During an interaction with kendu leaf workers in Sambalpur, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also announced a 66 per cent hike in the wage of kendu leaf workers.
Patnaik said the state government has decided to enhance the collection price of kendu leaf by 50 per cent and kendu leaf pluckers will get 60 paise per kerry (a bundle of 20 leaves) instead of 40 paise in process area.
Similarly, Rs 1.20 per kerry would be given instead of 80 paise in fall area.
Unfolding other measures for the leaf pluckers, Patnaik said a proposal for service conditions for kendu leaf pluckers is under active consideration of the state government.
The state government's decision was welcomed by kendu leaf workers.