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Chhattisgarh News Updated Nov 20, 2025

Chhattisgarh's Tendu Leaf Sector: How 13 Lakh Livelihoods Depend on New Leadership

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has extended warm congratulations to the newly elected office bearers of the Tendu Leaf Board. He emphasized the critical importance of the tendu leaf sector, which supports the livelihoods of nearly 13 lakh people across the state. The CM expressed confidence that the new leadership will further develop and strengthen this vital industry. Meanwhile, security forces continue their successful operations against Naxalism, with recent neutralizations of top cadres marking significant progress.

Chhattisgarh CM Sai congratulates newly elected Tendu Leaf Board office bearers

Raipur, November 19

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai welcomed the newly elected office bearers of the Tendu Leaf board while underlining the crucial role of the tendu leaf sector in supporting lakhs of families in the state.

While talking to the media, CM Vishnu Deo Sai said, "On taking responsibility as the newly elected Tendu Leaf Board President, Roop Sai Salam, and Vice-President, Yagya Dutt Sharma, I congratulate them and wish them success in their work."

He further highlighted the Tendu leaf business in the state and added, "In the state, nearly 12 to 13 lakh people depend on the Tendu leaf business and plantations for their livelihood. Their responsibility will be to develop further and strengthen this sector, wish them all the success once again."

Earlier in the day, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that top Naxal cadres have been neutralised and reiterated the resolve of the Union government to eliminate left-wing extremism.

"Ever since we came to power, our jawans have been in action against Naxalism. Our Government is in the Centre too, we are benefiting from that as well. It is the resolve of Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) and Home Minister (Amit Shah) to eliminate Naxalism by 2026. Our jawans are fighting this (naxalism) and they have been tasting success too. Naxalism is breathing its last now. Top Naxal cadres have been neutralised. Today too, some members have been neutralised...," CM Sai told reporters.

Bastar IG P Sundarraj on Tuesday called the killing of top Maoist leader Madvi Hidma a "decisive advantage" for security forces. He added that the militants now have no choice but to surrender and integrate into the mainstream or face consequences.

Hidma, accused of orchestrating over 26 armed assaults on security forces and civilians, was reportedly shot dead in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitharamaraju district. Along with Hidma, his wife Raje and other members of the Maoist group, including Chelluri Narayana, and Tech Shankar were also killed, sources said.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

The news about neutralizing top Naxal leaders is encouraging, but I hope the government also focuses on rehabilitation and development in these areas. Security alone won't solve the problem - people need education, jobs and basic facilities.

Sarah B

As someone who has visited Chhattisgarh, I can see how important tendu leaf collection is for rural communities. Glad to see the government recognizing this traditional livelihood. Hope the new leadership brings positive changes! 👍

Aditya G

The elimination of Hidma is a major achievement for our security forces. These naxals have destroyed development in Bastar region for decades. Now peace can return and tendu leaf collectors can work without fear. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

Michael C

Interesting to learn about tendu leaf economy in India. 12-13 lakh people dependent on this shows how traditional industries still support rural livelihoods. Hope the new board members modernize the sector while preserving its essence.

Nisha Z

While I appreciate the security achievements, I'm concerned about the human cost. Many villagers get caught between security forces and naxals. Hope the government ensures no innocent lives are lost in this fight against extremism.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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