Gender Roles in the Production and Marketing of Allo (Girardinia diversifolia): an Income Generating Activity of the Kulung Rai Community, Makalu-Barun National Park Area, Sankhuwasabha District, Nepal

摘要

The nettle, Girardinia diversifolia, locally known as 'allo' in eastern and 'puwa' in western Nepal, is an indigenous plant valued for fibre. It is a stinging nettle species that grows naturally at altitudes of 1200-3000m in areas not suitable for agricultural crops. The women of the Kulung Rai community play an important role in producing a variety of allo products. The Rai people, known as Kiranti in ancient times, live around the Arun River. At present, allo has become an important source of income in the district. Harvesting allo is an ancient craft, and the plant is still used for certain religious ceremonies, especially funerals. Over the past 13 years, the high demand for allo clothing has increased the price and made it difficult for local villagers to buy and use it for their ceremonies.