Why in News?
On April 23, 2026, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi welcomed the central government’s decision to slash GST on kendu leaves (Green Gold of Odisha) from 18% to 5%.
General Profile
- Scientific Name: Diospyros melanoxylon.
- Other Names: Widely known as Tendu leaf in other parts of India.
- Economic Status: A nationalised product in states like Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
- Main Use: Primarily used as a wrapper for Bidis (local hand-rolled cigarettes).
Unique Characteristics
- Processed Quality: Odisha is the only state that produces processed kendu leaves, which have a higher market value than raw leaves.
- Physical Properties: The leaves are hygroscopic (resist cracking when dry), pliable, and have a unique aroma that matches tobacco.
- Medicinal Value: Used in traditional medicine to treat malaria, diarrhea, and dysentery; also used as an antimicrobial on cuts.
Production and Economy
- Top Producers: Madhya Pradesh (1st), Chhattisgarh (2nd), and Odisha (3rd).
- Output: Odisha produces approximately 4.5 to 5 lakh quintals annually, accounting for nearly 20% of India's total production.
- Best Quality: The leaves from Balangir district in Odisha are considered the highest quality in India.
Livelihood Impact
- Workforce: Engages over 8 lakh pluckers in Odisha alone, providing vital seasonal income during the lean summer months (Feb–May).
- Women's Empowerment: Over 95% of pluckers are tribal women, many of whom are widows or single mothers.
- Income: A diligent plucker can earn between ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per season.
Legal and Policy Challenges
- FRA vs. KL Act: Tribal groups argue that the Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006 gives them ownership of Minor Forest Produce, but the state continues to exercise monopoly via the Odisha Kendu Leaf (Control of Trade) Act.
- Child Labour Concerns: April and May often see reports of children being engaged in collection, leading to calls for more stringent enforcement of child rights laws.
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