The Sandalwood Development Committee’s report was launched on Wednesday at an event in New Delhi. The launch was sponsored by the Federation of Indian Plywood and Panel Industry (FIPPI). Former Finance Secretary Ratan P. Watal chaired the event, joined by senior officials from various ministries and Rajesh Mittal, C&MD of Green Ply Industries and President of FIPPI.
The committee, led by Ratan P. Watal, included representatives from key central ministries such as Environment, Agriculture, Commerce, Ayush, and the National Medicinal Plants Board. Experts from the Institute of Wood Science and Technology, Bengaluru, and the Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University also contributed.
According to the report, sandalwood farming can create rural employment and boost exports. It added that India could become self-reliant in meeting domestic sandalwood demand with proper reforms. The statement highlighted the need for both central and state governments to revive India’s traditional sandalwood industry.
The committee conducted extensive consultations with forest departments and other stakeholders before preparing the report. It recommended policy measures to promote sustainable sandalwood cultivation and restore the country’s global reputation in sandalwood trade.
