About Sikki Grass
- Sikki grass belongs to the zizanoides grass family.
- It is a rich yellowish variety of reed grass, locally known as ‘Kaincha’ is called Golden Grass due to its golden luster on drying.
- Scientifically called Chrysopogon zizanioides, it finds mention in ancient Sanskrit texts such as the Ramayana, where it is referred to as viran, sugandhimool, ushir and nalad.
- This grass grows indigenously in the Tarai regions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and has an average height of 3-4 feet.
- While the stem is used to make artefacts, the roots are used for extracting oil that is used both for perfumery and medicinal purposes.
- In the hilly terrains, it is also now grown to arrest soil erosion.
- Sikki got the geographical identification tag in 2018.
- Uses:
- It is most known for its handicraft. It has been a source of livelihood for many since antiquity.
- It is used to make traditional items such as multipurpose baskets, ornaments, show pieces and many more utility items that are still considered valuable in rural India.
- Challenges
- One of the serious challenges that Sikki craftsmen are facing currently is the brunt of climate change that has impacted the quality of the grass.
- The deteriorating quality of grass due to continual spike in temperature that impacts the softness of Sikki.
- Brittle grass needs extra processing time and is not suitable for making baskets or other artefacts.
Q1) Where is the Terai region located?
Tarai, also spelled Terai, is a region of northern India and southern Nepal running parallel to the lower ranges of the Himalayas.
Source: ‘Government failed us’: Sikki artisans suffer livelihood losses amid climate change & state apathy
Last updated on July, 2025
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