MSP for MFP

The scheme for providing minimum support price for minor forest produce is being discussed as an efficient way of supporting forest dependent people during the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

About the Scheme

The minimum support price (MSP) for minor forest produce (MFP) scheme was introduced in 2013. It is a social security scheme introduced for labourers who are dependent on the forest. It provides a fair price for the gatherers of non-timber forest produce.

Implementation

The nodal ministry for the implementation of the scheme is the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The nodal agency for the scheme is TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation)- which will monitor the implementation through state level designated agencies.

MFPs

The minor forest produce covered under the scheme includes several non-timber products like bamboo, brush wood, stumps, cane, tussar, cocoons, honey, wax, lac, tendu or kendu leaves, medicinal plants and herbs, roots, tubers, etc. The MFPs are of plant origin.