Surkhet & Dolpa, May 28 -- Though yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) fetches soaring prices in international markets, collectors in Nepal's Karnali region have been struggling to find good prices for the prized caterpillar fungus. They are receiving no more than Rs1,000 per piece-and often much less-despite risking their lives to gather it in the highland meadows.

Bhiudal Budha, 54, of Khatyad Rural Municipality in Mugu district has been collecting yarsagumba for nearly 15 years. "I've built a two-storey house in Surkhet from yarsagumba earnings. But now, prices have dropped and yields are down," he said. "Last year, we invested Rs50,000 to reach the pastures, and our family of four earned just over Rs120,000. Given the hardship and ri...