Production of Kendu Leaves
As per information received from the Govt. of Odisha, it produces about 4.4 lakh quintals of Kendu leaves (KL) annually which includes 3.5 lakh quintals processed KL, 0.81 lakh quintal of Phal and O.1 lakh quintals growers KL. The number of KL pluckers is of the order of 8 lakhs, who are paid around Rs.131.00 crore.
About 20,000 skilled man power are engaged annually for processing and binding of the KL and are paid about Rs.36 crore as wages. Annually, an amount of Rs.18.26 crore is paid for bush cutting operation which generates about 10.70 lakh mandays.
As per information received from the State Govt, the decision to deregulate the Kendu Leaf Trade in Nabarangpur and Malkangiri has been taken on experimental basis. Gram Panchayats have been empowered to issue transit permits in respect of kendu leaves purchased by traders as per the provisions of Forest Rights Act, 2006.
This information was given by Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Mansukhbhai Dhanjibhai Vasava in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
Samir/jk