Sustainable Livelihood Enhancement through Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs): Opportunities and Challenges of Kadar Tribes in Kerala

The Kadar tribe is one among the five Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Kerala. The livelihoods of these forest-dwelling populations depend significantly on collecting and selling Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and other forest-based resources. This qualitative study explores the opportunities and challenges faced by the Kadar tribes in Thrissur district, Kerala, in achieving sustainable livelihoods through Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). This study also seeks to identify and understand the challenges encountered in the collection and marketing of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) by the Kadar tribes. Data were collected from four key informants with extensive experience working with Kadar settlements in Thrissur district. The conclusions and recommendations were derived from the thematic analysis of the collected data, presented in case study format. Instability in the quantity of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) collected from the forest, along with shifting livelihood patterns among younger generations, is evident.