New Delhi. Manish Yadav, hailing from Delhi, was preparing for the Civil Services Exam when the pandemic hit and disrupted his studies. On a friend’s suggestion, he began cultivating mushrooms in a 15 by 15 feet room in Delhi. In the initial days, he made Rs 2.5 lakh. Today, he produces around 40 thousand kilograms annually and earns Rs 5 lakh in a month. 

Friend's support

Manish Yadav is a resident of Kangan Heri village in South West Delhi. When his studies came to a halt, he took his friend’s advice and considered other job prospects. He began cultivating mushrooms in a small room. Manish’s agribusiness is called Shri Shyam Mushroom Farm.

Farming background

During his entrepreneurial journey, Manish’s MBA degree came useful. He had a background in agriculture. His family also grew vegetables and grains, and his house was near Azadpur Mandi, Asia’s largest wholesale market for fruits and vegetables. He was confident about his marketing skills which helped him increase his mushroom production and sales. 

Investment

Manish started his venture with an investment of Rs 40,000. He bought 50 kilograms of mushroom seeds from Sonipat at Rs 8 per kg. In the beginning, he planted 500 bags of mushroom seeds and set up 2 beds in one room. Within a few months, he grew 1000 kg of mushrooms. During winter, mushrooms are sold at around Rs 100 per kg, while in summer, the price can reach up to Rs 450 per kg. 

Cultivating success

Today, Manish cultivates mushrooms in a 1470 square foot area. This space, spanning three rooms, yields around 40,000 kg of mushrooms annually. His efforts generate an annual income of Rs 60 lakh. Last month, he sold button mushrooms at Rs 450 per kg. In a 500 square foot room, 2600 kg of mushrooms are cultivated.