Sambalpur, Sept 3 [UDN}: An Adivasi woman who once depended entirely on the forest for the livelihood and survival of her family has today emerged as a powerful source of inspiration for people across the region. She is 40-year-old Maithili Bhue, a resident of Dhadrokusum village located on the western fringe of the Debrigarh area.
Maithili Bhue has received special appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised her remarkable journey through social media. In a post on his X account, the Prime Minister highlighted how Maithili’s transformation—from depending on forest products for her livelihood to becoming an active participant in eco-tourism and forest conservation in Odisha’s Debrigarh region—has inspired many other women to contribute towards the protection and preservation of forests.
Before 2023, Maithili and her family depended heavily on the forests of Debrigarh for their daily livelihood. The family collected and relied on forest resources such as firewood, mahua flowers, kendu leaves and karadi, or bamboo shoots and branches, to support themselves.
However, a major turning point came in 2023, when Maithili became the first tribal woman to join Debrigarh’s community-based eco-tourism initiative. She began working at the “Zero Point Restaurant”, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Initially, Maithili was entrusted with the responsibility of managing and supervising the 100-seat restaurant. Through this work, she now earns a stable monthly income of around Rs 9,500. This regular source of income has brought greater financial security to her family and has enabled her to better support her children’s education and ensure access to healthcare and other essential needs.
However, Maithili’s journey from forest dependence to becoming a conservation leader was not easy. During the initial stages, she had to face strong social traditions, resistance and harsh criticism from people in her village. Her decision to work outside the traditional pattern of forest-based livelihood was questioned by many.
Despite these challenges, Maithili continued her efforts with determination, patience and perseverance. Over time, the criticism she once faced gradually turned into appreciation and respect. Her success demonstrated that environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods can go hand in hand.
Inspired by Maithili’s example, nearly 40 women from Dhadrokusum village and neighbouring villages have now moved away from activities such as cutting forests and have adopted conservation-based livelihood opportunities. These women are currently involved in a variety of activities connected with wildlife protection and eco-tourism.
Some of them work with wildlife protection teams, while others are employed as drivers. Several women are also involved in managing homestays and participating in different eco-tourism activities. Their involvement has not only created new sources of income but has also strengthened the participation of tribal women in environmental protection and community development.
Maithili’s leadership has also brought significant positive changes to her village. Under the growing awareness and initiatives associated with conservation and sustainable development, greater attention has been given to the construction and use of toilets, proper waste management and improving awareness about wildlife protection laws.
The villagers have increasingly recognised Maithili’s leadership abilities and contribution to the community. In recognition of her skills and dedication, she has been selected as the President of the Dhadrokusum Eco-Development Committee.
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