Thu Feb 05 14:55:42 UTC 2026: ### Sharp Dip in Government Procurement of Minor Forest Produce Raises Concerns

The Story:
Government procurement of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) at Minimum Support Price (MSP) witnessed a dramatic decrease in 2024-25, according to data presented in Parliament on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The procurement across 19 states plummeted by over 92% compared to the previous year (2023-24). Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram tabled the data in response to a question from Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, revealing that the Ministry had released ₹319.65 crore to State governments for MFP procurement. While some states experienced increases, others, including Odisha, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh, saw significant declines.

Despite the overall drop in procurement, the government highlighted its efforts to strengthen MSP for MFP, increasing the number of eligible items from 10 in 2013-14 to 87. They also pointed to investments in Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) to support tribal self-help groups in marketing their produce.

Key Points:

  • MFP procurement at MSP dropped by over 92% from 2023-24 to 2024-25.
  • In 2022-23, 26,744 MT of MFP was procured, worth ₹94.23 crore.
  • In 2023-24, 51,400 MT of MFP was procured, worth ₹124.3 crore.
  • In 2024-25, only 3,920.2 MT of MFP was procured, worth around ₹16.68 crore.
  • The government has notified 87 types of MFP eligible for MSP procurement, up from 10 in 2013-14.
  • ₹612.12 crore has been sanctioned for the establishment of 4,125 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) since 2019-20.
  • The government stated that there are no current plans to expand the TRIFED retail outlet network.

Critical Analysis:
(Not applicable)

Key Takeaways:

  • The sharp decline in MFP procurement in 2024-25 raises concerns about the impact on tribal communities who rely on forest produce for their livelihoods.
  • The discrepancy in procurement levels across different states suggests varying levels of implementation or challenges at the state level.
  • Despite the government’s emphasis on supporting MFP procurement, the significant drop indicates a potential disconnect between policy and on-the-ground realities.
  • The absence of a clear explanation for the procurement drop in the government’s response necessitates further investigation.
  • The rejection of Wayanad’s proposal for MFP procurement raises questions regarding the accessibility and equity of the PMJVM scheme across different constituencies.

Impact Analysis:

  • The sharp drop in MFP procurement, if sustained, could lead to economic hardship for tribal communities, potentially increasing poverty and food insecurity.
  • This situation may necessitate a review of the current MSP mechanism and its implementation, potentially leading to policy changes or increased resource allocation.
  • Continued decline could undermine the government’s stated commitment to tribal welfare and sustainable forest management.

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