Introduction

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) is a national-level cooperative body established to promote the socio-economic development of tribal communities in India. It functions under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.

TRIFED was established in 1987 under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 1984.

Objectives

• Ensure fair remuneration to tribal communities for Minor Forest Produce (MFP).
• Promote marketing and value addition of tribal products.
• Empower tribal artisans and forest dwellers through capacity building.
• Strengthen livelihood security and reduce exploitation by middlemen.

Core Functions

Marketing of Minor Forest Produce

• Procures MFP from tribal gatherers at Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• Facilitates processing, packaging, and branding.
• Reduces dependence on private traders.

Retail and Branding

• Operates under the brand name “TRIBES India.”
• Sells tribal handicrafts, handlooms, and natural products through retail outlets and e-commerce platforms.

Capacity Building

• Provides skill development and entrepreneurship training.
• Supports tribal self-help groups (SHGs) and producer groups.

Implementation of Government Schemes

• Nodal agency for the MSP for Minor Forest Produce Scheme.
• Implements the Van Dhan Vikas Yojana to promote value addition and enterprise creation.

Van Dhan Vikas Yojana

• Launched in 2018.
• Establishes Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs).
• Organizes tribal SHGs into clusters for value addition of forest produce.
• Enhances income through local processing and market linkage.

Minimum Support Price (MSP) for MFP

• Covers various non-timber forest products such as tamarind, mahua seed, lac, sal seed, and honey.
• Protects tribal gatherers from price fluctuations and exploitation.

Significance

• Strengthens tribal livelihoods through market integration.
• Promotes sustainable harvesting of forest resources.
• Encourages tribal entrepreneurship.
• Supports inclusive growth and rural economic development.

Challenges

• Limited awareness among tribal communities in remote areas.
• Logistical and infrastructure constraints.
• Need for greater value addition and branding at global scale.
• Competition from private intermediaries.

Conclusion

TRIFED plays a critical institutional role in promoting tribal welfare through market-based interventions. By linking tribal producers to national and international markets, it contributes to economic empowerment, sustainable forest use, and inclusive development.