January 18: Nepal exported Amriso or Tiger grass (commonly known as broom grass) worth Rs 2.5 billion in the last five years. According to the data of the Department of Customs, broom grass, which is mainly used to make brooms, is exported from Nepal to various Asian countries including India and Bangladesh.

In the first five months of the current fiscal year, Nepal exported more than 4,265,000 kilograms of broom grass worth Rs 213 million, which is 10 percent more compared to the same period of last year. Last year, Nepal exported more than 3,892,000 kilograms of broom grass worth Rs 192 million.

Where is broom grass cultivated in Nepal?

Broom grass is mostly found in central and eastern parts of Nepal. It is also one of the main sources of income for farmers in Taplejung, Ilam, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Dhankuta and other districts. Razia Banu, who is involved in the business of broom grass, told New Business Age that the grass is exported to India and Bangladesh in addition to various cities within the country.

Currently, the price of one kg of broom grass ranges from Rs 150 to Rs 200, which can make up to two brooms. She said that the ready-made brooms are sold between Rs 100 and Rs 120.

According to Banu, 90 percent of broom grass produced in Nepal is exported to India.

Broom grass is cultivated by many people to prevent landslides. As it provides good income along with the prevention of landslides, farmers are cultivating broom grass on the banks of rivers where there is no scope for other crops.

Broom grass is used in making paper, and the dust is used in biogas. Banu said that the local government has been encouraging the commercial farming of broom grass lately. Speaking from her experience, Banu said broom grass does not need application of fertilizers time and again after putting it once. The same plant will produce for 15 to 20 years and it does not need much care and maintenance.