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Lotus root extraction in India is a practice deeply rooted in tradition, offering both sustenance and livelihood to numerous communities across the country.
In regions like Maharashtra, the Dheevar fishing community has long relied on the harvesting of lotus roots, known locally as 'bhishikanda', from water bodies such as the Navegaon Bandh reservoir.
This activity, which has been a part of their culture for decades, provides essential nutrition and income, especially during the summer months when other employment opportunities are scarce.
However, this age-old practice faces challenges from environmental regulations and conservation efforts. In Maharashtra, the forest department's attempts to restrict lotus root extraction, citing conservation concerns, have sparked tensions with local communities.
The villagers argue that such measures threaten their livelihoods and food security, as the lotus roots regenerate quickly and sustainably, and there is no evidence to suggest that their harvesting harms the environment.
Similarly, in Jammu and Kashmir, the harvesting of lotus stems, known as 'Nadru', is an integral part of the local economy and cuisine. Farmers in areas like Dal Lake and Anchar Lake spend long hours in boats during the harvesting season, which runs from September to March.
The stems are a staple in Kashmiri dishes and are sold at varying prices depending on quality. However, pollution in these lakes, caused by illegal construction and improper waste disposal, has adversely affected the production of lotus stems, leading harvesters to appeal to the government for cleaner water bodies to sustain their livelihoods.
In Chhattisgarh, particularly in Dhamtari district, the Dheemar community, also known as Dhais, engages in the cultivation and harvesting of lotus rhizomes. These rhizomes are grown in wetlands and harvested during the monsoon season, contributing to the local diet and economy.