Chhattisgarh Sets New Record in Tendu Leaf Collection; 13.52 Lakh Standard Bags Collected So Far

Raipur, May 2026 : Chhattisgarh has set a new milestone in tendu leaf (minor forest produce) collection, significantly increasing the income of more than 13.52 lakh tribal and forest-dwelling families. The state government has ensured direct payments worth crores of rupees into the accounts of collectors at a rate of ₹5,500 per standard bag. As of May 24, 2026, a total of 13,52,248.343 standard bags of tendu leaves have been collected across all six forest circles of the state during the 2026 collection season.

Known as “green gold” in forest regions, tendu leaves serve as a key source of livelihood for thousands of families, especially women engaged in collection activities. The initiative has contributed to a notable improvement in their living standards.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and the guidance of Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, the state’s forest produce-based welfare schemes are showing strong results. Officials said the achievement reflects both the hard work of forest-dependent communities and the government’s effective forest management policies. The Minimum Support Price system, timely payments, and bonus benefits have played a major role in strengthening the economic condition of collectors.

Bilaspur Circle Leads Collection

According to official data, Bilaspur circle recorded the highest collection with 3,03,191.770 standard bags. Raigarh, Korba, Bilaspur, and Marwahi regions made significant contributions to this total.

Surguja Circle at Second Position

Surguja circle registered a total collection of 2,98,200.456 standard bags. Strong performance was seen in Balrampur, Surajpur, Korea, Surguja, and Jashpur regions.

Strong Performance by Kanker and Raipur Circles

Kanker circle collected 2,24,817.540 standard bags, while Raipur circle recorded 1,92,088.675 standard bags. Bhanupratappur in Kanker and Gariaband and Mahasamund regions in Raipur circle contributed significantly.

Bastar Region Shows Strong Output

Jagdalpur circle reported a collection of 1,74,392.028 standard bags, with major contributions from Sukma and Bijapur districts, reflecting the strong forest produce potential of the Bastar region.

Durg Circle Also Performs Well

Durg circle recorded 1,59,557.874 standard bags. Successful collection was reported from Rajnandgaon, Kabirdham, Khairagarh, and Balod regions.

Strengthening Forest-Based Livelihoods

More than 13 lakh collectors are directly linked to this economic system through over 900 primary minor forest produce cooperative societies across the state. The government has developed tendu leaf collection as a key livelihood support mechanism for rural and forest-dependent families, strengthening both employment and the rural economy.

Forest department officials stated that continuous monitoring is being carried out to ensure transparency in the collection process, timely payments to collectors, and maximum benefits for forest-dependent communities.