Economic Gains Obtained by the Collectors from Non-Timber Forest Products in the Jammu Region of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

Non-timber forest products (NTFP) income played a vital role in the household economy of forest-dwelling communities. This study used the data from 150 sample households in the three forest divisions of the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir State to analyze the significance of economic gains obtained from NTFPs. Data collection was carried out through face-to-face interviews. This study found that NTFP income contributed 29 per cent, and on-farm and off-farm income contribute 16 and 55 per cent to the total household income, respectively. Major NTFPs included Gucchi (Morchella esculenta), Patis (Aconitum chasmanthum), Nag chhatri (Trillium govanianum), Muskbala (Valeriana hardwickii), Banafsaha (Viola canescence), Dhoop (Jurinea macrocephala), Kaurd (Picorhiza kurroa), Zakham-e-Hayat (Bergenia ciliata), Kasrot (Diplazium esculentum), wild honey and Jungli thome (Allium sativum) were collected. Regression analyses showed that NTFP availability, agriculture as the main occupation, NTFP collection experience, and on-farm income positively contributed to the dependent variable. In contrast, the regression coefficient of off-farm income and source of information were negative contributors to the NTFPs' income. The study further suggested that providing education and other skill development training to local people in the collection, storage, and scientific grading of the NTFPs should be conducted.