Chhattisgarh Transfers ₹1.39 Crore Bonus to Over 10,000 Tendu Leaf Collectors Through Direct Benefit Transfer : Digital payout strengthens livelihoods of tribal families and reinforces transparent governance under the Sai government
Raipur, July 14, 2026 : In a significant step towards strengthening the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities, the Chhattisgarh government has disbursed more than ₹1.39 crore as incentive bonus to 10,160 tendu leaf collectors through a fully digital Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
The initiative, undertaken under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, aims to provide timely financial support to tribal families while promoting transparency and efficiency in the state's minor forest produce procurement system.
The incentive pertains to the 2023 tendu leaf collection season and has been credited directly into the beneficiaries' bank accounts through the Minor Forest Produce (MFP) Collection and Payment System. The payment was made through the Pendra Road District Minor Forest Produce Cooperative Union under the Marwahi Forest Division in Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi district, covering beneficiaries from nine primary minor forest produce cooperative societies.
A total of ₹1,39,36,718 was transferred directly to eligible collectors, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring a transparent and time-bound payment process.
According to the state government, the incentive was released based on the collection of 6,593 standard bags of tendu leaves during the 2023 season. The digital transfer ensured that beneficiaries received the funds directly into their bank accounts without delays, enhancing financial security for thousands of tribal households.
The campaign was implemented under the supervision of Divisional Forest Officer and Ex-Officio Managing Director Grishmi Chand. Officials said the bonus amount is expected to support families in meeting essential expenses such as agriculture, children's education, healthcare, and household needs, thereby improving their overall quality of life.
The government noted that collectors had already received the standard procurement payment of ₹4,000 per standard bag for the 2023 collection season. The newly released incentive bonus provides additional financial support and is expected to further strengthen the rural and forest-based economy.
The Chhattisgarh government said the initiative reflects its commitment to inclusive development, transparent governance, and the economic empowerment of tribal communities. By ensuring direct and timely payments, the state aims to enhance the sustainability of forest-based livelihoods while improving the welfare of tendu leaf collectors across the region.
