Are we Extracting Non-timber Forest Products (NTFPs) on Sustainable Basis in India?: Current Evidences, Causes and Remedial Policy Framework

The extraction of non timber forest products in the world has increased rapidly during the last two decades as markets for these products has developed internationally. As a result, a large number of NTFPs have been extracted beyond sustainable limits. Frequent occurrences of unsustainable extractions is challenging the old thinking that harvesting of NTFPs should concur to the sustainable forest management. This study assesses the global impacts of extraction practices in general with special focus upon India. A new thinking is needed to tackle the non-sustainability of NTFPs due to over-extraction. The study suggests a remedial policy framework for India to be adopted with stringent requirement for making harvesting decisions.