Kamala makes millions out of mushroom cultivation

By Tilachan Pandey 

Tamghas, Sept. 8: Kamala Balami of Ward No. 8, Resunga Municipality, has emerged as a prominent figure in mushroom cultivation in the district. At 42 years old, Kamala's journey from Japan to a thriving mushroom business in Tamghas is a story of perseverance and innovation.  

Kamala went to Japan in 2008, where she earned between Rs. 350,000 and 400,000 monthly. Despite her earnings, she had no savings and returned to Nepal in 2011. Upon her return, Kamala started commercial edible fern farming in 2017, alongside raising cattle and goats. However, she shifted her focus entirely to mushroom cultivation after discontinuing livestock farming.  

Over the past four years, Kamala has established a successful mushroom farming operation. Starting with a small setup in 2019, her business has grown significantly. Currently, she manages 70 mushroom tunnels and produces 700 kg of mushrooms daily. With a monthly turnover of around Rs. 3 million, Kamala nets between Rs. 350,000 and 400,000 after expenses. Her business not only supports her family but also employs 25-30 people.  

Kamala's journey into commercial mushroom farming began with a Rs. 100,000 grant from the Agriculture Knowledge Centre, which funded her initial tunnel. The profitability of the first tunnel, which yielded around Rs. 60,000, fueled her enthusiasm. As her operations expanded, so did her success.  

Today, Kamala’s mushrooms are distributed widely. Some 200-220 kgs are sold in the capital, while 400-500 kg reach Butwal, with wholesale prices ranging from Rs. 150 to 180 per kg. In Tamghas, the price can go up to Rs. 200 per kg. Kamala's firm ensures a steady supply to the market throughout the year, except for a brief hiatus during the festival season.  

The construction of the tunnels has cost approximately Rs. 7 million, and the land rental amounts to about Rs. 250,000 annually. Kamala’s enterprise has created significant employment opportunities, with seven workers from Ilam and eleven from neighbouring districts, in addition to other temporary workers based on seasonal needs.  

However, Kamala faces challenges as well. There is a shortage of local workers, leading her to hire from outside the district, who often return home with significant earnings during festival seasons. Kamala also expresses frustration over the low market prices for mushrooms imported from outside, despite her efforts and the taxes she pays to the state, which amount to Rs. 60,000-70,000.  

Kamala advocates for the elimination of middlemen to better support local farmers and believes that while some farmers receive subsidies, the majority are left struggling. Despite these challenges, she finds great personal satisfaction in her work and the positive impact it has on her community.