Absence of 'division' leaves kendu leaf collectors in lurch

Despite contributing significantly to state exchequer, over 26,000 kendu leaf collectors in Subarnapur district remain deprived of basic welfare schemes, and face exploitation in the hands of middlemen and unscrupulous persons

- POST NEWS NETWORK

Absence of a dedicated kendu leaf division has led to persistent exploitation of rural labourers - who collect these leaves - and poor implementation of the welfare schemes meant for them in Subarnapur district.

Often referred to as the 'green diamond' of western Odisha, kendu leaf provides vital seasonal income to thousands of collectors who sell those to the government.

According to reports, at present, Subarnapur has no independent kendu leaf division. Instead, its nine kendu leaf ranges operate under the jurisdictions of Bolangir, Sambalpur, and Redhakhole divisions.

For example, the ranges in Khaliapali, Singhbahali, and Tarbha under Sonepur block fall under Bolangir division. Similarly, the Ulunda block’s Ulunda, Jaloe, and Sindol ranges are managed by the Sambalpur division, while Bahalpadar and Khandhata ranges in Birmaharajpur block are under the Rairakhol division.