Gram Sabhas in Baipariguda block of Odisha’s Koraput district are seeking a state deregulation letter to independently collect and sell kendu leaves under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Despite Community Forest Rights being recognised, the villages say their legal right to trade minor forest produce remains blocked by the state’s control over the kendu leaf trade. The issue has become urgent because the collection season is short and delays can lead to heavy losses for tribal households, especially women collectors.
Legal Basis Under FRA
The Forest Rights Act, 2006 gives forest-dwelling communities the right to own, collect, use and sell minor forest produce. Kendu leaf is classified as minor forest produce. A 2012 amendment further expanded these rights to include processing, storage, value addition and transportation. It also stated that these rights override conflicting state laws. In Odisha, however, the Kendu Leaf (Control of Trade) Act still keeps the trade under state monopoly unless deregulation is formally allowed.
Ground Situation in Baipariguda
The KL Division of the Forest Department opened collection points for only three days this season. Collection was limited to cardholders, though only around 20 per cent of households have such cards. This has left most families without access to income from kendu leaves. The Gram Sabhas argue that their own system would cover all collectors over a three-week season and provide a better rate of Rs 4 per bundle, compared with the government offer of Rs 3.20.
Past Losses and Precedents
Last year, delays in issuing the deregulation letter led to an estimated Rs 36 lakh worth of kendu leaves being destroyed by rain. Odisha has previously issued deregulation orders in Nabarangpur, Malkangiri and Kalahandi districts, allowing Gram Sabhas to trade independently and improve livelihoods. A 2022 high-level meeting also recorded that Gram Sabhas with Community Forest Rights may exercise kendu leaf trade rights independently.
Livelihood and Policy Significance
Kendu leaf is important seasonal income source in forested districts like Koraput. For tribal women, widows and single mothers, timely access to this trade can support food security and household survival. The Baipariguda Gram Sabhas are now pressing the state to issue the deregulation letter before the season ends, arguing that the law already supports their claim.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026