Forests and economic welfare

A single dimensional measure of economic welfare in terms of per capita income has neglected the contribution of the non-timber benefits of forests; hence forests have not received their due weight in literature on the development process. Advocates a multi-dimensional measure of economic welfare. Presents, at the global level, an overview of the contribution of non-timber forest products and at the micro level a case study from India. Highlights a more complete evaluation of the contribution of forests, and focuses on the economic contribution of forest resources to household income, income distribution, and spread of income over the year.Developing countries, Distribution, Forest products, Income, India, Rural economy