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@article{208889,
        author = {Santosh Kumar and Dinesh Kumar Bharti},
        title = {Diversity, Utilization and Socio-Economic Importance of Non-Timber Forest Products in Rural Communities of Bahraich District, Uttar Pradesh, India},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {5},
        pages = {67-80},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=208889},
        abstract = {Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) are important forest resources supporting rural livelihoods in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. This study assesses the diversity, utilisation, socio-economic importance, marketing, and sustainability challenges of NTFPs in Bahraich district, with particular reference to communities around Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. An exploratory and descriptive approach was adopted using household surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, key-informant interviews, and secondary sources. The study identified diverse NTFPs, including edible fruits, honey, medicinal plants, bamboo, leaves, grasses, gums, resins, mushrooms, seeds, and fodder. These products contribute to supplementary household income, seasonal employment, food security, traditional healthcare, and livelihood diversification. However, inadequate storage and processing facilities, limited value addition, fluctuating prices, poor market access, dependence on intermediaries, and unsustainable harvesting practices constrain their livelihood potential. Strengthening community-based institutions, value addition, local processing, market linkages, sustainable harvesting, and institutional support can improve economic returns while reducing pressure on forest resources. The study concludes that sustainable NTFP management, integrated with community participation and biodiversity conservation, can strengthen rural livelihoods and contribute to sustainable development in Bahraich and the wider Terai region of Uttar Pradesh.},
        keywords = {Non-Timber Forest Products, Rural Livelihoods, Bahraich, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, Forest Economy, Sustainable Harvesting.},
        month = {October},
        }