Non-Timber Forest Products

This paper attempts an exploration of synergistic opportunities for livelihoods and conservation connected with non-timber forest products in view of the increasing demand for these resources in the local, regional and international markets. It also discusses the evolution of the management of such products on a broader scale in terms of policies and institutional arrangements and the dilemmas, challenges and complexities associated with the resource along with potential strategies to overcome them. An analysis of existing, relevant literature, with examples drawn from parts of the developing world along with experiences from India has been presented. Using the specific case of the wild harvested medicinal plant sector in Kerala, certification as a potential strategy to achieve a win-win scenario is hypothesised. Lessons gathered from studies reporting successful implementation of non-timber forest products certification are provided along with research gaps and future directions.