State PCS - Chhattisgarh (CGPSC)

• 09 Jul 2025

Charan Paduka Scheme

Why in News? 

The Chhattisgarh government has revived the Charan Paduka scheme, a footwear scheme aimed at benefiting tendu leaf collectors across the state. 

• The scheme will benefit over 1.24 million tendu leaf collectors, and the state government has approved a budget of Rs 40 crore for its implementation.

Key Points

• About the Scheme: 
  • The Charan Paduka scheme was originally launched in November 2005 by the state government. 
  • The scheme provides one pair of footwear per year to up to two family members, aged 18 years or above, involved in tendu leaf collection. 
  • Initially, only one male member per family qualified. However, in 2008, the government extended eligibility to female members as well. 
  • The scheme applies exclusively to native residents of Chhattisgarh. 
• Significance of the Relaunch of the Scheme: 
  • The relaunch reflects the government’s firm commitment to uplifting tribal and forest-dependent communities. 
  • Tendu leaf collectors’ families play a vital role in preserving forest-based livelihoods and sustaining Chhattisgarh’s traditional economy. 
    • Reaffirming support for forest livelihoods, CM announced a hike in the tendu leaf collection rate from Rs 4,500 to Rs 5,500 per standard sack. 

Tendu Leaves

• About: 
  • Tendu (Kendu) leaf, also called the green gold, is a Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP).  
  • The botanical name of the Tendu leaf is Diospyros Melanoxylon. 
  • The leaves are used to wrap bidis, a popular smoke among the locals. 
• States Producing Tendu Leaves: 
  • The states producing bidi leaves in India comprise mainly Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Maharashtra. 
• Significance: 
  • Medicament: 
    • Traditional medical practitioners use these tiny fruits of Kendu to treat malaria, diarrhoea and dysentery. 
    • Due to their antimicrobial properties, the leaves are applied on cuts and bruises as well. 
  • Source of Livelihood: 
    • Tendu leaves are the major source for tribal villages, since it is the most prominent Minor Forest Produce (MFP) of the state. 
      • MFP includes all non-timber forest produce of plant origin and includes bamboo, canes, fodder, leaves, gums, waxes, dyes, resins and many forms of food including nuts, wild fruits, honey, lac, tusser etc. 
      • They form a major portion of their food, fruits, medicines and other consumption items and also provide cash income through sales.