Kendu Leaf

Category: Environment / Tribal Economy / Non-Timber Forest Produce

Notes

  • Kendu leaf is scientifically known as Diospyros melanoxylon.

  • It is commonly used to make bidi wrappers.

  • It is an important source of seasonal employment for forest-dependent communities.

  • Odisha calls it “Green Gold.”

  • Odisha is one of India's major Kendu leaf-producing states.

  • Kendu leaf trade in Odisha was nationalised in 1973.

Key Pointers

  • Scientific name: Diospyros melanoxylon

  • Other name: Tendu leaf

  • Use: Bidi manufacturing

  • Major states: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha

  • Odisha: Major livelihood source for forest-dependent communities

  • UPSC link: Minor Forest Produce, tribal livelihoods, forest economy