Study on Cane propagation begins in Dzongu

GANGTOK, 04 May: A research survey on ‘Cane/ Rattan’ is being initiated by the Department of Science and Technology and Climate Change under the project “Cane/ Rattan propagation and its value addition in the Dzongu tribal reserve area, North Sikkim” funded by SEEDS Division, DST, Govt. of India, informs an official press release.
The study is part of a pilot research project on sustainable use of cane for livelihood and create alternative source of income in the region as it is apparent that large cardamom, a major crop of rural Sikkim, is dying out due to several causes, the release informs.
ASO-cum-Principal Investigator for the project, SR Lepcha, informs that cane plantations have dramatically reduced in the State, therefore, the present study is particularly focussed on development of propagation techniques of the local cane species.

The first phase of the project is being initiated with mapping and other allied research studies by Nagen Tamang and Rupak Raj Karki under the supervision of Mr Lepcha from 24 April till 03 May.
Mr Lepcha also informed that similar studies will be extended to Upper Dzongu and these will definitely benefit the affected farmers of large cardamom in the region. Such studies will also provide better insight into cane propagation in Sikkim and in future conservation policy making, the release states.
During the survey, the mapping and quantitative assessment of some rare local species including Daemonorops jenkinsianus, Plectcomia himalayana, Calamus flagellum, C. acanthospathus has been successfully done. These species have potential for cultivation and commercialisation in the near future. According to the research team, such study could provide bare minimum understanding of the Rattan’s ecology and its potential threats in Sikkim.
Rattan are climbing plants belonging to Palmaceae family. Worldwide, there are around 600 different species of Rattan belonging to 13 genera. Many species, including some of commercial importance have restricted natural ranges. They are commercially important NTFPs [Non Timber Forest Products] as a source of furniture, mats, kitchen and agricultural tools and also as food [their shoots are a local delicacy]. Apart from conventional uses, they have beneficial medicinal uses as well. Canes are multipurpose, cheap, durable and flexible used in both developing and developed countries.
Along with studies on cane, a separate study on traditional method for livestock treatment of the area has also been done, the release further informs. As reported by the team led by Mr Lepcha and Laxuman Chhetri [JRF], Dzongu has been identified as one important resource field for extensive studies on traditional methods and its formulations for the treatment of major cattle diseases such as Lamutay, Khoret, Bhagutey, etc.
According to the locals, traditional herbal medication on animals is practically accessible, cheap and equally effective as modern allopathic treatment. Such studies will also be extended to other parts of the state for conservation of traditional methodology for the improvement in livestock rearing, the release adds.