Leverage Loans for Local Forest Produce

Here in Kandhamal, many of us rely on the bounty of our forests. We gather things like sal seeds, mahua, honey, and resin. We've seen that when we can access a little capital, we can do even more to support our families and our community. My neighbors and I often talk about taking a loan from the government. With that money, we could buy and sell these precious forest items like kholi, thul, and jhuna. It's not just about collecting; it's about trading them fairly, ensuring that the value stays within our villages. This practice helps us create our own livelihood, allowing us to manage our resources sustainably and participate actively in the local market. It's a way to keep our traditions alive while adapting to economic needs and supporting ourselves.