Bhubaneswar, 24 June (H.S.): The Kendu Leaf Chintan Shibira 2026 was held at Aranya Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, bringing together senior forest officials and field functionaries to review achievements, exchange innovative practices, and formulate future strategies for strengthening Kendu Leaf operations across Odisha.

The programme was chaired by Principal Secretary of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma. Addressing the gathering, Shri Sarma underlined the vast potential of the Kendu Leaf sector in generating employment opportunities and supporting the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. He emphasized the need for large-scale training and skill development initiatives to improve operational efficiency and create sustainable income-generating opportunities in rural areas.

A video presentation highlighting the achievements and socio-economic impact of Kendu Leaf operations in Odisha was showcased during the event. The presentation illustrated the sector’s significant contribution to rural development, livelihood generation, and welfare measures benefiting thousands of Kendu Leaf collectors and beneficiaries across the state.

An experience-sharing session featured field-level innovations and best practices presented by officers from various Kendu Leaf divisions. The Assistant Conservator of Forests, Balangir (KL) Division, and Divisional Forest Officers from Boudh (KL), Bhawanipatna (KL), and Rourkela (KL) divisions shared successful interventions aimed at improving the collection, processing, management, and productivity of Kendu Leaf operations.

Recognising exemplary service and outstanding performance, 18 field staff members were felicitated for their contributions to the successful implementation of Kendu Leaf activities.

Among the dignitaries present were Dr. K. Murugesan, PCCF & Head of Forest Force, Odisha; Shri Prem Kumar Jha, PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Odisha; and Smt. Uma Nanduri, PCCF (Kendu Leaf). In their addresses, they encouraged field staff to strive for excellence during the upcoming Kendu Leaf season by focusing on improving both the quality and quantity of production. They noted that increased revenue from Kendu Leaf operations would further strengthen welfare initiatives for beneficiaries and forest-dependent communities.

The Chintan Shibira witnessed the participation of Divisional Forest Officers, Assistant Conservators of Forests, Range Officers, and other officials of the Kendu Leaf Wing. Deliberations focused on enhancing operational efficiency, boosting productivity, promoting innovation, and ensuring greater welfare benefits for Kendu Leaf collectors and beneficiaries across Odisha.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda