International Journal of Environment and Climate Change

Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh is a transitional zone between Tropical dry deciduous forest to Tropic moist deciduous forest, making it a unique and biologically rich landscape. The dominant tree species here are Tectona grandis (Teak) and Shorea robusta (Sal) which form the backbone of these forests, each supporting a distinct set of associated flora shaped by local climate and soil conditions. These forest ecosystems are home to a wide variety of Non-Wood Forest Produce (NWFP) species that are intricately linked to the livelihoods of local tribal and rural communities. Among the most significant NWFPs found in the region are Madhuca species (commonly known as Mahua), Diospyros melanoxylon (Tendu), Buchanania lanzan, Boswellia serrata, and Embelia basal. This study attempts to explore the plant diversity and distribution patterns of key NWFP species across the major forest types of central India. The research methodlogy involves laying of total of 237 sampling plots using systematic random sampling and 10 by 10 meter square quadrats, covering two territorial forest divisions and one wildlife-protected area. Data analysis was carried out using tools like QGIS, Microsoft Excel, and PAST software. The findings revealed high levels of biodiversity in both Teak and Sal forests, with Shannon-Weiner and Simpson diversity indices indicating robust species richness (Teak: 4.835, 0.99; Sal: 4.167, 0.98). Among the NWFP species, Shorea robusta showed the highest density, while Madhuca species were frequently found near agricultural fields on the outskirts of villages, highlighting their close link to community life. Diospyros melanoxylon was more frequently recorded in Teak forests than in Sal forests. The Importance Value Index (IVI)—a measure of a species' ecological significance—was also higher for Madhuca species (3.26 in Teak vs. 2.82 in Sal) and Diospyros melanoxylon (28.41 in Teak vs. 11.10 in Sal), suggesting their stronger presence and role in Teak-dominated areas. The result implies that both Teak and Sal forests in Mandla are rich in NWFP species and play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of local communities. Species like Mahua and Tendu are not just forest products they are lifelines for many families in the region. However, their distribution tends to be more prominent in Teak forests, likely due to microclimatic conditions that favor their growth and could be a matter of further investigation. These insights emphasize the importance of tailoring forest management practices to specific forest types, in order to sustainably harness the livelihood potential of NWFPs while conserving the ecological richness of the region.