17.11.25

Sunamanjuri Green Shakti Producer Company Distributes Srama Labha to Primary Collectors on Tribal Pride Day in Keonjhar, Odisha

Event Overview

On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day), observed on 15 November 2025, the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), in collaboration with the Department of Mission Shakti, Government of Odisha, organised an event at the Municipal Auditorium in Keonjhar district. As part of the programme, Sunamanjuri Green Shakti Producer Company (SGSPC) distributed Srama Labha (patronage-based bonus) to its primary collectors from Champua block of the district.

The programme recognised the contribution of tribal primary collectors, particularly for their role in the collection of seasonal forest products (SFPs), such as sal seeds. It also reaffirmed the commitment to transparency and equity in value-chain benefits.

Event Highlights

Srama Labha was distributed to eligible primary collectors based on the surplus generated by the SGSPC after meeting all operational costs. The distribution was formally carried out by the Chief Guest, Shri Ananta Nayak, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha). The event was also attended by Smt Niku Sahu, Chairperson, Keonjhar Municipality, and Shri Kumar Nagabhusan (OAS), Chief Development Officer-cum-Executive Officer (CDO-cum-EO), Zilla Parishad.

As part of the event, the Department of Mission Shakti facilitated a display stall showcasing the achievements of producer companies (PCs) engaged in sal seed operations. Shri Ananta Nayak interacted with the SGSPC team and its Board members, appreciated their efforts, and suggested exploring convergence opportunities with Van Dhan Kendras­—community-based centres that support the collection, aggregation, processing, and marketing of SFPs—to leverage additional government support.

Institutional Engagement and Future Plans

Ahead of the event, a briefing meeting was held with Shri Kumar Nagabhusan. During the meeting, a request was placed for conducting a district-level workshop on the Sulabhaa initiative, which provides hands-on experience in starting and managing PCs.

A detailed presentation is scheduled for the coming week. Based on this, the workshop will be planned with the participation of all relevant district-level departments.

Looking Ahead

The event not only recognised the contributions of tribal primary collectors but also provided a valuable platform to showcase ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening SFP value chains. It opened pathways for deeper collaboration between government departments, PCs, and community institutions.

With renewed visibility and institutional interest, the coming months are expected to bring enhanced opportunities for scaling impact and strengthening livelihood security for tribal households in Keonjhar district.