Kendu Leaf

Kendu Leaf Latest News

Eight Gram Sabhas in Baipariguda block of Koraput district, Odisha have collected over 4 lakh bundles of kendu leaves and are awaiting government notification to deregulate the trade.

Why in the News?

• In the Koraput district of Odisha, eight Gram Sabhas from Baipariguda block, including villages like Kalatha Jodi, Kupuli Guda, and Badali Beda, have collectively harvested more than 4 lakh bundles of kendu leaves during the 2025 season.
• These tribal communities are seeking to independently manage and sell kendu leaves under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.

What is Kendu Leaf?

• The Kendu Leaf, also called “Green Gold of Odisha”, is one of the most vital non-wood forest products (NWFPs) in the region. In other parts of India, it is known as the Tendu Leaf.
• It is nationalised, like Bamboo and Sal seed, meaning its collection and trade are regulated by the government. 
• Primary use: Used to roll tobacco into bidis (local cigarettes); also holds medicinal value.
• Key Producer States: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat.
• Odisha is the third-largest producer after MP and Chhattisgarh.

Tribal Rights Under FRA

• Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 recognises rights of forest-dwelling communities to collect, use, and sell minor forest produce (MFP) like kendu leaves.
• 2012 Amendment to FRA:
  • Empowers communities to process, store, transport, and sell MFP without paying royalties or seeking permission.
  • Transit permits must be issued by the Community Forest Rights Management Committee (CFRMC), not forest officials.

CFRMC Role & Transit Permits

• Under FRA, Transit Permits must be issued by the Community Forest Rights Management Committee (CFRMC). State laws like the Odisha Kendu Leaf (Control of Trade) Act cannot override the FRA, as its provisions hold legal supremacy.

Source: DTE

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