Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: In a major welfare initiative, the Odisha government has approved ₹50 crore in financial assistance for kendu leaf pluckers across the state.

The Forest and Environment Department sanctioned the amount under the ‘Mukhyamantri Kendu Patra Kalyan Panthi’ scheme for the fiscal year 2025–26, aiming to support over 9 lakh kendu leaf workers in 22 districts.

This move comes in response to declining commercial returns from kendu leaf trade due to factors like reduced production, rising labour costs, and shrinking water resources. The state government’s intervention seeks to stabilize the livelihoods of those dependent on kendu leaf collection.

The assistance will cover research and training, awareness campaigns, biometric systems, digital infrastructure, recruitment, and contingency measures. The expenditure will be need-based and aligned with the nature of operations.

The scheme also includes incentives and welfare benefits for kendu leaf labourers based on available commercial surplus from KLDF (Kendu Leaf Development Fund).

Additionally, the government plans to expand the deregulation of kendu leaf trade — already implemented in 19 villages across Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, and Kalahandi — to 5–6 more districts. This move is expected to encourage healthy competition and ensure better prices for kendu leaf block-level buyers.

Pending dues from the 2024 crop year will be settled using available commercial surplus, ensuring timely support for workers. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to uplifting forest-dependent communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods.