Finding gondra amid the floods

Finding gondra amid the floods

Subject :Environment

Section:  Species in new

Context: Sahariyaadivasis gather and treat a river sedge called ‘gondra’, the roots of which are used in manufacturing perfume. The Sahariyas rely on gondra for subsistence.

More on the News:

• Sahariyas living in Madhya Pradesh on the banks of Sindh river were impacted by a flash flood in August 2021 and other subsequent weather events.
• Changes in the river’s ecology and climate impact the accessibility of gondra, and consequently the livelihoods of one of the most vulnerable communities in India.

River Sedge (Gondra)

• River sedge, locally called ‘gondra’, is a grass-like plant species that grows in the riverine plains of the Himalayan region.
• It belongs to the Cyperaceae family and is found in the foothills of the Himalayas, in states like Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
• It is used by local communities for weaving traditional baskets, mats, and other handicrafts, and is an important source of livelihood for them.
• The sedge is also used for making ropes, for thatching roofs, and as a biofencing material.
• The plant is drought-resistant and can grow on sandy and moist river banks.
• Gondra is a medicinal plant that is used in Ayurvedic cures in dry or powdered form. The essential oil (0.5-0.9%) from the tuber is used in perfumery, soap making and in insect repellents. The raw material that remains after extracting the oil is used for making the body of incense sticks.
• Additionally, some species of gondra are used for soil stabilization and phytoremediation of contaminated sites.

Sahariya Tribe

• Sahariyas are a tribe living in the border regions of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh in India.
• They are classified as particularly vulnerable tribal groups.
• The Sahariya community considers every adult member part of a governing council which is headed by a patel.
• The Sahariyas are expert woodsmen and forest product gatherers.
• They are particularly skilled in making catechu from Khair trees.