Non-timber forest products in management of tribal livelihood of Eastern Himalayan Region: A sustainability analysis

The North Eastern region of India is home to unique and diverse species of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), which are a rich source of income and play an important role in the living traditions of its people. The study was conducted in Meghalaya (East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi) and Nagaland (Mokokchung, Peren), selecting two districts per state. From 20 villages across four Rural Development blocks, 250 respondents were proportionately chosen based on household availability. The study employed an exploratory research design using panel data and a purposive sampling technique, with the survey conducted during 2021-22. The study found that income from NTFPs contributed to socioeconomic sustainability in Nagaland, whereas Meghalaya faced an unsustainable scenario. NTFP income was deemed unsustainable due to monetary value fluctuations and inflation. Among the 47 identified NTFPs, broom grass, bamboo, mushroom, bamboo shoot, and snail were highly preferred for their demand and profitability. The vulnerability index indicated that Asian honeybee (3.57), betel leaf vine (3.40), and wild black pepper (3.13) were ecologically very vulnerable due to overuse, low regeneration, and indiscriminate harvesting. Some species were moderately vulnerable, while most were less vulnerable. Strict regulation by local conservation bodies, traditional institutions, and the state forest department is essential to prevent illegal forest destruction. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, GOI, should expand Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) under TRIFED to enhance value addition, branding, and marketing, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and fair returns for forest-dependent communities.