Lucknow: Karina Afzal, a research scholar in the Department of Botany, University of Lucknow, successfully completed the viva-voce examination of her Ph.D. thesis titled “Diseases and Competitor Molds of Button Mushroom and Their Biological Management” under the supervision of Prof. Amritesh Chandra Shukla.
In her research work, Karina identified the diseases and competitor molds affecting button mushroom cultivation and suggested biological management measures for them. The external examiner, Prof. Rakesh Kumar Pandey, a distinguished scientist from CIMAP, not only appreciated the research but also encouraged its extension to rural women while assuring full support. This research will not only make mushroom production safer and more sustainable but also reduce the use of chemical pesticides. As a result, farmers’ costs will decrease, and society will benefit from healthier and cleaner food.
Prof. Amritesh Chandra Shukla stated that this work would prove to be a significant contribution in the field of agriculture and food security. Mushroom cultivation can become a major source of employment at both rural and urban levels. Farmers can also establish enterprises by adopting button mushroom as a primary source of income. This business is particularly useful for women, as it can be started even in small spaces with limited resources. The findings of this research will encourage women entrepreneurs and serve as an important step toward women’s empowerment.
