CM calls it ‘landmark success,’ lauds team
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, April 11: In a landmark advancement in agricultural research, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir has standardised the cultivation technology of Morchella, commonly known as Gucchi.
Officials said that the success is a major significant breakthrough in a field that has challenged scientists across the globe for decades.
The achievement has drawn praise from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who, in a letter addressed to Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, extended his “sincere congratulations” to the university.
He described the development as a “remarkable breakthrough” that reflects SKUAST-K’s unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and the promotion of high-value natural resources.
Highlighting the socio-economic importance of the breakthrough, the Chief Minister said the research holds immense potential for enhancing livelihoods, particularly in mountainous and rural areas where Gucchi mushrooms are both a valuable economic asset and part of traditional heritage.
He noted that the innovation is expected to open new avenues for sustainable cultivation, value addition, and income generation.
As per the officials, the milestone was achieved through the independent efforts of two research teams within the university.
Dr Tariq A. Sofi and his PhD scholar Kamran Muneer from the Faculty of Horticulture, Shalimar, successfully standardised the cultivation process under controlled greenhouse conditions.
At the same time, Dr Vikas Gupta from the Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, demonstrated successful cultivation in open field conditions, making the breakthrough adaptable to diverse farming environments.
The Chief Minister also placed on record his special appreciation for the scientists involved, commending their vision, perseverance, and rigorous research.
Notably, Gucchi mushrooms are among the world’s most expensive edible fungi, highly sought after for their distinctive flavour and medicinal properties.
Officials said that despite their high market value, their availability has historically been limited to wild forest habitats due to their complex life cycle and highly specific environmental requirements.
In J&K, officials noted, their growth has traditionally depended on natural conditions in select forest ecosystems, restricting supply to a short seasonal window.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Ganai described the development as a “game-changing breakthrough” that marks a shift from uncertain wild collection to a scalable, scientifically managed production system.
He emphasised that the innovation will transform Gucchi from a scarce forest resource into a high-value agricultural enterprise.
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