Accepted for publication in International Journal of Forest Usufructs Management, 9 (2): 2008 1 Role of Minor Forest Produce in the livelihoods of Gaddis: a Tribal Community in Bharmour region, Himachal Pradesh, India Sanjeev Sharma and Jitendra S. Butola * G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Himachal Unit, Mohal-Kullu 175 126, Himachal Pradesh, INDIA Abstract Himachal Pradesh, a fast growing Himalayan state, is well known for its varied topography, diverse culture, and rich biological diversity. Apart from agriculture and horticulture being prime occupation of native communities, collection, local marketing and exportation of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) contribute greatly to meet their day-to-day requirements and to augment economy of the State. The present study was carried out on MFP utilize by Gaddis Tribal Community in Bharmour Tehsil of District Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. The main focus was made to assess (i) procedure involved in collection, utilization and marketing of MFP; (ii) power of Gram Panchayats and ownerships right of the community related to MFP as they exist on paper and in reality and peoples’ perception on that; (ii) role of middle men, traders, Forest Department and other Officials and relation between Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Forest Department with regard to MFP; and (iii) efforts, if any, made by any authorities to regulate collection or promote cultivation of high value MFP in the area. Relevant information was gathered through conducting surveys in the area interviewing related persons including local peoples, PRIs, Forest Officials, Forest Guards and DRDA (District Rural Developmental Authority) as well as from secondary sources. An appropriate strategy for collection, marketing and sustainable utilization of MFP for the betterment of Gaddis has been suggested in detail. Keywords: Gaddis, Himalayan region, Minor Forest Produce, Medicinal Plants, Marketing, Sustainable Utilization Introduction India is recognized distinctly, not only because of its indescribable history, diverse culture and varied geography but also because of the great wealth of biological diversity in its forests, its wetlands and in its marine areas. The Himalayan region possesses congenial * Author for correspondence, E-mail: jiten_butola@yahoo.co.in; sanjuscorp@rediffmail.com +919418639385; +919418613054 (m)