Marketing Facilitation for Improving Livelihoods of Tribal Producers. (October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shankar, S. Bhavani
• Is Part Of: International journal of rural management. Volume 10:Number 2(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 93
• Page End: 120
• Publication Date: 2014-10
• Subjects: Marketing facilitation -- interlocked markets -- tribal producers -- livelihoods; Rural development -- Management -- Periodicals; Rural development projects -- Periodicals; 307.1412
• DOI: 10.1177/0973005214546593
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0973-0052

Abstract

Government regulations constrained tribals' integration with market economy and its benefits. Marketing facilitation institutions established by Government of India for minor forest produce trade had severe limitations. In this regard, an alternative to supplement or compliment government's work is necessary to improve tribal livelihoods. Non-government organizations (NGOs) which gained importance since seventh five-year plan were taking efforts for linking tribals to markets. Dhruva is one such NGO established in Gujarat state. Through orchard programme, it created alternative asset base for tribal producers and established production, processing and marketing facilities. It also created community-based organizations to sustain activities in the long run. This article, based on qualitative research, presents an analysis of Dhruva's efforts in integrating tribal producers with markets and changes taking place in their livelihoods.