Amravati, 30 May (HS): ‘Charoli’ or ‘Chironji’

plants are on the verge of extinction from Amravati’s Melghat region. Charoli

was an important source of income for the tribals living in Melghat. The nut

rich in nutrition was collected by the tribals from the Melghat forest, fruit

dried and seeds sold to the traders. The seed used on sweets and various other

food items across the nation. The price per kilogramme of Charoli seeds is more

than Rs 3,000.

A large number of Charoli plants existed in forest

near Katkumbh, Kajaldoh, Homa, Kaneri, Bamdehi, Koylari, Korda, Pachdongri,

Gangarkheda, Kotmi, Dahendri, Bagdari, Toranwadi, Butida, Jarida and Ghana

villages. The tribals in large numbers were dependent on earnings from seeds

harvested from these plants. The plants survive for 25 to 30 years. With no new

plantation the number of plants are reducing affecting the earnings of tribals.

Moreover, it has also affected biodiversity in the region. Now the important

source of nutrition rich seeds are on the verge of extinction.

The environment lovers have appealed to the people

to preserve the important species and also provide earning source to the

tribals living in forest areas. They have also alleged that the saplings of

Charoli are not easily available despite growing demand. They have appealed to

the Forest Department to make available the saplings. The seed besides being

rich in nutrition also is a medicinal plant.

CHAROLI:

Charoli in Marathi is called Chironji in Hindi or referred to as Amlondettes,

Cuddapah almonds or calumpong nuts.

The seeds are tiny lentil-shaped extracted from hard

shells of the Buchanania culsine tree.

The taste is mildly sweet and nutty closely

resembling a mix of almonds and pine nuts. It is rich in protein, healthy fats

and Vitamins C and E.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar