitake mushroom in the state.
This will be for the first time that Japan is collaborating with India in Shiitake mushroom cultivation.
Agriculture Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh told reporters on Monday that currently, the state is producing only oyster and button mushrooms in plenty.
“We want to explore the possibility of availing good quality mushrooms and Japan has offered to assist in cultivating the Shiitake mushrooms grown in that country”, he said.
The climate for cultivation of Shiitake mushroom is conducive in East Khasi Hills, West and South West Khasi Hills but not in Ri Bhoi and Garo Hills, he said.
According to Lyngdoh, the mushroom cultivators of Meghalaya can visit Japan for a three-month training.