With recent news highlighting the plight of several children gathering kendu (Tendu) leaves in Odisha’s Kalahandi district, it’s essential to delve deeper into this issue. This article will discuss about the significance of kendu leaf, states producing these leaves, their uniqueness, and the challenges that comes along with its production.
Understanding Kendu Leaf: The Green Gold of Odisha
Kendu leaf, referred to as the green gold of Odisha, is a nationalised product like bamboo and sal seed. Its botanical name is Diospyros Melanoxylon. Used predominantly to wrap bidis (a local type of cigarette), it is one of the most crucial non-wood forest products in Odisha.
States Producing Kendu Leaves
Bidis leaf production is not limited to Odisha. Other states contributing to this crop’s cultivation include Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Odisha takes the third spot in the list of largest producers, preceded by Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
Why Kendu Leaf from Odisha is Unique
Odisha’s Tendu (kendu) leaf stands out for its processed form, a quality that differentiates it from the Phal form produced in other states. After processing, Kendu leaves are categorized into grades I through IV, depending on the color, texture, size and body condition of the leaf. Graded leaves are then packaged into 5 kilogram bundles.
The Significance of Kendu Leaves
Kendu leaves not only serve as wrappers for bidis but also have medicinal properties. Traditional healers use the small fruits of Kendu to treat ailments like malaria, diarrhoea, and dysentery. Thanks to their antimicrobial properties, the leaves also find application in treating minor cuts and bruises.
Kendu Leaves as a Livelihood Source
For tribal villages, Kendu leaves form a significant source of income. As prominent Minor Forest Produce (MFP), they are a vital aspect of the non-timber forest produce, including bamboo, canes, gums, dyes, resins among others.
Contribution to Odisha’s Forest Revenue
Kendu leaves play a pivotal role in Odisha’s forest revenue. Of the total forest revenue of Rs 868 million accumulated between 1990 and 2000, an impressive Rs 635 million was due to Kendu leaves alone. The state generates around 4.5-5 lakh quintals of bidi leaf per year, amounting to about 20% of the country’s annual production.
The Concern: Child Labor and Low Wages
Despite its economic significance, the sector is riddled with issues such as child labor and low wages. Children engage in kendu leaf collection during April-May every year and get paid meager wages. Exploitation of children, particularly those under 14 years, remains a pressing concern.
A Call for Stringent Laws and Greater Awareness
To address these issues, stricter laws against child labor are required. Alongside, there’s a need for increased awareness about child rights amongst parents and children. Child protection systems like childline, district child protection units, and child welfare committees should be more vigilant and proactive in exercising children’s rights. Furthermore, deregulation of minor forest products is crucial so that tribal and rural people can exercise their rights on MFP.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024