Yes, it is of course legal to grow sandalwood in India, but not without prior approval from the government. That’s the only thing to keep in mind.
A Quick Look At The Historical Restrictions and Legal Framework
You see, right here in India, in the past, the government had a tight hold of sandalwood cultivation when it came to private land. This is especially true of the Indian Forest Act that labeled sandalwood a government-owned resource. Essentially, even if a tree grew on an individual’s private property, it was considered to be in the hands of the government. Nevertheless, in the last few years, these laws have been modified to let individual landowners grow sandalwood on their property.
So, What’s The Current Legal Status?
You see, talking about something recent, among the most significant changes in the legal landscape took place in Karnataka. The year was 2022, with the introduction of a new policy that abolished the hindrances that were governing sandalwood cultivation and sales. Now farmers’ sandalwood growing can embrace the private land through little restrictions. The freedom of farmers also has increased: now they can sell their sandalwood on the open market, instead of being tied to the government depots as before.
This policy is a revolution for farmers as it has opened new financial paths for them, and they have become their crop’s masters taking full control over it, you know? The high demand for sandalwood both domestically and globally is what gives this law the farmers a possibility to earn as much as ever.
How Can You Get A License for Sandalwood Cultivation?
The very first thing you ought to do if you want to do sandalwood cultivation and grow it on your private land is to seek the necessary government approvals. The task might appear to be a bit tricky at first sight but if all the right steps are taken, it is truly an easy task.
The very first point of contact should be the State Forest Department or the Central Government in order for you to get all the necessary pieces of information regarding sandalwood cultivation in your state, you know? After you have all the information, you will have to write a detailed report regarding your plan for sandalwood. This report should indicate the number of trees you would like to grow, the position of your land, and the techniques that you intend on deploying for planting and harvesting and all that.
After preparing the report, you should forward it together with other required documents and fees to the government. The authorities will look into what you submitted and may require further information. Only then, the authorities will issue a permit that allows you to produce sandalwood if your report is accepted. It’s also important to have an agreement signed with the government containing your promise to stick to the guidelines for sandalwood cultivation. After the deal is inked and the license has been secured, it’s time to get down to the business of planting the sandalwood tree on your estate.
