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MAY 23: In a concerted effort to uplift tribal communities in Jammu and Kashmir, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), in collaboration with the Department of Tribal Affairs and the Jammu and Kashmir State Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKSRLM), organized a comprehensive workshop in Jammu. The event was aimed at bolstering tribal welfare and promoting sustainable, inclusive development across the Union Territory.
The workshop brought together senior officials, tribal representatives, development practitioners, and stakeholders from across J&K to discuss a wide array of initiatives designed to strengthen the tribal economy. Central to the discussions were the establishment and expansion of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs), the implementation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce (MFP), the promotion of Tribes India retail outlets, and initiatives focused on skill development and capacity building.
Participants explored the progress and challenges in implementing the Van Dhan Yojana, a flagship scheme that supports tribal gatherers through value addition, marketing, and enterprise development around forest-based products. By transforming VDVKs into functional and profitable tribal-run businesses, the initiative aims to increase income levels and foster self-reliance.
The MSP for MFP component was also discussed in detail, highlighting its importance in ensuring fair prices for tribal collectors and protecting them from market exploitation. The workshop emphasized the need to raise awareness among tribal communities about MSP schemes and enhance procurement mechanisms across forest regions.
Additionally, the introduction and expansion of Tribes India outlets in Jammu and Kashmir were spotlighted as vital to bringing tribal products to mainstream markets. These outlets provide a national platform for traditional crafts, handlooms, and organic goods produced by tribal artisans, thereby preserving culture while driving economic opportunity.
Another focal point was tribal skill development, with an emphasis on training programs that align with local needs and market demands. The goal is to empower tribal youth with relevant skills and connect them to income-generating opportunities.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to tribal empowerment, noting that these initiatives would contribute significantly to inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and the social and economic integration of tribal populations in Jammu and Kashmir. The workshop concluded with a shared vision for a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous tribal future.