Non Timber Forest Produces Utilization Distribution and Status in a Trekking Corridor of Sikkim

Sikkim Himalaya is endowed with wide variety of non-timber forest produce (NTFP). The ethno-cultural fabrics of this tiny state are rich in traditional practices. As a result, the people living in the Khangchendzonga complex use these natural resources in various ways for their subsistence. The study recorded 94 odd numbers of NTFPs from the area. Above 50% of these species are marketed in the local Hats with a minimum price, which otherwise have good potential in local economy. Overexploitation of NTFP is bringing some visible threat to these species in these areas. About 10% of the total species distribution was found to be a concern for conservation. Some of the high value medicinal plants have potential for value addition as well as domestication. Therefore, a proper strategic plan is needed for conservation of these valuable resources and for sustainable development