Forest and Identity: The Enduring Traditional Livelihood Practices of the Kukis in Kangpokpi District of Manipur, India

This paper attempts to assess the types, amount and uses of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) by the Kuki Community of Kangpokpi district of Manipur. The study finds that forest resources plays an integral part for the Kukis in maximum ways like other tribal groups of Indian sub-continent. Out of the total 43 different types of NTFPs collected by the Kuki community, 20 items are leaves, 7 items are wild fruits, 3 items are flower parts, 3 items are roots, 2 items shoot and fuel, and the remaining 5 items for other valuable parts. Mushroom is the most favourite NFTPs collected by the Kukis. This study adopts a qualitative research approach to explore the role of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in the traditional livelihoods of the Kuki community in Kangpokpi District, Manipur. The methodology emphasizes ethnographic insights, participatory engagement, and in-depth understanding of socio-cultural and economic practices related to forest dependence. The study suggests that the Kuki ethnic community are more dependent on forest NTFPs due to historical factors, social and economic factors prevalent among the community.