Constraints Faced by Tribal Farmers in Seeking Livelihood Security through Forest Based Resources

Abstract

Tribal farmers in India depend heavily on forests for livelihoods, but face challenges like insecure land rights, poor market access, weak institutional support, and climate change. Rajasthan state blessed with Aravali as wall of nature and have significant population of different tribal groups. This study surveyed 240 farmers in Udaipur and Pratapgarh, Rajasthan, using a three-point scale to rank key constraints. Results highlight major barriers to livelihood security and point to the need for targeted policies and sustainable forest management. A total of 30 major constraints were identified and categorized into eight thematic areas: Legal and Regulatory Constraints, Marketing Constraints, Financial Constraints, Land Encroachment and Deforestation Constraints, Socio-Cultural Constraints, Technical Knowledge Constraints, Social and Institutional Support, and Shifting Agricultural Practices. The Mean Percentage Score (MPS) was calculated for each constraint statement to assess its severity and significance as perceived by the farmers. Based on the MPS values, constraints were ranked to determine their relative importance. The findings provide critical insights into the most pressing challenges faced by tribal communities and offer a basis for policymakers, development agencies, and extension workers to design focused interventions aimed at improving the livelihood security of tribal farmers through sustainable use of forest resources. Tribal farmers in Rajasthan face common challenges like land insecurity and poor market access, but water scarcity and harsh climatic conditions make their struggles more severe than in many other states. Infrastructure and service delivery are also more limited in Rajasthan’s tribal regions.