The Critical Need for Red Sanders Conservation: Pawan Kalyan

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 195 red sanders logs were seized by authorities.
- Pawan Kalyan emphasized the importance of red sanders conservation.
- The operation led to the arrest of 8 smugglers.
- Red sanders wood is in high demand globally.
- The Andhra Pradesh government supports efforts against wildlife crimes.
Amaravati, Feb 7 (NationPress) Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed his appreciation for the Forest Department and the Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force following the recovery of 195 red sanders logs. He emphasized that the protection of red sanders is crucial.
Kalyan reaffirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to fighting wildlife and forest-related crimes.
In a post on ‘X’, the Deputy Chief Minister, who oversees the environment and forests, commended the officers and staff of the Forest Department and the Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force for their remarkable efforts in identifying and confiscating 195 red sanders logs and apprehending 8 individuals involved in the illegal trade.
“This operation showcases the dedication of our enforcement teams in safeguarding our invaluable natural heritage. Red sanders is a rare and precious species, and its preservation is critically important. Your commitment, watchfulness, and prompt actions against such illegal operations are truly admirable,” stated Pawan Kalyan.
The Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force (RSASTF) reported the arrest of eight interstate smugglers and the confiscation of six tonnes of sandalwood logs, valued at approximately Rs. 4.2 crore, in Komatoni Cheruvu, Annamayya district. In addition to the ten logs taken from the gang, RSASTF also raided a warehouse in Karnataka, seizing an extra 185 logs.
Kalyan noted that the government of Andhra Pradesh, under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, is firmly committed to all initiatives aimed at combating wildlife and forest crimes. “Let this success motivate ongoing vigilance and proactive enforcement to protect our forests for future generations,” he added.
He congratulated the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, the SP of the Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force, the Chief Conservator of Forests in Tirupati, and the SP of Tirupati for this significant accomplishment.
Red sanders trees thrive in the Seshachalam, Veligonda, Lankamala, and Palakonda hill ranges of Andhra Pradesh, spanning seven districts.
The Rayalaseema region, which shares a border with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is infamous for red sanders smuggling.
This rare wood is in high demand worldwide, utilized in traditional medicine and woodcraft in countries such as China, Myanmar, Japan, and other East Asian nations.
Additionally, it is used in the United States and Europe for coloring alcoholic beverages, food items, and pharmaceutical products. Countries in West Asia also import red sanders.