Bhubaneswar: Over 6.2 lakh packets of kendu leaves worth Rs 34 lakh plucked by tribals in Koraput district’s Boipariguda block have started decomposing in the rain. People of 100 villages, who are members of Boipariguda gram sabha mahasangha, collected the kendu leaves in April under the community forest rights, but failed to sell them without the necessary permission from forest department.
The Forest Rights Act, 2006 has granted individuals or communities the right of ownership and access to collect, utilize and dispose of minor forest produce. This right is extended to traditional collection practices both within and outside the boundaries of the village.
The tribals, mostly women pluckers, depend on kendu leaves for their livelihood.
However, they are currently facing challenges in storing the processed leaf due to lack of storage infrastructure.
Despite repeated requests, kendu leaf division of Jeypore did not give permission to sell the leaves.
Members of the gram sabha have submitted a memorandum to chief minister Mohan Majhi, seeking permission to sell kendu leaves on June 21.
“We have high hopes from the CM as he himself belongs to a tribal community and he can understand our plight. We are not asking for any favour but to follow the rules so that we can get value for our hard work or the rains will destroy all the leaves and nobody will get a penny,” said Malati Naik, president of Mahila Mahasangha of Khajuripadar village.
Sarat Kumar Sahu, divisional forest officer of kendu leaf division (Jeypore), said after CM’s intervention, an inquiry report has been submitted to Majhi.
“Final decision on giving permission to the gram sabha is pending with the higher authorities,” he added.
“This is not just about economic loss, it’s about respecting the rights and traditions of tribal communities. The govt must ensure that these tribals are not left in the lurch,” said Dhanapati Jani, president of Baipariguda Gram Sabha Mahasangha.

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