What Did the Sandalwood Development Committee Report Unveil?
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Synopsis
The newly launched Sandalwood Development Committee Report outlines essential reforms for enhancing sandalwood cultivation in India. It emphasizes the potential for rural employment and foreign exchange generation while advocating for government initiatives to restore the glory of Indian sandalwood.
Key Takeaways
- Sandalwood farming can generate rural employment.
- Importance of foreign exchange through sandalwood exports.
- Government reforms are necessary to restore sandalwood's past glory.
- Collaboration among multiple ministries is crucial.
- Engagement with stakeholders is key for effective development.
New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) The Report of the Sandalwood Development Committee was unveiled during an event in New Delhi on Wednesday. This significant event was supported by the Federation of Indian Plywood and Panel Industry (FIPPI).
Former Finance Secretary of the Government of India, Ratan P. Watal, presided over the event, which saw the participation of representatives from various central government ministries and departments. Notably, Rajesh Mittal, Chairman and Managing Director of Green Ply Industries Limited and President of FIPPI, was also present.
The Sandalwood Development Committee, led by Ratan Prakash Watal, comprises members from crucial ministries such as the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Ayush, and the National Medicinal Plants Board of India. Additionally, representatives from the Institute of Wood Science and Technology in Bengaluru and the Forest College and Research Institute of the Tamil Nadu Agriculture University are included.
According to an official statement, “The cultivation of sandalwood can serve as a foundation for generating rural employment and enhancing foreign exchange through the export of sandalwood and its various by-products. India has the potential to achieve Atmanirbhar status while addressing the sandalwood requirements of society now and in the future. To restore the past glory of Indian sandalwood, several initiatives and reforms will be necessary from both the Central and State Governments.”
To address challenges and propose solutions for sandalwood development across the nation, Watal initiated the formation of this inter-ministerial Sandalwood Development Committee.
The committee engaged in thorough discussions with various stakeholders, including forest departments from major state governments, and recommended a comprehensive set of measures in its report to revitalize sandalwood in India.
Point of View
I believe that the Sandalwood Development Committee's report is a crucial step towards revitalizing an industry that holds both economic and cultural significance for India. The recommendations provided can lead to sustainable practices that not only boost employment but also conserve our natural resources, aligning with the nation's vision for self-reliance.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sandalwood Development Committee?
The Sandalwood Development Committee is an inter-ministerial group formed to address challenges and propose solutions for the development of sandalwood cultivation in India.
Who chaired the report launch event?
The event was chaired by Ratan P. Watal, the Former Finance Secretary of the Government of India.
What are the major recommendations of the report?
The report recommends various measures aimed at enhancing sandalwood farming, generating rural employment, and improving foreign exchange earnings.
Which ministries are involved in the committee?
The committee includes representatives from several ministries, such as Environment, Agriculture, Commerce, Ayush, and the National Medicinal Plants Board.
Why is sandalwood farming important?
Sandalwood farming is vital for creating rural employment opportunities and boosting India's foreign exchange through exports of sandalwood and its by-products.
