Tasar Silk and Honey in the Mountains of Garhwal, India

by Appropriate Technology International

Partners:

Appropriate Technology International (ATI) EDA Rural Systems Kumaun University Community Enterprises

1997 Update

This year the project expanded beyond the well established activities in the Akash Kamani Valley to several new villages in the Mansuma Valley. And great strides were made in establishing the tasar activities. The daunting problem of finding technically qualified personnel willing to settle in Ukhimath was resolved by identifying local project staff who have shown promise and aptitude, shifting them to technical positions and providing them with intensive training and periodic technical support from outside. The government has also made a substantial commitment, agreeing to assign a highly qualified technician to work with project technical staff for two years.

Two companies have been registered: Chamoli Tasar and Devhbhoomi Madhu Private Limited. A skilled General Manager has been hired to oversee the day to day operations of both enterprises. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to promote greater producer ownership of the enterprises.

Project staff have surveyed sites for the micro-hydro installation to develop in-house facilities including a cocoon preservation center, grainage for eggs and a honey processing plant. The United Nations Development Program/Global Environment Facility Hilly Hydro has offered very favorable financial terms for its installation.

On the conservation front, senior botanist Dr. S.P. Singh and his team, which included local villagers, worked to complete the initial baseline survey of the ecosystems in the project area. Among the major findings, is that the semicarpafolia variety of oak is not regenerating, for reasons not yet clear. By contrast, the Himalayan variety which can also be used is increasing. Dr. Singh and staff have started discussions with villagers about how best to design a conservation awareness program and to integrate it with other program components. The socio-economic baseline survey which was also completed this year under the guidance of EDA Rural systems will provide useful information to further integrate all of the project activities.

Successes and Challenges

"OK...So What?"

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