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.