The Central Government has extended the time period for the Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, to finalize modalities for the export of Red Sanders Heart Wood in log form. This extension was granted by a notification dated September 3, 2024.
This extension grants Odisha an additional 12 months from the date of notification to complete the export process.
It may be recalled that the Directorate General of Foreign Trade on November 17, 2022 had notified that the Forest Environment & Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha had to finalize the modalities for export of the Red Sanders Heart Wood in log form and complete the whole process of export latest by October 6, 2023. Now, by the present notification, this deadline has been extended to September 3, 2025.
The decision to extend the deadline aims to provide Odisha with sufficient time to establish the necessary frameworks and procedures for the sustainable and regulated export of Red Sanders Heart Wood. This valuable timber species is subject to strict export controls to protect its conservation.
According to the Pharmacognosy of Negative Listed Plants Pterocarpus santalinus is one of the most valuable plant species found in Southern parts of India. Due to the reddish colour of this plant, it is popularly known as ‘Red sandalwood’ or ‘Red Sanders’ in trade. This plant species is ranked critically endangered due to its restricted natural distribution and depleted population.
The extension does not affect other provisions of the existing export regulations. The Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, is expected to utilize this additional time to ensure that the export of Red Sanders Heart Wood is carried out in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
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