Dr. C.N. Manjunath, the Member of Parliament representing Bengaluru Rural, has made a strong appeal to the central government for the establishment of a dedicated Sandalwood Board. This call to action aims to tackle the persistent and complex problems faced by farmers who cultivate this precious aromatic wood.
The Core Demand: A Central Sandalwood Board
Raising the issue in Parliament, Dr. Manjunath emphasized the urgent need for a specialized regulatory and support body. He argued that such a board is essential to streamline policies, provide technical guidance, and ensure fair pricing for growers. The MP highlighted that while Karnataka is historically celebrated as the Land of Sandalwood, its farmers often struggle with outdated regulations and a lack of institutional support, hindering the sector's full potential.
Karnataka's Dominance in National Production
Underpinning his demand with significant data, the parliamentarian pointed out Karnataka's colossal contribution to the national output. The state accounts for nearly 65% of India's total sandalwood production. This statistic underscores the crop's critical economic and cultural importance to the region. However, this leading position is not without its challenges, which a centralized board could help mitigate.
Challenges Faced by Growers
Farmers engaged in sandalwood cultivation contend with a unique set of difficulties. These include:
- Long Gestation Period: Sandalwood trees take many years to mature, locking farmers' capital and land for extended periods.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Complex laws governing the cultivation, transportation, and sale of sandalwood often create bureaucratic obstacles.
- Threat of Theft: The high value of the wood makes plantations vulnerable to smuggling and theft, requiring robust security measures.
- Market Access: Farmers frequently lack direct access to fair markets and are dependent on intermediaries.
Dr. Manjunath believes a Sandalwood Board would be instrumental in creating solutions for these very issues, offering a protective framework for cultivators.
The Path Forward for the Sandalwood Sector
The MP's intervention, reported on 16 December 2025, has brought renewed focus to an agrarian issue vital to Karnataka's rural economy. The proposed board is envisioned as a catalyst for sustainable growth, aiming to preserve Karnataka's heritage while empowering its farmers. If established, it could oversee research, quality control, and international marketing, transforming the sector's prospects. The move is seen as a crucial step towards recognizing sandalwood cultivation not just as a traditional practice, but as a modern, viable agricultural enterprise deserving of structured government backing.
