Bhakta Karki

Abstract

This paper describes the role of Rudrakshya (Elaeocarpus sphacrius), a wild fruit plant product, for rapid economic change of rural people in Arun Valley, Sankhuwasava district of Nepal. Arun Valley which ranges from 324m to 8481m (Mount Makalu), less developed and geographically isolated; however rich in biodiversity. The area includes a territory of great of great bio-diversity extending from tropical climate in the south (457m-1200m) to temperate ecosystem in the north (above 3000m). Similarly the valley’s climatic condition is favorable for the growth of high value Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and Medicinal and Aromatic Plant species (MAPs) such as Yarsagumba (Cordyceps Sinensis), Alaichi (Cardamom Spp.), and Rudrakshya (Elaeocarpus sphacrius). Total 160 NTFP species are found in this area. Most of the people in this area are engaged in NTFPs collection and plantation in private land as well as community forest. NTFPs are the major source of household economy and it has significant impact on their livelihood. Major agricultural products such as, maize, millet, rice, and barley are possible in this area. However, the changing climatic condition (drought, disease, landslides, and floods) has completely loosed the agricultural productivity.

During the period of crisis, the growing green business of Rudrakshya has proven as an alternative source of income for livelihood subsistence. Khandbari Municipality 12, 13, Wana and Syabun VDCs has shown abundance of Rudrakshya framing. Normally, 5-6 years old Rudrakshya plant can produce 5-8 kg Rudrakshya and one matured tree can produce 30-40kg of Rudrakshya. The price of Rudrakshya is fixed by its faced and shapes. The face starts from 2 to 27 (recently found) where 1 faced Rudrakshya is priceless and impossible to get. Usually, 5 faced Rudrakshya are highly grow and available. The 5 faced Rudrakshya sold Rs. 15-20 per kg. The Rudrakshy price normally exceeds from 14 faced. The study found that the 27 faced Rudrakshya was sold in Rs. 3 million and 21 faced was sold in Rs. 1.8 million in the district..  In the year 2008 and 2009 the total Rudrakshya business was done approximately Rs. 8 crore and Rs. 10 corer, respectively which were almost highest cost business among all the plant products.

The household survey was conducted on July-August, 2009 in above mentioned 4 major Village Development Committees (VDCs) including Rudrakshya grower, collector, and trader. The research found that each household domesticated more than 25 Rudrakshya plant and gained average income Rs. 120,000.00 per season which was comparatively higher than the income from agriculture products. The study also found that the income from selling Rudrakshya is comparatively higher than agriculture products.  Therefore people are interested to grow Rudrakshya plant in their agriculture lands as a major source of income.

Key Words: Rudrakshya, NTFPs, Potentiality analysis, Livelihood subsistence, Arun Valley, Sankhuwasava district, Nepal