The government is considering a scheme to provide Minimum Support Price, MSP for the Minor Forest Produce, MFP gathered by tribals. It will help tribal people to enhance their income level and to also get assured returns .

Panchayati Raj and Tribal Affairs Minister V Kishore Chandra Deo, while presenting his ministry's report in New Delhi said, the scheme is expected to yield good social dividend as it will provide sustainable livelihood support to the tribals.

The Minister said that 13 MFPs have been listed in the proposed MSP Scheme. These include Tendu leave, Bamboo, Mahuwa seed, Wild Honey, chironjee and Lac. The MSP will be decided by MFP Price Commission and will be implemented by the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited.

Mr Deo said his ministry has also decided to start a scheme for strengthening Panchayats. It will look into the basic requirement like building, electricity, manpower and other expenses of Panchayats. The scheme will also require States to undertake reforms, devolve funds, strengthen State Election Commissions and setting up mahila Sabha where they do not exist.

He said the awards were given to 170 Panchayats this yearfor their exemplary work in various areas of their functioning. It has also encouraged other Panchayats to follow their path.