Indigenous pattern of collection and utilization of NWFPs and socio-economic sustainability for tribal women of Central Chhattisgarh

Tribal women perform a variety of forest-based functions in their day-to-day activity at different levels but their roles and participation tend to be poorly visible and unacknowledged. Considering women's relationships with collection, utilization and processing they perform significant role and responsibility in sustainable management of NWFPs. The gathering of everyday NWFPs particularly food, medicinal plant parts and craft materials, has always fallen into the domain of women. NWFPs have widespread promotion of these products, particularly by agencies interested in sustainable development, as tools for enhancing livelihood of women. For this purpose, a review study has been conducted by reviewing of 24 relevant Research papers, articles and Forest Department office. As compared to male, female is more compatible for collection of various plant-based medicines from locally available NWFPs which includes more significant, bamboo, tendu, cocoons and mahua and so many other types of locally available known minor forest produces. Providing better support, opportunity, training and documentation on their knowledge would enhance healthcare, food sources, livelihood, involvement of women and socio-economic condition in sustainable NWFPs management.