Do socio-economic factors impact non-timber forest products based incomes: an analysis employing structural equation modelling (SEM); a case of India

Abstract

Abstract The examination of the use pattern of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and their contribution in connection to socioeconomic determinants is crucial for the formulation of welfare and development efforts targeted at communities reliant on NTFPs. A study was conducted in the Khunti district of Jharkhand, India, including 62 villages and involving a total of 387 respondents. The survey was conducted using structured questionnaires. Additionally, focused group discussions and transect walks were conducted to supplement the results. The findings indicated that a majority of the individuals involved in the upstream activities are female, accounting for 70% of the total population. The income derived from non-timber forest products (NTFP) was influenced by many factors including socioeconomic, ecological, and demographic variables as determined by five capital evaluations. The results indicate that individuals get a substantial proportion of their earnings from the collection of non-timber forest products (NTFPs). Nevertheless, the degree and distribution of household income dependence on NTFPs exhibit notable variations across different socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. The intensity of non-timber forest product (NTFP)-based income in families is influenced by several factors including women's roles, education level, age, landholding, household size, and the number of children. It is determined that the incorporation of socio-economic-ecological and demographic factors is crucial in the development of a proficient forest management plan and policy for the management of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and the preservation of forests. This necessitates the active participation of populations reliant on NTFPs.