Forest Policies and Management Issues for Economic Prosperity: Non-Timber Forest Products in Nepal

Non-timber forest products are of great importance to large numbers of people whose livelihood depends for forest resources. With recognition of NTFPs contribution in livelihood and economy, many countries' forest policies have been revised with inclusion of NTFPs development provision to certain extent. Still, most of policies including Nepal have failed to address the role NTFPs in poverty reduction. The study aims in analyzing the existing forest policies regarding non-timber forest products and the conservation and management practices being carried underlying the livelihood development of rural dwellers. Along with literature review, interview with user groups and elite persons was carried out to understand the development plan from government and community level. Herbs and NTFPs Development policy is responsible in sustainable conservation of NTFPs promoting their commercialization, still the policy reserves space for implementation. The study urges the effective role of government in NTFPs sustainable conservation and management process to promote livelihood of forest dependents.