NTFP enterprise and forest governance: Tendu leaves

Tendu (Indian Ebony) leaves are one of the most important non timber forest products in central India. The leaves of Tendu are used for wrapping bidi (Indian smoking tobacco). An estimated 250,000 tons of leaves (worth US$2000 million) is collected annually in the forests of India. This report provides information from the field on governance constraints affecting tendu leaves in Central India and recommendations for action.