MP Dhan Bahadur Buda Raises Concern Over Yarsagumba Crisis in Parliament

Kathmandu. CPN MP Dhan Bahadur Buda has questioned what the government is doing to protect Yarsagumba, which is considered the economic backbone of Karnali, as it is in serious crisis.

Speaking during the zero hour of the House of Representatives meeting on Monday, he said that as the production of Yarsagumba, considered an annual income source for thousands of families in 12 Himalayan districts including Dolpa, is declining, the problem of starvation has started to appear in those areas. 

'Due to climate change, unorganized collection, and other reasons, it is estimated that production has decreased by 60 percent this year as well', he said, 'A decrease in Yarsa production means not just herbs but a decrease in the Himalayan economy and an increase in the problem of starvation.' 

He also put forward three demands to the government, stating that Yarsa collectors should be protected, a sustainable market should be managed, and relief and processing centers should be established for the affected collector families.