Summary:
With the first round of tendu (beedi) leaf e-tendering process all set to get underway, the Forest Department has intensified efforts to prevent forest fires during the ensuing tendu shrubs pruning season. The study conducted by the Forest Department has found that 1,618 incidents of forest fire occurred during the period (2004-2017). “Persistent efforts are being made to educate the beedi leaf contractors, khalladars, shepherds the local youth and other forest dwellers about the fire prevention and control measures,” says the District Forest Officer Sivala Rambabu. A target of 47,800 standard bags has been stipulated for the tendu leaf collection season - 2018, sources in the Forest Department said. In all 39 beedi leaf units have been notified for sale in six forest divisions of the district..