Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana

✦Key Features

• Establishment of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) across tribal regions
• Skill upgradation and capacity building for tribal gatherers and artisans
• Procurement, processing, value addition, and marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP)
• Formation of tribal producer companies/collectives for better market access
• Provision of necessary tools and equipment for value addition activities
• Technological support and market linkages for tribal products

✓Eligibility Criteria

• Members of tribal communities as defined by the government
• Tribal gatherers, artisans, and entrepreneurs
• Participation in Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) or tribal Self Help Groups (SHGs)
• Residing in tribal-dominated areas where MFPs are abundant

★Benefits

• Enhanced income and improved livelihoods for tribal communities
• Reduced exploitation by middlemen due to direct market linkages
• Skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities in value addition
• Promotion of sustainable harvesting and management of forest resources
• Empowerment of tribal women and youth through economic activities

▶Application Process

• Formation of tribal Self Help Groups (SHGs) in identified clusters
• Registration of SHGs with TRIFED or the designated implementing agency
• Identification and establishment of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs)
• Training and capacity building provided to tribal members for value addition
• Procurement, primary processing, and value addition of Minor Forest Produce
• Marketing and sale of value-added tribal products through various channels

₹ Budget Allocation

26000

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): 100% Central Government (via TRIFED)

Historical Context

Launched in April 2018 to improve tribal incomes through value addition of MFPs, which account for a major part of their cash income.