Odisha tribal women swap cannabis for black rice, earn Rs 4,000-5,000 a month

Tribal women in Odisha's Malkangiri and Koraput districts have replaced illegal cannabis cultivation with indigenous black rice varieties like Kalabati, Kala Moli and Kala Jeera. The women, organised into self-help groups, manage the entire process from organic farming to packaging and marketing. After milling, the black rice sells at around Rs 100 per kg, earning each woman nearly Rs 4,000-5,000 every month, reports Deccan Chronicle.

Despite growing demand, poor marketing facilities remain a major hurdle. Arati Padiami, a self-help group member, told Deccan Chronicle that a permanent stall from the block administration would help them reach more customers. Odisha TV notes that the Koraput district administration has provided black rice seeds and milling machines, and assured support based on market demand. Malkangiri Collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke said the women have been selling their produce at trade fairs, and the local BDO has been asked to address their concerns.

Agricultural scientist Dr Kartik Lenka said the medium-duration crop (about 120 days) yields 14-15 quintals per acre and is rich in antioxidants, helping manage cholesterol and diabetes. The women have appealed for institutional assistance to expand the business.