Extension strategy and awareness programme of cultivation technology of medicinally important mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum in rural areas

Abstract

Ganoderma lucidum is an important medicinal mushroom being used in clinical, pharmaceutical and
nutritional industry for the treatment of various diseases such as migraine, hypertension, asthma, hepatitis
and cardiovascular problems. Its therapeutic importance and increasing demand emphasizes to develop
and extend its easy cultivation technique. In the present study the main focus was given to small groups
and marginal farmers of rural areas specially women and unemployed youth who can make an economic
contribution to agricultural and healthcare markets. The results proved the success of the extension
approach and methodology which entitles many local villagers and farmers of nearby areas of Dehradun,
India to cultivate mushroom and earn a good source of income. This would create new approaches of
employment for the rural populations.