A New Value Stream Approach for Trading of Siali Leaf Plate (Important NTFP): An Opportunity for Strengthening the Livelihood Status of Tribal Kandho Community of Kandhamal District of Odisha

Abstract

Siali leaf-plate production is an indispensable means of livelihood in Kandhamal district of Odisha. The leaf has so many uses like plates, bowls and packing material. In the market, it is more precious and advantageous than the Sal leaf due to its low cost, large in size, hygienic, non-odorous, non-toxic, lightweight, heat resistant and biodegradable. The present study was carried out in Kandhamal district putting particular emphasis on two blocks Daringbadi and Raikia. A total of five villages were selected, from which 78 households were randomly chosen. From each block, 7 traders were chosen purposefully and were interviewed. The analytical techniques viz. Descriptive analysis, SWOT analysis, Price spread analysis and value chain analyses were used for the study. The marginalised poor tribal of the district are unaware of the new value stream approach and the road ahead in front of them to commercialise their product. The paper aims at contributing improved livelihoods through a conceptualised value chain incorporating various improved technology, cooperatives and producer organisation. The tribal women perform a variety of functions at different stages in the value chains, but their roles tend to be improper and inadequately acknowledged because they are operating in the informal sector, so this problem should be solved through the intervening solution proposed.