Finance
On Sunday, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik distributed Rs 43 crore in aid to kendu leaf pluckers, binders, and seasonal workers. He also demanded that the GST on the kendu leaf be completely removed.
The assistance was distributed at a function by the chief minister as part of a special package announced by him four days ago for eight lakh kendu leaf pluckers and other seasonal staff involved in the activity. While each kendu leaf plucker received Rs 1,000, each seasonal staff and binder received Rs 1,500 as an interim measure in the first phase. DBT was used to transfer the assistance to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
The chief minister stated that beneficiaries in the Bargarh district will receive assistance once the model code of conduct for the Padampur by-election is lifted. The chief minister reiterated his demand for the Centre to completely remove the 18% GST on kendu leaf business, describing it as a major source of livelihood for the poor. “I find joy in the happiness of the poor.” “I have always advocated for the poor and will continue to do so,” Naveen said.
Source:TNIE
