Objectives of VDVKs in Wayanad

The core objectives of the VDVKs in Wayanad are:

• Value Addition: Focus on enhancing the value of raw forest products through processing, packaging, and branding.
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• Livelihood Improvement: Creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for tribal communities through skill development, capacity building, and market access.
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• Empowerment: Empowering tribal women and marginalized sections of society by providing them with training and tools for value-added production.
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• Market Linkages: Facilitating better market access for tribal products, thereby ensuring fair pricing and higher earnings for the community.
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• Environmental Sustainability: Promoting sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the conservation of forests while supporting livelihoods.

Functions and Activities of VDVKs in Wayanad

The eight VDVKs in Wayanad are operational and engage in various activities, primarily focusing on the value addition of forest products. Some key functions include:

• Processing of Forest Products: Each VDVK works on processing raw forest produce into value-added products. For instance, honey collected from forest areas is processed, packaged, and marketed under the brand name of the VDVK. Similarly, other products such as bamboo, spices, and herbal products are processed and refined to enhance their market value.
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• Training and Capacity Building: Regular training programs are conducted for tribal community members, especially women, to build their skills in processing, packaging, and marketing forest products. The focus is also on teaching modern techniques in production, hygiene, and product quality management.
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• Tribal Entrepreneurship Development: The VDVKs encourage entrepreneurship among tribal youth and women by offering the necessary support for setting up small businesses based on the value-added products. This has not only created new income sources but has also promoted self-reliance.
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• Product Diversification: Apart from honey, medicinal plants, and spices, the VDVKs have also diversified into producing value-added bamboo crafts, fruit preserves, and oils extracted from forest herbs. This diversification helps increase the revenue potential from a wide range of forest-based resources.
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• Collaboration with TRIFED and Other Agencies: The VDVKs in Wayanad collaborate with TRIFED, state government agencies, and NGOs to enhance the operational efficiency of the centers. They also participate in various tribal fairs and exhibitions to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers.
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• Timeline: There is no specific timeline for application. Community can approach to their CDS or district mission offices based upon demand.

Impact of Van Dhan Vikas Yojana in Wayanad

The implementation of the Van Dhan Vikas Yojana has had several positive impacts on the tribal communities in Wayanad:

• Improved Incomes: By focusing on the value addition of forest products, the VDVKs have significantly increased the income of tribal families. The added value of processed products allows tribal communities to fetch better prices, leading to improved livelihoods.
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• Gender Empowerment: The majority of the beneficiaries in the VDVKs are women, and the scheme has contributed to their economic empowerment. Women are not only involved in the production process but also in decision-making and management activities, thereby increasing their social and economic status.
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• Capacity Building: The training and skill development programs have enhanced the capabilities of the tribal people, enabling them to manage production units, improve product quality, and meet market demands. This has led to increased self-sufficiency and reduced dependency on external factors.
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• Sustainable Use of Forest Resources: Through sustainable practices promoted by the VDVKs, tribal communities are learning to use forest resources responsibly, ensuring their conservation for future generations.
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• Market Linkages: The VDVKs have established connections with local and national markets, allowing the tribal community to sell their products at better prices. The branding and packaging of the products have helped them stand out in competitive markets.

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Academic and R&D institutions provide support for enterprises

Academic and R&D institutions provide support for quality control and product development to SHGs and others, in line with market requirements. This support should include technical assistance and expertise to meet global standards.

It is to create a robust support system for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and related entities that ensures adherence to international quality standards and fosters product development tailored to market needs.

These institutions actively provide expertise and resources to support to the micro enterprises in trading and manufacturing of forest based products, enhancing the value chain from raw materials to market ready products.

Also, these institutions provide SHGs with expertise in quality control and product innovation, thereby positioning them for success in trade and expanding their market reach. Following are the list of institutions that provide their support to tribal enterprises in Kerala.