2 July 2025
Inspired by the environmental impact of agricultural waste, Pune’s Trupti Dhakate, a former microbiology professor, found a way to turn waste into a valuable crop.
“I thought, why not use this waste to grow something beneficial, like mushrooms? Not only would it reduce pollution, but it would also offer farmers a way to grow something nutritious,” says Trupti.
Her family was initially skeptical about her decision to leave academia for farming. The idea seemed risky, but Trupti’s passion for sustainability and mushrooms kept her determined.
With Rs 3 lakh invested by her husband, she launched Quality Mushroom Farm in 2018. “Mushrooms are helpful for people suffering from breast and prostate cancer,” her husband, Bhushan, avers.
Trupti’s biggest challenge was educating the public about mushrooms. “We went to the local markets, set up tasting stations, and handed out free samples to help people see their value.”
When COVID-19 disrupted markets, she pivoted by creating mushroom-based products like cookies, khakhra, and cupcakes. “People were looking for plant-based sources of protein, and mushrooms were the perfect fit.”
Trupti’s work goes beyond her farm. She has educated over 7,000 students and helped 200+ farmers launch their own mushroom businesses. “Natural farming is better for everyone — the soil, the crops, and the people.”
She teaches farmers to adopt organic farming methods and emphasises vermicomposting to create natural fertilisers. Her focus is on making farming healthier and more sustainable for everyone involved.
Trupti’s brand grew from humble beginnings. “The first three years were all about setting up, learning, and experimenting. Now, we’re serving customers across India.”
Today, Quality Mushroom Farm offers wholesale mushroom supplies and home delivery nationwide. Trupti continues her research, exploring new varieties like shiitake and semechi mushrooms.
“I want people to start farming quality products sustainably because everyone deserves good food,” says Trupti, committed to empowering more farmers to adopt sustainable practices.