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- Recently, as a part of the ongoing ‘Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ initiative the government of India inaugurated a training program on Indian Sandalwood Farming & Management.
- The programme aims at establishing Sandalwood Technology Innovation centres in the growing states, value addition in training & skill development as well as introducing new methods of cultivation among farmers & young entrepreneurs.
Important points:
- Santalum album, commonly known as Indian Sandalwood, is a dry deciduous forest species native to China, India, Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines.
- Sandalwood has been long associated with the Indian heritage & culture, as the country contributed 85% of the world’ sandalwood trade erstwhile. However, lately this has been declining at a fast rate.
- This small tropical tree grows to 20m high with red wood and a variety of dark colors of bark (dark brown, reddish and dark grey).
- Because it is strong and durable, S. album is mostly harvested for its timber.
- IUCN Red List Status-Vulnerable
Uses:
- In India, it is also called “Chandan” and “Srigandha”. Sandalwood has a special place in Indian tradition where it is being used from cradle to cremation.
- Sandalwood heartwood, which is close-grained, is used for fine furniture and carving. The heartwood and roots also contain ‘sandal oil’ which is valued for use in perfumes, incense, cosmetics, soaps, and medicines. The bark contains tannin, which is used for dye.
- Sandalwood essential oil has antiseptic, anti inflammatory, antispasmodic and astringent properties.
- It is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, hypertension and heals wounds and treats skin blemishes.
- Major Growing Areas: In India, sandalwood is mostly grown in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
SOURCE: THE HINDU, THE ECONOMIC TIMES,MINT
