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An
overview ; on diversity of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP)
in Sikkim Himalaya
Tika Prasad Sharma
Department of Forest, Env.&
W/L
Management, Deorali- 737102, Gangtok, Sikkim
Sikkim,
lies in the Eastern Himalaya between 27°5’-28°9’N
latitude and 87°9’ to 88°56’E longitude, covering an area of
7096 Sq km with an elevation ranging from 250 to 8595m above
alms. Due to its unique geographical position, varied
topography, high annual precipitation, and maximum humidity
make one of the richest botanical areas of the country. Nearly
46% of the total geographical area of the state is covered by
forest (Forest survey of India, 2003). These forest posses a
very wide range of biological diversity not only
in the variety of trees and wild
life but also in the species of Non –timber forest products (NTFPs).
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have been defined as all
goods of biological origin other than wood in all its forms,
as well as services derived from forests or any other land
under similar use. The NTFPS being mostly short rotation
species can also be termed as the cash crop of the forestry
sector in the sense that while tree crops take a long time to
mature and yield. NTFPs play a significant role in the rural
economy and daily livelihood of the rural communities, which
have been used commonly as medicine, fiber, food, vegetable,
agricultural implements, construction of houses, making rope,
handicrafts, household articles etc. The use of NTFPs is
intergral part of our traditional and cultural systems and
practice that have developed and accumulated over generation.
And it is one of the most important components for creating
employment opportunities and providing a sustainable source of
livelihood to the rural communities in our state. Although a
very wide range of NTFPs are being used in Sikkim, but major
among them are bamboo, medicinal plant and rattans.
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Rhododendron
Amongst the many
floral treaties of Sikkim Himalaya one of the earliest ones may be
found over the genus Rhododendron (Gk. rhodo = red, dendrons = tree
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Orchid
Orchid
known for their brilliance in colors, unusual shapes
attractive growth habits, variety in fragrance and
exquisite beauty can attract any nature lovers.
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Medicinal Plant
Sikkim
with its total geographical area of 7,096 sq km is
bestowed with a huge diversity of flora and fauna.
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