State Promotes Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation in Kalimpong Hills

Soumitra Nandi, MP, 24 Jan 2026, Kolkata : The Food Processing Industries and Horticulture (FPI&H) Department is promoting the cultivation of shiitake mushrooms — valued for both culinary and medicinal purposes — to enhance farmers’ livelihoods.

The department has identified 21 beneficiaries in Kalimpong I block, providing them with technical support and handholding to start cultivation of this mushroom variety. A one-time subsidy covering 50 per cent of the cost will be extended to beneficiaries upon completion of the promotion scheme. Production is expected to begin by mid-year, with shiitake mushrooms fetching around ₹1,000 per kilogram in the market.

Traditionally, shiitake mushrooms are grown on hardwood logs, particularly oak, prized for its durability and nutrient-rich wood. The process involves drilling holes in logs, inserting spawn, sealing them, and later soaking the logs to “force” fruiting after several months of colonisation. This method allows sustainable production over multiple years.

The variety is already cultivated in the Darjeeling–Kalimpong hills, where local farmers rely on hardwood logs as a consistent source of income. Initiatives such as the “Hills Shiitake Mushroom Hub” provide training and marketing support. Dried shiitake mushrooms are also sold by distributors in nearby Siliguri.

The Himalayan region’s unique climate is well-suited for growing a range of mushrooms, including gourmet varieties like shiitake. While oak is ideal for its sugars and nutrients that aid mycelial growth, other hardwoods such as maple, beech, and sweetgum can also be used successfully.