Capacity building of Nilgiris tribal women on value addition in non-wood forest products (NWFPs)

Abstract

Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs) are an integral part of development and survival of people living in and around forests. The potential economic value of NWFPs either in terms of utilization or their market value is often underestimated or unknown. A study was undertaken in the Nilgiris tribal women. The study mainly focused on imparting training to the tribal women on value addition technologies in NWFPs viz. Shikkakai, (Acacia concinna), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Tamarind (Tamarindusindica), Tamarind (Tamarindusindica), Echam leaves (Phoenix loureirii), Honey (Apisdorsata), Soapnuts (Sapinduserginatus), Bee wax, Jamun (Syzygiumcumini) and Kadukkai (Terminalia chebula). The adoption level of the tribal women were assessed using percentage analysis.