People of Lauri Geog in Samdrupjongkhar are worried that the yield of a medical herb which grows wild in their area is falling.
The herb, known as Chirata, is an important source of cash income for the villagers. It is collected at this time of the year and sold in nearby Indian markets.
The drop in yield is being blamed on unsustainable methods of cultivation. The marketing strategy has also been described as haphazard.
To ensure its sustainability and improve marketing, farmers from Lauri met with traders and experts at a two day workshop this week.
The district forestry officer said interim measures are urgently needed.
Last year, Lauri farmers collected and sold over 10 metric tons of Chirata.
