Tendu Leaf Collectors in Chhattisgarh Receive Over ₹13 Crores in Wages
Location: Raipur, December 9, 2024
Introduction
Rakeshwari Dhruv, a resident of Soram village in Chhattisgarh, shares how her family’s life has improved thanks to the increased wages for tendu leaf collection. With the higher earnings, she can now cover her family’s expenses, invest in her children’s education, and fulfill other essential needs. This transformation is a result of the state government’s initiative to increase tendu leaf collection rates, providing much-needed financial relief to thousands of families.
Tendu Leaves: “Green Gold” for Rural Livelihood
Known as “Green Gold,” tendu leaf collection serves as a vital supplementary income source for rural families in Chhattisgarh, especially in forested areas. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, the state government has increased the wages for tendu leaf collectors to ₹5,500 per standard bag, a significant hike from the earlier rate of ₹4,000.
This ₹1,500 increment has resulted in an improved standard of living for thousands of collectors across the state. In Dhamtari district alone, ₹13.02 crore has been paid to 29,830 tendu leaf collectors, boosting the local economy and enhancing rural livelihoods.
A Personal Story of Transformation: Rakeshwari Dhruv
For Rakeshwari Dhruv, the increased wages have been a game-changer. She explains,
“I collect tendu leaves and also work in the forest. Earlier, we used to get ₹4,000 per standard bag, but now we receive ₹5,500. This extra income helps us manage household expenses and pay for our children’s education.”
Grateful for the support provided by the state government, she extended her thanks to Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai for this much-needed financial boost.
Key Highlights of the Scheme
- Increased Earnings: The wage increase has raised incomes for lakhs of rural families, helping them afford better education, healthcare, and day-to-day needs.
- Direct Beneficiaries: In Dhamtari district, nearly 30,000 collectors received payments totaling over ₹13 crores.
- Economic Impact: The initiative has revitalized local economies in forest-dependent regions, where tendu leaf collection is a critical livelihood activity.
State Government’s Commitment to Rural Welfare
The wage hike is part of the state government’s broader vision to empower rural communities. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, initiatives like increased tendu leaf wages have addressed the financial challenges of collectors while acknowledging their hard work.
Additionally, the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable forestry and fair compensation for tendu leaf collectors ensures economic stability for thousands of families while preserving natural resources.
Conclusion
The story of Rakeshwari Dhruv and countless others exemplifies how the state government’s policies are changing lives at the grassroots level. The increased wages for tendu leaf collection have not only provided financial relief but have also empowered families to dream of a better future for their children.
With the continued focus on rural development and welfare, Chhattisgarh is setting a benchmark for inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of development reach even the remotest corners of the state.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
Authentic news.
