Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Vikas Yojana: Empowering Tribal Livelihoods Through Sustainable Practices

Abstract

The Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Vikas Yojana (PMVDY), launched in 2018 by the Government of India, is a flagship initiative aimed at improving the livelihoods of tribal communities through the sustainable utilization and value addition of Minor Forest Produce (MFP). Implemented by the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), the scheme promotes skill development, entrepreneurship, market linkages, and the establishment of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) for processing and marketing forest-based products. PMVDY enhances tribal incomes while encouraging sustainable harvesting practices, biodiversity conservation, and preservation of indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage. By fostering Self-Help Groups (SHGs), improving infrastructure, and facilitating financial inclusion, the scheme contributes significantly to inclusive rural development. With nearly 3,958 VDVKs and over 11.83 lakh tribal beneficiaries across India, PMVDY has emerged as a successful model for tribal empowerment, livelihood security, and sustainable socio-economic development through community-based forest resource management.