From Ganja Fields To Black Rice: Tribal Women In Odisha Rewrite Their Story
The Koraput district administration has provided black rice seeds and milling machines to women farmers: Reports
BHUBANESWAR: For years, the Telerai area under the jurisdiction of Kalimela block in Odisha's Malkangiri district carried the stigma of being associated with illegal cannabis cultivation. Today, the same soil is scripting a different story — one of resilience, dignity and self-reliance, led by tribal women who have embraced an indigenous variety of black paddy.
In the remote pockets of Malkangiri and neighbouring Koraput districts, women farmers are cultivating rare traditional rice varieties such as Kalabati, Kala Moli and Kala Jeera. What began as an experiment has now become a source of income and empowerment for several tribal women.
After milling, the black rice is sold at around Rs 100 per kg, helping women earn nearly Rs 4,000-5,000 every month. The crop has also given them confidence to take control of the entire process — from organic farming and harvesting to milling, packaging and marketing.
“We took loans from banks and the panchayat to start this initiative. We prepare organic fertilisers ourselves, grow the crop, mill it and sell it in packets. But we are struggling due to poor marketing facilities. A permanent stall by the block administration would help us reach more customers,” said Arati Padiami, a member of a Women Self Help Group.
Despite increasing demand for black rice, limited market access remains a major challenge. The women have appealed for better marketing support and institutional assistance to expand their business.
The Koraput district administration has provided black rice seeds and milling machines to women farmers. The administration has also assured steps to promote the produce based on market demand. Farmers in Borigumma, Jeypore, Kotapad and Dasamantapur areas are also cultivating the indigenous variety.
Rich in antioxidants and fibre, black rice is considered beneficial for health. Agricultural scientist Dr Kartik Lenka said the crop can help in managing cholesterol and diabetes. “It is a medium-duration variety of around 120 days, with an average yield of 14 to 15 quintals per acre,” he said.
Malkangiri Collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke said the women have been selling their produce at trade fairs, including the Parab tribal festival in Koraput. “People are also visiting their shop in Kalimela to buy the rice. The local Block Development Officer (BDO) has been asked to address their concerns,” he said.
From fields once linked with an illegal trade to farms producing a premium indigenous grain, these tribal women are proving that agriculture can become a powerful tool for social transformation.