In a major boost to the livelihood of lakhs of kendu leaf pluckers, binders and seasonal staff across Odisha, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today approved a comprehensive welfare package worth ₹74.78 crore.
The decision brings immediate relief to thousands of families who depend on kendu leaf collection — one of Odisha’s most important minor forest produces — for their daily earnings.
Under the new orders, the procurement rate of kendu leaves has been increased by 10 paise per kerry (a bundle of 20 leaves) and 20 paise per phal (a bundle of 40 leaves). This price revision alone will cost the state government ₹10.78 crore.
Going a step further to reward the hard work of the collectors, the Chief Minister has approved a 25% bonus for kendu leaf pluckers (tolaali). Binders (bandhali) and seasonal staff will receive a 5% incentive on their earnings. This component of the package will involve an additional expenditure of ₹64 crore.
The total financial outlay of ₹74.78 crore reflects the state government’s strong commitment towards the welfare of forest-dependent communities, especially in rural and tribal belts where kendu leaf collection remains a vital source of income.
This welfare measure is expected to put more money directly into the hands of the workers during the upcoming collection season, helping improve their financial condition and recognising their contribution to the state’s forest economy.
Officials said the directives have been issued to the concerned departments for immediate implementation so that the benefits reach the pluckers and binders at the earliest.
