The project aims at improving the effectiveness of investment programs in the Natural Resources Sector in Tripura, Northeast India. It has been appraised and designed jointly with KfW Entwicklungsbank since 2005. Some 60% of the state is covered by forest. Forest management is the main source of income for the indigenous rural population. Poor linkages between market demand for forest industries products and the potentials of the producers impedes private sector investment in processing, trade and quality control. The project’s objective is that public and private investment programs in the Natural Resources Sector are used more effectively for local and sustainable business promotion in Tripura.

• To this end UNIQUE provides expertise in four areas:
• Improved result monitoring is integrated in two public programs for rural development;
• Local government units have improved coordination in planning, budgeting, monitoring and implementation of public investment schemes for rural areas;
• Two local PPP measures (total investment volume approx. EUR 200,000) link businesses in the Natural Resources Sector with national markets;
• 25 micro and small businesses in the area of sustainable use and processing of products from the Natural Resources Sector are to be set up.
• UNIQUE implements this project in a consortium with GOPA consultants.