International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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Impact of Minor Forest Produce Collection and Trade on the Livelihoods of Tribal Communities in Gadchiroli District, Maharashtra

Author(s) Dr. Rupendrakumar Indrapalsingh Gour
Country India
Abstract This case study provides an in depth exploration of the economic, cultural, social, and ecological significance of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) in the lives of tribal communities residing in Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra—one of India’s most forest-rich and tribal dominated regions. With over 75% forest cover and one of the highest numbers of recognized Community Forest Rights (CFR) titles in the country, Gadchiroli presents a unique and exemplary case of community-led forest management.
The study is based on extensive fieldwork, including interactions with Gram Sabha presidents, tribal households, PESA coordinators, NGO leaders, and district-level institutions. Through these engagements, the case study reveals that MFP is not merely a supplementary livelihood option but a central pillar of survival and identity for tribal families. Seasonal forest produce such as tendu leaves, mahua flowers, bamboo, charoli, honey, and medicinal herbs contribute significantly to household income and provide critical support during agricultural lean periods.
Economically, the CFR model has transformed the forest-based economy of Gadchiroli by enabling Gram Sabhas to regulate harvesting, negotiate fair prices, and reinvest revenues in community development. Organized tendu and bamboo trading has ensured transparency and eliminated exploitation by middlemen. Women, who play a major role in MFP collection and processing, have gained increased financial independence and participation in community decision-making.
Socially, CFR has revitalized the Gram Sabha as a democratic institution. Community participation in decision-making, collective harvesting, and resource management has strengthened social cohesion and reduced internal conflicts. The recognition of tribal ownership over forests has enhanced their dignity and confidence in self-governance.
Culturally, MFP remains deeply embedded in tribal rituals, festivals, food traditions, spiritual beliefs, and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). Practices surrounding mahua collection, protection of sacred groves, and sustainable harvesting norms reflect a cultural ethos that respects nature as a living entity. CFR has helped revive many of these cultural traditions by restoring community control over traditionally held forest areas.
Environmentally, community-led forest protection has resulted in increased biodiversity, reduced forest fires, enhanced regeneration of bamboo and medicinal plants, and better conservation of water and soil resources. Traditional conservation practices—such as selective harvesting, rotational access, and respect for mother trees—have contributed to ecological balance.
However, the study also identifies several challenges, including market instability, inadequate value-addition infrastructure, poor MSP implementation, climate variability, and limited access to modern processing technologies. Addressing these issues is essential to unlocking the full economic potential of MFP and ensuring sustainable development.
In conclusion, the case study highlights that MFP is not just a livelihood resource but a holistic system that bridges economy, culture, community governance, and environmental stewardship. With continued policy support, capacity building, and investment in processing and market linkages, MFP can serve as a powerful model for sustainable, community-driven rural development across India. Gadchiroli’s experience demonstrates that when forest communities are empowered with rights and respect, they safeguard the forests more effectively than any external system
Keywords Minor Forest Produce, Community Forest Right Act, Tribal Community, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Minimum Support Prize
Published In Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-05-11
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