Kendu Leaf Chintan Shibira 2026 was organised today at the Conference Hall on the 6th Floor of Aranya Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, to review achievements, share field-level innovations, and chart future strategies for strengthening Kendu Leaf operations in Odisha.
The programme was held under the chairmanship of Shri Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Odisha. Addressing the gathering, Shri Sarma highlighted the immense potential for generating new employment opportunities in the state through the introduction of various projects in the future. He emphasised the need for large-scale training and skill development initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of Kendu Leaf operations and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for forest-dependent communities.
A video presentation showcasing the achievements and socio-economic impact of Kendu Leaf operations in Odisha was screened during the event. The presentation highlighted the significant contribution of the Kendu leaf operations towards livelihood generation, rural development, and the welfare of Kendu Leaf beneficiaries across the state.
An experience-sharing session on innovative practices in Kendu Leaf operations was conducted by field officers, including the Assistant Conservator of Forests, Balangir (KL) Division, and Divisional Forest Officers of Boudh (KL), Bhawanipatna (KL), and Rourkela (KL) Divisions. The officers shared successful interventions, best practices, and innovative approaches adopted in their respective divisions to improve the collection, processing, and management of Kendu Leaf operations.
In recognition of their exceptional contribution and outstanding performance, 18 field staff members were felicitated during the programme.
The event was attended by Dr. K. Murugesan, PCCF & HoFF, Odisha, Shri Prem Kumar Jha, PCCF (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden, Odisha and Smt. Uma Nanduri, PCCF (Kendu Leaf). In their addresses, they encouraged field staff to strive for excellence during the upcoming Kendu Leaf season by focusing on improving both the quality and quantity of Kendu Leaf production. They emphasised that increased revenue from Kendu Leaf operations would further strengthen welfare measures for Kendu Leaf beneficiaries and forest-dependent communities.
The Chintan Shibira witnessed the participation of senior officers of the Forest Department, including Divisional Forest Officers, Assistant Conservators of Forests, Range Officers, and other officials of the Kendu Leaf Wing, who deliberated on strategies for enhancing operational efficiency, productivity, and beneficiary welfare.
