- Minor forest produce processing has provided thousands of women with respectable employment and a sustainable source of income.
In Chhattisgarh’s rural and forest areas, Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have emerged as a powerful foundation for women’s economic independence and self-reliance. Through the successful implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Vikas Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana, 155 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have been established in the state so far. Of these, 139 are located in general areas and 16 in Particularly Backward Tribal Group (PVTG) areas.
- The journey from collection to processing
These centers have transformed traditional minor forest produce collection by combining modern processing with modern methods. They not only collect forest produce, but also provide primary processing and manufacture high-quality herbal products. This initiative has provided sustainable employment to thousands of women near their villages.
Thousands of groups received financial support
The success of the Van Dhan Vikas Kendras can be gauged from these figures. Approximately 4,900 women self-help groups are directly affiliated with these centers. Approximately 55,000 women members are engaged in collection and processing in villages and markets. Over the past five years, approximately ₹4 crore in commissions have been distributed to women for their collection work.
Increased income from herbal products
In addition to primary collection, special attention is also being paid to value addition. Approximately 17,000 women from 1,300 women’s groups are involved in herbal product manufacturing. To date, approximately ₹1 crore (approximately $10 million) has been paid to women for this specialized work. Finished products are being supplied to the AYUSH Department. Four centers have set an example by earning a net profit of ₹25.17 lakh (approximately $10 million).
Empowerment from local resources
This initiative of the Van Dhan Vikas Kendras is not only empowering women economically but also stimulating the forest economy through better utilization of local resources. This initiative is turning the dream of Vocal for Local and a self-reliant India into reality in the forests of Chhattisgarh.