Empowering Tribal Women through Sustainable Livelihoods
In the lush forests of Simlipal, Odisha, tribal women are creating eco-friendly change through bio-disposable sal leaf plate making. Supported by Maa Durgadevi Producer Company, they combine traditional knowledge with modern techniques to produce sustainable, high-quality plates and bowls. This initiative not only empowers women but also offers a green alternative to plastic, marketed across India through Pure Petal Alliance Pvt. Ltd.
5/8/20241 min read
Bio-Disposable Sal Leaf Plate Making in Simlipal
In the heart of Odisha’s Simlipal Biosphere Reserve, nestled among lush forests and thriving biodiversity, a quiet revolution is taking place. Tribal women in this region, traditionally marginalized and economically disadvantaged, are crafting a brighter, greener future through the art of bio-disposable sal leaf plate making. Spearheading this initiative is the Maa Durgadevi Producer Company, an organization dedicated to empowering these women while championing sustainability.
A Tradition Meets Modern Sustainability
For generations, the tribal communities of Simlipal have relied on the forest for their livelihood. Sal leaves, abundant in the region, have been traditionally used for various purposes, including plate making. Maa Durgadevi Producer Company recognized the potential of this time-honored practice to be transformed into a scalable, eco-friendly enterprise.
With increasing global awareness about the harmful effects of plastic pollution, the demand for sustainable alternatives has surged. Sal leaf plates, being biodegradable and natural, offer a perfect solution. Maa Durgadevi Producer Company tapped into this market opportunity, enabling tribal women to produce high-quality sal leaf plates and earn a steady income.
Skill Development and Capacity Building
The company’s initiative began with training programs aimed at equipping women with the skills to manufacture sal leaf plates efficiently and meet market demands. Participants learned:
· Techniques to collect and process sal leaves sustainably: Ensuring minimal environmental impact.
· Use of modern equipment: Introducing automatic stitching machines and automatic pressing machines to enhance productivity. Producing 18 types of Sal leaf finished tray, buffet plate, small size plate, and bowl
· Quality control: Emphasizing durability and hygiene to meet consumer standards.
· Marketing of finished products: Through pure petal Alliance Pvt. Ltd. to different parts of India. Business Email : Info.purepetal@gmail.com, Contact No: 8984952722
