Juhi Singh

The present article reveals the potential of underutilized fruits as well as awakening the consciousness for health and nutritional aspect when added to the food basket. The fruits like aonla, jamun, chironji, kamrak, chakotra and many more are not only highly rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers but also are good source of livelihood for tribals and people living in rural areas. About 36 to 40 percent of the geographical area of Sonbhadra district is covered with dry mixed deciduous forest inhabiting several valuable tree species and medicinal plants. The forest is source of livelihood for many tribals living in that area and they are dependent on it for food, medicine and shelter. Some plants whose fruits are underutilized in urban areas but are of much use in areas where tribals are living are Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr, Alangium salviifolium L.f. (Wangerin), Annona squamosa L., Atrocarpus lakoocha Roxb., Averrhoa carambola L., Carissa carandas L., Cordia dichotoma G. Frost., Ferona limonia L. Swingle, Grewia asiatica L. etc. These plants are boon for tribals and rural people since they are very good source for food and medicines and can combat malnutrition. Bringing into light about these plants may help in understanding outstanding potential to mitigate nutritional deficiencies among vulnerable group. These plants products especially fruits are threatened by rising population due to clearing forest and converting them to farmlands.

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