30, April 2026

Indigenous Practices and Minor Forest Produce (MFP) of South-West Tribes of Odisha: A Pathway to Economic Growth

VOLUME-9; ISSUE-4; APR-2026

Author(s): Dr. Parikhita Bhoi

Authors Affiliations:

Assistant Professor, School of Odia, Gangadhar Meher University, Sambalpur, Odisha, India

DOIs:10.2018/SS/202604014     |     Paper ID: SS202604013


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This study examines the role of indigenous practices and Minor Forest Produce (MFP) in shaping the livelihood and economic development of tribal communities in South-West Odisha, particularly in Kalahandi, Koraput, Rayagada, and Malkangiri districts. The research adopts a qualitative, descriptive approach using secondary data sources, including government reports and scholarly literature. The findings reveal that MFP plays a crucial role in sustaining tribal livelihoods, contributing significantly to household income, especially among semi-nomadic and forest-dependent tribes. However, issues such as lack of market access, inadequate storage facilities, exploitation by middlemen, and weak implementation of government policies hinder their economic progress. The study highlights the importance of strengthening value addition, ensuring fair pricing, and improving institutional support. It concludes that sustainable tribal development requires integrating indigenous knowledge systems with modern economic opportunities while preserving ecological balance.

Indigenous Knowledge Systems; Minor Forest Produce (MFP); Tribal Livelihoods; Sustainable Development; South-West Odisha

Dr. Parikhita Bhoi (2026): Indigenous practices and MFP of south-west tribes of Odisha: A Pathway of economic growth (Dist-kalahandi, Koraput, Rayagada, Malkangiri); Shikshan Sanshodhan : Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences,      ISSN(o): 2581-6241,  Volume – 9,   Issue –  4,  Available on –   https://shikshansanshodhan.researchculturesociety.org/

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