Chhattisgarh, India: In a significant move benefiting over 12 lakh families across the state, the Chhattisgarh government has announced an increase in the wage rates for tendu leaf collection. Starting this season, the government will purchase tendu leaves at the rate of ₹5500 per standard bag, up from the previous rate.
During the BJP government's tenure until 2018, tendu leaves were purchased at the rate of ₹2500 per standard bag. After the Congress government came into power in 2018, the rate was increased to ₹4000. Now, with the return of the BJP to power, the rate has been further raised to ₹5500 per standard bag.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai made the announcement, fulfilling a promise made during the state assembly elections. He emphasized the government's commitment to improving the lives of tendu leaf collectors and their families. Additionally, the Charan Paduka Yojana, aimed at providing support to these collectors, will be reinstated.
CM Sai stated that the increase in tendu leaf collection wages would directly benefit over 12.5 lakh families. The anticipated additional income due to the wage increase is estimated to be around ₹240 crore for the collectors. Furthermore, the government is initiating a new social security scheme for tendu leaf collector siblings, aiming to provide enhanced support over the next five years.
Tendu leaf collection serves as a significant source of income for rural areas in the state. With this substantial increase in wages, the government aims to uplift the livelihoods of tendu leaf collectors and their communities.