MARKET LINKAGES OF TRIBAL COOPERATIVES
Context:
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, through TRIFED, is implementing the ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission’ (PMJVM).
- This scheme provides backward linkages by empanelling tribal artisans for procurement of their products and forward linkages through market sales via ‘Tribes India’ outlets, e-commerce portals, and other channels.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Government policies and interventions)
Key Highlights:
- Procurement and Sales Data:
- 2021-2022: Procurement – Rs 2900.33 lakhs, Sales – Rs 4342.32 lakhs
- 2022-2023: Procurement – Rs 1520.31 lakhs, Sales – Rs 3574.09 lakhs
- 2023-2024: Procurement – Rs 1804.16 lakhs, Sales – Rs 3607.22 lakhs
About ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission’ (PMJVM):
- Nature of Scheme: A Central Sector Scheme with 100% Grant-in-aid from the Government of India to TRIFED.
- Coverage: All States and UTs with notified or migrated tribal populations from 2021-22 to 2025-26.
- Implementing Agencies: TRIFED at the central level, with State Implementing Agencies (SIAs) nominated by State Governments.
- Funding: Provided to TRIFED based on proposals submitted to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- Scope: Establishing marketing mechanisms for tribal products, value addition of MFPs/non-MFPs, and improving tribal livelihoods.
- Database Management: Digitization and automation of scheme activities for real-time monitoring.
- Administrative Expenses: Funding includes salaries and establishment costs for TRIFED employees.
Major Activities Supported under PMJVM:
- MSP fixation and procurement of non-timber MFPs.
- Infrastructure development, including Haat Bazars and storage facilities.
- Value addition to tribal products.
- Setting up Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) and Van Dhan Producer Enterprises (VDPEs).
- Marketing and sale of tribal products.
- Advertisement and branding through festivals, exhibitions, and melas.
- Skill and entrepreneurship development.
- Geo-tagging and geographical indicators of tribal products.
- IT and e-commerce platform development.
- Surveys and R&D.
Implementation Mechanism:
- TRIFED will be the central nodal agency, signing MoUs with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and State Nodal Departments annually.
- Annual Action Plans will be prepared and submitted for grant release.
- An MFP Pricing Cell will fix MSPs for MFPs, with revolving funds provided for procurement if market prices fall below MSP.
- Infrastructure projects will be approved by a Project Appraisal Committee.
- Financial support for VDVKs and VDPEs will be provided, with specific allocations for various activities.
- TRIFED will develop a portal for tribal products and impart training for capacity building.
- Special attention will be given to Aspirational Districts, PVTGs, and land title holders under FRA 2006.
Significance:
- Economic Empowerment: Enhances livelihood opportunities for tribal communities by providing a robust marketing mechanism.
- Sustainable Development: Promotes value addition and sustainable practices in the procurement and sale of tribal products.
- Digital Inclusion: Encourages digitization and automation for efficient management and real-time monitoring of scheme activities.
- Capacity Building: Focuses on skill development and entrepreneurship among tribal populations, fostering long-term economic growth.
- Inclusivity: Prioritizes support for vulnerable groups, ensuring inclusive development and participation in economic activities.
