Management of NTFPs - Livelihood and Conservation

Abstract

Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) are significant outcome of forest products and these are harvested by tribes for their livelihood needs. Some of the NTFPs are fruits, seeds, medicinal and aromatic plants, resins, honey, gum, bamboos and canes. NTFP is extracted from natural forests and mix of forest-based agricultural fields. NTFP product has both rural and urban market linkages. The collectors faced problems in marketing of NTFPs because of underdeveloped markets. Management of NTFPs means both the conservation of forest with relatively good biodiversity impacts. Social networks could help bridge the tribe's livelihood support and conservation of forests through compliment efforts to improve the functions of NTFP management and marketing. NTFPs in rural livelihoods are key for any development policy to respond to the needs of local people. A review of the NTFP management suggests that asynchronous networking via modern technologies would be a better option for both livelihood and conservation.