News: PMJVM has sanctioned 4,172 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) and linked 12.48 lakh tribal members to the scheme.

About PMJVM

• Central Sector Scheme launched in 2021–22 by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• Implemented at the central level by TRIFED.
• Promote value addition, entrepreneurship and better income for tribal communities dependent on forest produce.

Key Components

• Procurement of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) at MSP.
• Training in processing, packaging and branding.
• Modernisation of Haat Bazaars.
• Promotion through GI tagging, e-commerce and exhibitions.
• VDVKs act as procurement and processing centres.
• Each VDVK generally comprises 15 Van Dhan SHGs, with at least 60% ST members.

Minor Forest Produce (MFP)

• Under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, MFP refers to non-timber forest produce of plant origin.
• Examples: Bamboo, cane, tendu leaves, honey, lac and medicinal herbs.
• Forest dwellers have rights to own, collect, use and dispose of MFP under Section 3(1)(c).

PESA & MFP

• PESA Act, 1996 provides for ownership of MFP to Gram Sabhas/Panchayats in Fifth Schedule areas.
• Disposal includes the right to sell, process, store and transport MFP.

Significance

• Reduces exploitation of tribal gatherers by middlemen.
• Promotes value addition and tribal entrepreneurship.
• Strengthens livelihoods and economic empowerment of forest-dependent communities.