International Journal on Science and Technology

E-ISSN: 2229-7677     Impact Factor: 9.88

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 17 Issue 2 April-June 2026 Submit your research before last 3 days of June to publish your research paper in the issue of April-June.

Non-Timber Forest Products and Their Role in Sustaining Rural and Tribal Livelihoods in Jharkhand

Author(s) Dr. Smita Paul
Country India
Abstract Non timber forest products (NTFPs) are defined as biological resources of plant and animal origin, harvested from natural forests, plantations, wooded land, and trees outside forests (FAO). This paper is an attempt to examines the role of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in sustaining rural and tribal livelihoods in Jharkhand. The study employs a descriptive and analytical research design, using secondary data to explore the socio-economic significance, challenges, and opportunities associated with NTFPs. Key NTFPs identified in Jharkhand include Lac, Sal seeds, Sal leaves, Mahua flowers, Bamboo shoots, Karanj, Kusum, Amla, Tamarind, Palas (Tesuphool), Chironji, Harra, Kendu leaves, Honey, and Dori (Mahua seed oil). The study has been categorized the contributions of NTFPs into two dimensions: first, socio-economic significance for forest-dependent and tribal communities- consisting livelihood security, household income, poverty reduction, food security, cultural and traditional importance, and women’s empowerment; and second, economic impact on the state, including contribution to state revenue, employment generation, rural entrepreneurship, trade and export, and sustainable development. Despite their importance, NTFPs face challenges such as market inefficiencies, inadequate value addition and processing facilities, limited business and marketing skills, and unsustainable harvesting practices. The findings highlight the need for policy support, capacity building, and sustainable management strategies to enhance the economic and social benefits of NTFPs in Jharkhand.
Keywords Jharkhand, Livelihood, NTFPs, Rural economy, Tribal
Field Sociology > Economics
Published In Volume 17, Issue 2, April-June 2026
Published On 2026-05-04

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