The Central government is strengthening the country's tribal forest economy through the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (PMJVM). Under this scheme, tribals are being provided the benefit of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and value addition for minor forest produce.
According to an official release by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), many of the country's 10.4 crore Scheduled Tribes derive 20 to 40 percent of their annual income from Minor Forest Produce (MFP). Tribals sell this produce in the market through Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs). By March 2026, 4,172 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have been approved across the country, connecting 12.48 lakh tribal members. Sales of approximately ₹168 crore have been recorded through these centres up to July 31, 2026.
Formation and structure of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras
This mission organizes tribal collectors into Self-Help Groups (SHGs). A cluster of 15 Self-Help Groups comprising about 300 tribals is linked to a Van Dhan Vikas Kendra. According to the rules, at least 60 percent of the members of a Van Dhan Vikas Kendra must belong to Scheduled Tribe communities.
Through these centres, the government provides tribals with scientific harvesting, primary processing equipment, working capital, storage, and transport assistance. In addition, help is also provided in branding and marketing products through fairs, exhibitions, and e-commerce platforms.
Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada and digital initiatives
A Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada is being observed across the country by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs from November 1 to November 15, 2026. It will conclude on November 15 with the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
On this occasion, over 300 projects will be launched for tribal communities in various states, with 228 projects ready for inauguration and 74 projects for foundation stone laying. Along with this, the Jan-Hit portal and the National Forest Rights Act digital platform will also be launched.