- Van Dhan Yojana gives a new identity to self-reliance
It is an initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED, launched in 2018. Its primary objective is to train tribal communities that collect minor forest produce, add value to their products, and provide them with sustainable livelihoods by empowering them as entrepreneurs. Mahua, found in the forests of Chhattisgarh, has become a powerful source of income and self-reliance for rural and tribal women. Through the state government’s Van Dhan Vikas Kendra scheme, women are being trained to make value-added products from Mahua. This is increasing their income and moving them towards becoming successful entrepreneurs.
- ‘Success of Korinbhatha Forest Wealth Development Centre in Rajnandgaon district’
The women of the Korinbhatha Van Dhan Vikas Kendra in Rajnandgaon district have taken full advantage of this scheme. Previously, they were only collecting mahua, but now, after training, they are making laddus, cookies, energy bars, squash, and other useful products from mahua. Modern processing and attractive packaging have created a strong demand for these products in the market.
- ‘Training and Skill Development’
At the Van Dhan Vikas Kendra, women are not only taught how to make products, but also about quality, clean production, packaging, labeling, storage, and marketing. This allows them to produce products that meet market needs and receive fair prices.
- ‘Value addition of Mahua has increased employment’
Value addition to mahua has increased both its utility and market value. This has created new employment opportunities locally. Women’s incomes have increased and their families’ economic status has been strengthened. Value addition to mahua flowers and seeds has multiplied the income of women in rural and tribal areas.
Instead of simply selling raw mahua, products such as laddus, cookies, jams, and energy bars are now being made from it, creating new employment opportunities and sustainable livelihoods locally.
- Market availability through Chhattisgarh Herbals
These products are being provided a wider market through ‘Chhattisgarh Herbals’. This is giving new recognition to forest-based products and rural women are getting better opportunities to sell their products. This is a unique initiative of Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation. Under this, natural and pure products obtained from forests like forest honey, aloe vera gel, herbal juice, Mahua products, Ayurvedic powders and oils are prepared and sold by women self-help groups. Its main objective is to provide livelihood to tribals and local people.
- ‘A step towards self-reliance’
This success of the women of Korinbhatha demonstrates that with proper training, modern technology, and marketing support, forest wealth can be transformed into a strong foundation for employment and prosperity. The Van Dhan Vikas Kendra scheme is empowering women to become self-reliant and reshaping the rural economy.
