A study conducted by Nagaland University has identified and assessed the economic value of 47 non-timber forest products (NTFPs) used by forest-dependent communities across villages in Nagaland and Meghalaya. The study found that NTFPs play a significant role in supporting food security and livelihoods among tribal communities, with surplus forest produce being sold in local markets to generate supplementary household income.
The researchers documented 47 plant- and animal-based NTFPs and assessed their collection patterns, uses, and economic value across 20 villages covering 250 households. The findings showed that communities use NTFPs for household consumption, including as food, beverages, and medicines, as well as for preparing value-added products. Surplus produce is sold in local markets, providing an additional source of income beyond traditional agriculture.
Bamboo shoot was found to be the highest-return NTFP in Meghalaya, while wild black pepper was the most commonly collected and highest-return NTFP in Nagaland. A key finding was the scientific identification and classification of the 47 NTFPs, most of which were used primarily for nutritional purposes, followed by therapeutic uses.
The study highlights the importance of NTFPs for rural livelihoods and the need for their sustainable utilisation and management. According to Prof Sanjoy Das of the Department of Agricultural Economics, Nagaland University, despite India’s rich biodiversity, the economic value of many NTFPs remains inadequately recognised. The study could contribute to policy discussions on rural livelihoods, food security, and sustainable management of forest resources.
The researchers noted that Northeast India accounts for more than 33% of India’s total flora and is home to more than 100 indigenous communities that depend on forest resources for sustenance and income. Although India has around 3,000 NTFP species, only 126 have developed marketability, highlighting the need for greater scientific identification, economic valuation, and sustainable management of NTFPs.
The study was published in the Indian Journal of Ecology, a peer-reviewed journal covering ecology, environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, and ecosystem sustainability. The paper was co-authored by researchers from the School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus.
