Odisha announces Rs 74.78 cr welfare package for kendu leaf workers

Bhubaneswar, Jul 13 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday announced a welfare package of Rs 74.78 crore for people engaged in the kendu leaf sector. According to a statement by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the package includes a hike in procurement prices as well as bonus and incentive payments for workers associated with kendu leaf collection. Kendu leaf collection is a major source of livelihood for people living in forested and remote areas of the state, particularly tribals and Dalits, the statement said. Under the revised rates, the price of one keri (20 leaves) has been increased by 10 paise, while the rate for a bundle of 40 leaves has been raised by 20 paise. The price revision will entail an additional expenditure of Rs 10.78 crore, it said. This apart, Majhi also approved a 25 per cent bonus for kendu leaf pluckers while leaf binders and seasonal staff will receive a 5 per cent incentive on their earnings. This will involve an additional expenditure of Rs 64 crore. Overall, the state government will incur an additional expenditure of Rs 74.78 crore on the kendu leaf sector, an official said. PTI AAM AAM MNB