Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Lac culture, also known as resin culture, is an age-old agro-industry practiced in India and other parts of Asia. It involves the cultivation of lac insects – primarily *Kerria lacca* – on host trees to obtain lac, a natural resin. Historically significant as a dye and sealant, lac continues to be a valuable non-timber forest product (NTFP), providing livelihood opportunities for tribal communities. India is the world’s largest producer of lac, accounting for over 60% of global production. The practice is deeply intertwined with traditional ecological knowledge and sustainable forest management.
Methodology Employed in Lac Culture
Lac culture is a complex process involving several stages, each crucial for a successful harvest.
1. Host Selection
The selection of suitable host trees is the first step. Different lac insect strains thrive on different host species. Common hosts include:
- Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana): Most widely used, yielding ‘kusmi’ lac.
- Palas (Butea monosperma): Yields ‘dhauri’ lac, known for its hardness.
- Kusum (Schleichera oleosa): Yields ‘kusum’ lac, valued for its colour.
- Pilkha (Ficus lacca): Used for ‘roj’ lac, harvested multiple times a year.
Factors considered during host selection include tree age, health, and proximity to water sources.
2. Inoculation (Bigha Technique)
This involves introducing lac larvae (called ‘bigha’) onto the host branches. The process typically occurs during the monsoon season (June-September).
- Branches are pruned to create suitable sites for inoculation.
- Bigha are tied onto the branches using twine.
- The number of bigha per branch varies depending on the tree species and desired yield.
3. Growth and Development
The lac insects feed on the sap of the host tree and develop through several nymphal stages. The insects secrete resinous material as they grow, forming encrustations on the branches. This process takes approximately 6-8 months.
4. Harvesting
Lac is harvested when it is fully matured, typically between February and May. The branches encrusted with lac are cut down and scraped to remove the resin.
- Scraping: The most common method, involving manual scraping of the lac from the branches.
- Burning: In some areas, branches are burnt, and the molten lac is collected. This method is less efficient and can damage the host tree.
5. Processing
The harvested lac, known as ‘sticklac’, is a crude form containing twigs, insect bodies, and other debris. It undergoes further processing to obtain refined lac:
- Washing: Sticklac is washed to remove dirt and debris.
- Crushing: Washed lac is crushed to break it into smaller pieces.
- Winnowing: Crushed lac is winnowed to separate the resin from impurities.
- Melting & Filtering: The resin is melted and filtered to remove remaining impurities.
- Flaking/Moulding: Molten lac is then flaked or moulded into various shapes for different applications.
Uses of Lac
Lac has a wide range of applications, spanning various industries:
- Shellac Industry: The primary use of lac is in the production of shellac, a natural resin used as a coating for wood, furniture, and electrical components.
- Dye Industry: Lac produces natural dyes, particularly red, used in textiles, leather, and food coloring.
- Cosmetics Industry: Lac is used in the production of nail polish, hair sprays, and other cosmetic products.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: Lac has medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for treating various ailments.
- Food Industry: Purified lac is used as a glazing agent for confectionery and fruits.
- Electrical Industry: Shellac is an excellent insulator and is used in electrical components.
- Handicrafts: Lac is used in the making of bangles, ornaments, and other decorative items.
| Type of Lac | Host Tree | Characteristics | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kusmi | Ber | Pale colour, good adhesion | Wood finishing, shellac production |
| Dhauri | Palas | Hard, brittle, dark colour | Sealing wax, electrical insulation |
| Roj | Pilkha | Soft, easily harvestable | Dye production, bangles |
Conclusion
Lac culture represents a sustainable and ecologically sound agro-industry with significant economic and social benefits, particularly for tribal communities. While facing challenges from synthetic alternatives, the demand for natural and eco-friendly products is driving renewed interest in lac cultivation. Promoting research and development, improving processing techniques, and strengthening market linkages are crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of this traditional practice and maximizing its contribution to rural livelihoods.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.