In 2020, assistant professor Sonia Dahiya embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that would transform lives in her community. Combining her expertise in biotechnology with a passion for social change, she established ‘Doctor Dahiya Mushroom Farm,’ a high-tech mushroom farming business in Sonipat, Haryana. Today, her farm produces an impressive 10 tonnes of mushrooms every month, generating a revenue of Rs 9 lakh while empowering rural women with stable employment and financial independence.
From Lockdown Idea to Thriving Business
The COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty to many, but for Sonia, it became an opportunity. While many were confined to their homes, she pursued her dream of mushroom farming, an idea initially met with skepticism from her family and peers. With an initial investment of Rs 40 lakh, she built two growing rooms and hired local help. Over time, her knowledge from research papers and hands-on experience helped her refine her farming techniques.
By 2022, she expanded her farm to four growing rooms, significantly increasing production. Today, her mushrooms supply local caterers and vendors at Delhi’s Azadpur Mandi, making her a key player in the region’s agricultural industry.
The Science Behind Mushroom Farming
Mushroom cultivation is far from simple. Sonia compares it to caring for a newborn, requiring constant monitoring and precision. Early in her journey, she faced challenges such as power cuts and low-quality compost, which impacted yields. Determined to improve efficiency, she established her own compost unit using locally available paddy straw, chicken manure, and wheat bran.
“Mushroom farming is more complex than it seems,” she explains. “During the first 40 days of the vegetative phase, we keep the windows closed to regulate carbon dioxide levels. Once mushrooms begin to sprout, we introduce fresh air to support their growth.” Temperature control is equally critical, as even a slight rise beyond 30°C can damage the crops. Her background in biotechnology has been instrumental in navigating these challenges and optimizing production.
More Than Just Business: A Mission for Women’s Empowerment
Beyond commercial success, Sonia’s farm serves a greater purpose: empowering rural women. Recognizing the struggles of women in her community—many of whom lacked stable employment—she made it her mission to provide them with opportunities.
“As an assistant professor, I had financial security, but the pandemic opened my eyes to the hardships faced by rural women,” she says. “If our own needs are met, it’s time to look at how we can uplift society.”
Today, Sonia employs 15 rural women who manage daily operations. These women, previously engaged in unstable daily wage labor, now earn steady incomes, transforming their lives.
Savita, a 40-year-old worker, recalls her struggles before joining the farm. “I used to earn Rs 250 a day, sometimes going 10 days without work. Now, I earn Rs 11,500 per month, and my family enjoys regular meals,” she shares.
For Pinki Devi, the job brought financial stability and dignity. “Before, I worked under the harsh sun, but now I work in air-conditioned rooms. I even stay an hour beyond my shift because I enjoy my work,” she says.
Despite these positive changes, societal challenges persist. Sonia recalls a call from a worker’s husband demanding she be fired so she could tend to household duties. “This highlights the ongoing struggle for independence among rural women. My goal is to support them in earning their own income and finding their strength,” she says.
Cultivating More Than Mushrooms—Cultivating Hope
In the cool, controlled environment of her farm, Sonia fosters more than just mushroom growth; she cultivates a sense of community. “Sometimes, we dance, share chai pakoras, and even host DJ nights,” she says with a smile.
For many women, especially widows and divorcees, these moments of camaraderie are as valuable as their income. “This isn’t just about business. It’s about offering hope and independence to those who need it most,” Sonia affirms.
Through her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to social impact, Sonia Dahiya has not only built a successful agribusiness but also created a model for empowerment—one mushroom at a time.