With 'Green Shakti', Women Take Control Over Forest-Based Economy

Mission Shakti dept in collaboration with Bharti Institute of Public Policy and Indian School of Business has formed women-led Green Shakti producer companies in six districts that are aimed at financial empowerment of women dependent on NTFP, writes Diana Sahu

- Diana Sahu

Till a year back, Kabita Madhi, a 23-year-old tribal woman of Kalimela in Malkangiri, did not know that Karanja seeds that are found aplenty in local forests, would provide her a livelihood.

"These seeds grow in abundance in our forests and we had never known that they are so much in demand in the state and outside for preparation of medicinal oils, soaps, etc." she said.

From being unaware of the non-timber forest produce (NTFP), Kabita and some tribal women like her in Kalimela, Bonda Hill, Podia and Motu blocks where forests are lined with Karanja trees, are now selling these seeds directly to firms that are interested in manufacturing medicinal and utility products from them. Most importantly, without the involvement of any middlemen. The women have recently sold 169 kg of Karanja seeds at ₹45 per kg directly to a firm that prepares Karanja oil.