Planting trees, protecting forests, and enhancing tribal livelihoods: A model for sustainable development

By Bharat Dogra* 

As the climate crisis intensifies, the need to grow more trees and protect existing forests has become urgent. Equally critical is ensuring that forest-dependent communities, especially tribal groups, can secure sustainable livelihoods. A promising example of how these goals can be combined comes from the grassroots initiatives of the voluntary organization SRIJAN.

SRIJAN has taken a twin-track approach: in villages far from natural forests, it promotes the creation of indigenous “tapovans”—dense village forests using native tree species. In contrast, villages closer to natural forests focus on improving income through sustainable use of non-timber forest produce (NTFP), such as wild fruits and leaves, without harming forest ecosystems.

Tapovans are guided by ecological principles and modeled loosely on the methods of Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki but adapted for local conditions. These small forests are carefully designed using a diverse mix of canopy trees, shrubs, and undergrowth—all indigenous species planted in a way that supports mutual growth. Chemical fertilizers are strictly avoided, and the land is first enriched with layers of organic manure.

The commitment of the village community is key to the success of these forests. In Markhera village of Madhya Pradesh’s Tikamgarh district, for example, villagers not only helped plant nearly 1,800 trees of 36 indigenous species but also ensured nearly 100% survival—a remarkable achievement reflecting deep local ownership and care.

SRIJAN is also encouraging small farmers to plant fruit orchards on part of their land using natural farming methods, further increasing green cover while enhancing income.

A parallel initiative in Rajasthan's Pali and Udaipur districts has empowered tribal Garasia women to earn better incomes through sustainable NTFP harvesting and value addition. Central to this effort is the Ghoomar Mahila Producer Company Ltd., which has around 2,000 women shareholders and is expanding. With technical support from SRIJAN, Ghoomar has built a decentralized system for the collection, processing, and marketing of local forest produce such as custard apple (sitafal), blackberries (jamun), and berries (ber).

The enterprise produces a range of items—from custard apple pulp used in natural ice creams to blackberry-based drinks and sweets, as well as eco-friendly products like natural colors from Palash flowers and biodegradable leaf plates and cups. These value-added products have not only increased the incomes of tribal women significantly—many now earn ₹25,000 to ₹80,000 annually from forest produce—but also promoted forest conservation.

This success is due to three key factors: fairer purchase prices for forest produce, the development of local value chains through small processing units, and employment opportunities for women trained in hygiene-compliant food processing.

Women often trek through hills to gather produce, making their earnings well-deserved. But beyond income, the emphasis is on sustainability. Ghoomar members are committed to responsible harvesting that does not damage trees or waste unripe fruit—unlike external agents from big markets who often encourage harmful, indiscriminate collection to maximize short-term gains.

As a community-based enterprise, Ghoomar has an inherent interest in preserving the forests that support their livelihoods. Members are encouraged to spread seeds after fruit processing and receive regular training in ecological harvesting. The deep trust between the women, their self-help groups, and Ghoomar has strengthened this model.

Close coordination between Ghoomar’s CEO Jitendra Meena and Saddam Husain Chisti, who heads the federation of self-help groups, has further enhanced the initiative's effectiveness. Their collaboration offers a powerful model of synergy between producer companies and community-based federations.

This initiative is not just about trees and income. It represents a hopeful and replicable model of how forest regeneration, ecological conservation, and sustainable tribal livelihoods can go hand in hand. With greater policy and institutional support, such grassroots innovations can play a crucial role in India's ecological and social transformation.

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*The writer is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Man Over Machine, Saving Earth for Children, A Day in 2071, and India’s Quest for Sustainable Farming and Healthy Food