Identity of Economically Important Amomum spp in Tripura

Abstract

Different species of Amomum are found as natural forest undergrowths in Tripura state. Identification of three major economically important Amomum spp which has natural
occurrence quite widely in forests of Tripura was a felt need of the concerned stake holders. Spices Board in Tripura in collaboration with Department of Forest, Govt. of Tripura have undertaken this study to identify Amomum spp so as to add value to the supply chain of these crops for its intrinsic spice as well as medicinal uses. The study location involved Kumarghat, Manu, Jamturbari, Taidu and Khowaifung forest range in Tripura identified by the Department of Forest where Amomum spp occur naturally. The identified areas are delineated to concerned Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMC) of the respective locations comprising of local people mostly tribals and representatives of the Department of Forest. Each JFMC looks after the Amomum spp of the designated area under their purview. Three species of Amomum were collected, identified and documented from the study area. They are A. coryonostachyum Wall., A. aromaticum Roxb. and A. maximum Roxb. However the main economic activity of tribal in the study area centered around Bheering. Bheering, the economically most important produce among tribal which generates revenue for them was found to be the dried fruits of A. corynostachyum Wall. The present study established the scientific identity of the plants which are gaining importance as a spice and medicinal source. The characterization would definitely help in making required policies for their conservation, utilization and economic gain for the attached local communities.