.jpg)
The rise in the price of Chireeta (Swertia chirayita) has made farmers and traders in Taplejung happy. This year, the herb, called Chiraito in Nepali, is fetching higher prices than cardamom, the main cash crop of the district. This has excited farmers and businessmen. According to local collector Govinda Raj Baral, 40 kilograms of Chireeta fetches Rs. 32,000 in the market. “The price is even higher in the markets of Birtamod, Jhapa where 40 kilograms can go for Rs. 35,000,” he said. Cardamom, on the other hand, sells for around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 27,000 per 40 kilograms. This increase in price is driven by a rise in demand, mainly in India.