Improving Rural Livelihood Opportunities…Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana

Promoting Tribal Enterprise through value addition, branding and marketing of Forest Produces is the major focus of Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY). The Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India focuses on building value chains for Minor Forest Products (MFPs).

A value-addition training programme on Banana Fibre Handicraft was conducted at Rongdan Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK), Resubelpara, Meghalaya, benefitting 15 participants. The training commenced on 10th November 2025 and is currently in progress. The focus is on developing capacity in banana fibre extraction, processing techniques and in creating functional & marketable handicraft products, thereby supporting sustainable income opportunities for the participants.

Another important training programme on Beekeeping & Honey Processing was held at Mendima VDVK, Kharkutta, Meghalaya from November 11 to 15, 2025. 15 Participants received hands-on exposure to scientific beekeeping practices, hive management, honey extraction and post-harvest handling techniques essential for quality production and enterprise development.

These capacity-building programmes empowered communities to leverage locally available forest resources under PMVDY and generate sustainable income.