Introduction

Paper has traditionally been made in Sikkim from the bark of the Argeli (Nepalese) or Theyshing (Sikkimese) (Edgeworthia gardneri) shrub. Argeli (pronounced as ar-gay-lee) is a fast and abundantly growing temperate shrub. The strength and durability of the handmade paper from Argeli makes it particularly suitable for monastic scriptures and governmental land records. The paper is also used for making decorative lampshades and souvenir writing pads.To meet this growing demand, SF initiated the project with its own equity capital and participation from the local community with the objective to disinvest SF's equity after the local community is able to run the unit on their own profitably.The success of this unit can be replicated in other areas of Sikkim where this plant grows abundantly.

Project Objectives

• To set up a self sustaining unit generating local employment and supplement income for the local community through supply of Argeli barks.
• To encourage setting up of ancillary units by individuals, NGOs, Community Based Organisations and Self Help Groups 
  
• To use local resources in a sustainable manner.
• To initiate local enterprise to setup other local resource based units.
• To foster community based development process.

Raw material availability

Argalee (Edgeworthia gardneri) is an abundantly occurring shrub between 1500 mtrs to 2200 mtrs in the Sikkim Himalayas. The plant does not have major usage in the daily chores of the village society and is used mainly for making ropes. However the mulch of the leaves from Argalee in the cardamom plantations is considered good for cardamom. The shrub is fast growing and can be easily propagated.

Features of Argeli Paper

• Produced from fast growing shrub abundantly available in Sikkim
• Resistant to insects
• Lightweight
• Produced from fresh raw material
• Village community directly benefiting from sales

Market Profile

State government – land records, stationery etc.

Tourists - gift items etc.

Local market in and around Sikkim-letter pads, cards, visiting cards, gift items, packaging for tea, cardamom  etc.

Handicraft emporia in Metros and abroad-gift products, paper.

Religious institutions / bodies –monasteries, scriptures etc.