Why only Sandalwood?
Being the only tree in highest demand in world, Sandalwood is the much needed tree to the world now for it?s pharmaceutical qualities.
? Have you taken permission?
As of now permission is not required as per the amended Rules but we have to sell the produce only to the Government of Karnataka. So after a couple of years we will report and have a MoU from Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Ltd., Bangalore.
? How about thefts of Sandalwood?
We have real concern for this and take all possible measures to secure the trees in multiple ways. Imbibing Micro Chips is the recent development.
? Can you cut the trees after Maturity?
Maturity is certified by the Institute of Wood Science & Technology, Bangalore. They will certify and the Government representatives will come and cut the trees. Even transporting to Government depot will also be done by them as per prevailing rules.
? Will the Sandalwood be in demand even after 15 years?
Yes. Seeing the present trend of utility it is damn sure that the demand can never be met even after 100 years. Every other day we are getting newer researches for additional utility in medicines.
? Why only Sandalwood when other trees are also there?
Cultivation, Income and profits apart we are happy that we are doing a great service to the society by growing sandalwood which is in ever increasing ever fulfilled demand for it?s pharmaceutical values to the mankind. We need everyone?s kind patronage.
? Why only in Karnataka?
Karnataka is the only state in the world which is blessed by Santalum album. This is the best Sandalwood which cannot be grown anywhere in the world. This is God?s blessings to the State. We want to enliven the blessings with our hard efforts.
Do you have any insurance for this crop as it is a long term crop?
Sandalwood is a wild crop and the duration is longer. Therefore, we do not have any insurance. However, we will take ample care to handle any unforeseen situations. We will be vigilant to explore the possibility of Crop Insurance?
Is it legal to grow and sell sandalwood ?
Law of the Indian government does not specifically prevent growing sandalwood trees in one?s own property. As per the Section 108 of the Karnataka Forest (Amendment) Act 2001, Sandalwood tree grown in a specific land is the property of the owner of the land. The government is also providing to grow sandalwood through State & Central Medicinal Plants Authority and Horticulture Department. After a long time now there is a bit of clarity which will be further improved in coming time.
Is it possible to harvest Sandalwood in 15 years ?
Sandalwood grows naturally in the forest. Indian Sandalwood is a semi-root parasite that relies on host trees partially for its sustenance. The host trees are not readily available in the natural forest in close proximity to sandalwood trees and therefore, growth is slow. There are proven advanced silviculture methods wherein appropriate host plants are introduced and optimum water and nutrients are supplied to let the sandalwood tree achieve optimum maturity within 15 years. The same process takes longer in a natural, wild environment. We use our own proprietary method of natural farming to achieve optimum crop yields organically. Companies around the world, Australia, are engaged in commercial cultivation of Indian sandalwood. They started harvesting and selling sandalwood in the world market since 2012. These companies harvested sandalwood right from its sapling to mature stage which has taken 15 years.
What are your methods of cultivation & security ?
Sandalwood is hardy tree that can withstand dry conditions and also is least susceptible to crop diseases. We select the most suitable sites for plantation based on good soil. water and environmental conditions. We use advanced micro-irrigation methods which conserve and deliver optimum water for trees. We administer natural methods for crop protection and nutrition. A multi-level fool-proof security system will prevent any theft.