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India has the world’s second-largest tribal population, known as Adivasis, with around 100 million people. Tribes have been integral to Indian society since ancient times, maintaining unique traditions and cultures. Despite regional differences, many tribes share common traits like geographical isolation and social homogeneity. Major tribal settlements are in the northeastern states bordering China and Burma, and in the highlands and plains of central and southern India. While northeastern tribes are more isolated, southern and central tribes often interact with non-tribal communities. The Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes Commission, established in 1960, recognized Adivasis as India’s oldest ethnic groups. To improve their socio-economic conditions, the government has implemented various initiatives, including forming the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED). These efforts aim to support tribal livelihoods and promote economic development while preserving their cultural heritage.

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What is TRIFED?

Full form of TRIFED is Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India. Established in 1987, TRIFED is a national-level apex organization operating under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. TRIFED headquarters are in New Delhi, supported by a network of 15 regional offices across the country.

What is Minor Forest Produce (MFPs)?

Minor Forest Produce (MFP) refers to non-timber forest products obtained from forest areas. These products are usually plant-based and do not include major timber. MFPs play a crucial role in the livelihood of tribal and forest-dwelling communities, providing both subsistence and income.

Economically Important MFPs

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TRIFED Objectives

TRIFED has several key objectives:

1) TRIFED’s primary goal is the socio-economic development of tribal communities by promoting tribal product marketing.

2) Focuses on sustainable livelihood systems by ensuring fair prices and value addition to Non-Timber Forest Produce (Minor Forest Produce).

3) Provides a Minimum Support Price (MSP) to protect tribal incomes.

4) Empowers tribal people through capacity building, training, and forming Self Help Groups (SHGs).

5) Facilitates partnerships with Central/State Government agencies and development partners for coordinated efforts.

6) Acts as a facilitator and service provider to enhance tribal product marketing.

7) Supports brand creation and explores marketing opportunities in both national and international markets.

8) Aims to equip tribal communities with knowledge and tools to operate systematically and scientifically.

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TRIFED Functions

TRIFED undertakes activities with respect to its two main divisions viz. Minor Forest Produce (MFP) development and Retail Marketing and Development.

1.     Minor Forest Produce (MFP) development
2. a) Non-wood forest products, known as Minor Forest Produce (MFP), are a vital livelihood source for tribal communities.
3. b) MFP includes plant-based items like bamboo, canes, fodder, leaves, gums, waxes, dyes, resins, and various foods such as nuts, wild fruits, honey, lac, and tussar.
4. c) These products provide both subsistence and cash income, forming a significant part of daily needs like food, medicine, and other essentials.
5. d) Around 100 million people rely on MFP collection and marketing for their livelihood, according to the 2011 National Committee on Forest Rights Act report.
6. e) MFP contributes about 20-40% of annual income for those dependent on it, offering crucial support for food, shelter, medicine, and cash flow.
7. f) Women play a key role in collecting and selling MFP, linking its economic significance to women’s empowerment.

2)     Retail Marketing and Development

1. a) TRIFED works to enhance tribal livelihoods by creating sustainable markets and business opportunities.
2. b) Focuses on exploring long-term marketing possibilities for tribal products, building brands, and offering essential services.
3. c) Operates through a network of 14 regional offices that identify and source tribal products.
4. d) Markets these products through 73 TRIBES INDIA retail outlets nationwide.
5. e) Sources various handicrafts, handloom items, and natural and food products for retail and exhibitions.
6. f) Manages 35 self-owned showrooms and 8 consignment showrooms in collaboration with state-level organizations promoting tribal handicrafts.

3) Empanelment of Tribal Producer/Tribal Artisans

TRIFED sources products from empanelled tribal suppliers, including artisans, VDSHGs, and NGOs, following established guidelines. Suppliers are identified through partnerships with government bodies, NGOs, district officials, field visits, and Tribal Artisan Melas (TAMs). This system ensures a reliable network of tribal producers for sustainable marketing and business opportunities.

4) Nodal Agency for implementing the MSP for Minor Forest Produce (MSP) and VanDhan Vikas Karyakram

The tribal community’s growth largely depends on the development of Minor Forest Produce (MFP), which contributes 40-60% of their annual income, especially for women. However, issues like perishability, lack of storage, and exploitation by middlemen hinder fair pricing. To address this, the government launched the MSP for MFP Scheme and Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana in 2014, with TRIFED as the nodal agency. Despite efforts, the scheme remains a safety net rather than a driver of growth. To improve impact, the Van Dhan Yojana now focuses on value chain development, training, infrastructure, and quality certifications for greater product acceptance.

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TRIFED: Pradhan Mantri VAN DHAN Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) or Van Dhan Vikas Yojana (VDVY) is a scheme launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, with the aim of improving the livelihood of tribal communities in India. The scheme focuses on developing value chains for forest-based products and enhancing the income of tribal communities by providing them with skill training and capacity building.

The scheme has a three-tiered implementation process that involves the formation of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras at the village level, Van Dhan Vikas Sanrakshan Samitis at the cluster level, and Van Dhan Vikas Samuh at the district level. The scheme has a target of establishing 50,000 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras across the country, which will benefit around 10 lakh tribal entrepreneurs.

Launched on 14th April 2018, is part of the “Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through Minimum Support Price (MSP) & Development of Value Chain for MFP.” Implemented nationally by TRIFED, this initiative serves as a strategic plan for the socio-economic development of tribal communities. Key steps are outlined below:

•       An initiative targeting livelihood generation for tribal gatherers and transforming them into entrepreneurs.
•       The idea is to set-up tribal community-owned Van Dhan Vikas Kendra Clusters (VDVKCs) in predominantly forested tribal districts.
•       A VDVK Cluster shall constitute of 15 tribal SHGs / Van dhan Kendras, each comprising of up to 20 tribal NTFP gatherers or artisans i.e. about 300 beneficiaries per Cluster.
•       100% Central Government Funded with TRIFED providing Rs. 15 lakhs for each 300 member Van Dhan Kendra Cluster.

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TRIFED Benefits For Tribal Communities

TRIFED’s work has a direct impact:

• Higher income – Better prices for tribal goods.
• Employment – More jobs in processing and selling MFP.
• Preservation of culture – Traditional crafts and skills thrive.

TRIFED plays a crucial role in tribal development. Through schemes like Pradhan Mantri VAN DHAN Yojana and support for Minor Forest Produce, it helps tribes earn sustainable incomes. With its headquarters in Delhi and a clear mission since 1987, TRIFED continues to empower India’s tribal communities.

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TRIFED FAQs

What is TRIFED and when was it launched?

TRIFED, or the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India, was established in 1987. It operates under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to support the socio-economic development of tribal communities.

What is the full form of TRIFED and where is its headquarters located?

The full form of TRIFED is Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India. Its headquarters is located in New Delhi.

What is the purpose of TRIFED?

TRIFED aims to empower tribal communities by promoting the marketing of their products, ensuring fair prices for Minor Forest Produce (MFP), and enhancing livelihood opportunities through various schemes and capacity-building initiatives.

What is Minor Forest Produce (MFP) and why is it significant?

Minor Forest Produce refers to non-timber forest products like bamboo, honey, resins, and medicinal plants. It is a major source of income for tribal communities, contributing significantly to their livelihood.

What is Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) and how does TRIFED implement it?

Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) is a scheme launched in 2018 to enhance tribal incomes by promoting the value addition of Minor Forest Produce. TRIFED acts as the nodal agency, supporting the formation of Van Dhan Kendras to train tribal entrepreneurs and provide market access.