Bhubaneswar: With an emphasis on strengthening rural livelihoods and improving operational efficiency, the Odisha government on Wednesday outlined a future roadmap for the Kendu leaf sector during the Kendu Leaf Chintan Shibira 2026 held at Aranya Bhawan in Bhubaneswar.
The state-level deliberation brought together senior forest officials and field functionaries to review achievements, discuss field-level innovations and identify strategies to enhance the socio-economic impact of Kendu leaf operations across Odisha.
Chairing the programme, Principal Secretary of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, highlighted the sector’s potential to generate employment opportunities and improve livelihoods for forest-dependent communities. He stressed the need to introduce innovative initiatives and undertake large-scale training and skill development programmes to strengthen Kendu leaf operations across the state.
A special audio-visual presentation showcased the contribution of Kendu leaf activities in supporting rural economies and creating livelihood opportunities for beneficiaries. The presentation highlighted how the sector continues to play a key role in income generation and welfare among communities dependent on forest resources.
As part of the event, field-level officers shared successful interventions and practical innovations implemented in their respective divisions. Experience-sharing sessions were led by officials from Balangir, Boudh, Bhawanipatna and Rourkela Kendu Leaf divisions, focusing on improved collection methods, processing practices and operational management.
Recognising outstanding contributions at the grassroots level, the department felicitated 18 field staff members for their exemplary performance and commitment towards strengthening Kendu leaf operations.
Addressing the gathering, senior forest officials underscored the importance of improving both the quality and quantity of Kendu leaf production. They noted that higher productivity and revenue generation would enable stronger welfare measures for beneficiaries and further support economic development in forest regions.
Among those present were PCCF and Head of Forest Force Dr. K. Murugesan, PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha, and PCCF (Kendu Leaf) Uma Nanduri. They encouraged officials and field staff to work towards making the upcoming Kendu leaf season more productive and impactful.
The Chintan Shibira also witnessed participation from Divisional Forest Officers, Assistant Conservators of Forests, Range Officers and officials of the Kendu Leaf Wing, who deliberated on long-term measures to improve productivity, operational efficiency and beneficiary welfare across Odisha.
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