Odisha LABHA Scheme 2025: A State-Funded MSP for Tribal Minor Forest Produce
The Odisha LABHA Scheme, officially called “Laghu Bana Jatya Drabya Kraya Yojana,” is a 100% state-funded minimum support price (MSP) program that helps tribal communities with their minor forest produce (MFP). Started by the Odisha government, this scheme lets tribal primary collectors sell their forest produce at a fixed MSP, making sure they get fair prices without being cheated.
Main Highlights of Odisha LABHA Scheme 2025
| Name | Odisha LABHA Scheme |
| Launched by | Odisha Government |
| Launch Date | January 29 |
| Objective | Helping tribal communities in Odisha |
| Benefits | Allows tribal primary collectors to sell minor forest produce at Minimum Support Price through TDCCOL at procurement centers |
| State | Odisha |
| Beneficiaries | Tribal population |
Purpose of Odisha LABHA Scheme
Every year, the Odisha government fixes the Minimum Support Price for minor forest produce. Tribal primary collectors, who gather these products from the forest, can sell their produce at these set prices through the Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation Limited of Odisha (TDCCOL) procurement centers. This helps them get a fair price without depending on middlemen.
Before this, even though MSPs were fixed by the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Federation of India, many tribal producers in Odisha didn’t receive the promised benefits. This scheme aims to change that.
Advantages of Odisha LABHA Scheme
- Guaranteed MSP for minor forest produce, fully supported by the State government.
- Tribal primary collectors, who make up about 99% of the producers, get direct benefits through TDCCOL’s collection centers.
- Women’s self-help groups under Mission Shakti are included because many collectors are women, ensuring their participation and support.
- ₹100 crore initially allocated by the State, with 2% of funds given to self-help groups and other organizations.
- Payments will be made directly into beneficiaries’ accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for better clarity.
- Plans to include around 30,000 tribal members at the start, expected to grow to nearly 100,000.
- Use of a procurement automation system to keep clear records and ensure transparency as part of Odisha’s “Vision 5T” strategy, which focuses on teamwork, technology, clarity, and timely action.
- TDCCOL is looking for ways to add value through processing and e-tendering to create better sales chances.
- ₹25 crore investment to begin a tamarind processing plant in Rayagada, supporting extra income by processing produce collected through LABHA.
- This scheme stops forced distress sales of forest produce to middlemen, protecting tribal collectors’ interests.
Understanding Odisha’s Tribal Community
Odisha is home to one of India’s largest tribal populations, with 62 tribes including 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Around 23% of the state’s population is tribal, many living in Scheduled Areas that cover nearly 45% of Odisha’s land. The government supports the preservation of 21 tribal languages spoken in the region and is working hard to promote education and protect the culture.
How to Apply for Odisha LABHA Scheme
At the moment, the Odisha government hasn’t announced an official website or application process for the LABHA Scheme. If you qualify, keep an eye on official Odisha government portals and announcements for updates on how to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Odisha LABHA Scheme?
It is a fully state-funded minimum support price program for minor forest produce, helping tribal collectors get fair prices.
Who benefits from this scheme?
Tribal primary collectors in Odisha who gather minor forest produce directly benefit from this scheme.
Is there an official website for Odisha LABHA Scheme?
The official website hasn’t been released yet. Watch Odisha government sites for updates.
If you belong to a tribal community and collect forest produce, the Odisha LABHA Scheme 2025 could really help you get better prices with government support.