THE IMPACT OF CHALGHUZA PINE NUTS PRODUCTION ON LIVELIHOOD OF THE INHABITANTS OF SUB DIVISION DARAZINDA DISTRICT DERA ISMAIL KHAN

Abstract

This study examines the socio-economic impact of Chalghuza pine-nut (Pinus gerardiana) production on the livelihoods of inhabitants in Sub-Division Darazinda, District Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan. Given the region’s limited agricultural capacity, Chalghuza pine forests represent a critical non-timber forest product and a primary income source for local communities. Using a purposive sampling technique, data were collected through structured questionnaires from 140 producers engaged in pine-nut harvesting from the Takht-e-Suleiman mountain forests. Both descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were employed to evaluate the influence of natural, human, financial, and physical capital on household income. Results reveal that 97% of respondents consider Chalghuza pine-nut collection their main livelihood source, with an average seasonal production of 122 kg per producer and mean earnings of PKR 1,382,500. Regression analysis indicates that the number of trees owned (natural capital), harvesting experience (human capital), government assistance (financial capital), and site accessibility (physical capital) significantly affect annual income. The findings highlight the species’ economic importance and the dependency of rural livelihoods on sustainable forest management. Policy implications include the need for improved market access, training in sustainable harvesting techniques, and infrastructure development to enhance economic benefits while conserving forest resources. This study provides empirical evidence for policymakers and development practitioners to integrate non-timber forest products into rural development strategies.