Bhubaneswar: In a major boost for lakhs of forest-dependent families in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved a ₹74.78 crore financial package, increasing procurement price of kendu leaves, and sanctioning bonus and incentive payments.
The decision brings to an end months of protests by kendu leaf pluckers, seasonal employees, and labourers who had been demonstrating since February to demand better compensation and financial support.
Under the newly revised rates, the price of a “kerri” (a bundle of 20 leaves) in processed areas has been increased by 10 paise, while the rate for a “phal” or “phala” (a bundle of 40 leaves) has been raised by 20 paise, accounting for ₹10.78 crore of the state’s total expenditure.
In addition to the rate hike, the CM has greenlit a 25 per cent bonus specifically for kendu leaf collectors and pluckers. Binders and seasonal staff involved in the trade will also see a 5 per cent incentive, with these combined bonus and incentive payments drawing ₹64 crore from the state exchequer.
This comprehensive welfare package is expected to deliver much-needed financial relief while formally recognising the critical contributions of these seasonal labourers and workers.
