Karnataka

Change in forest policy sought

SIRSI: The existing policy regarding forest produce should be changed as it comes from 30 years ago and is detriment to trees such as cinnamon and dhoop, according to a release by Prakruti here on Thursday.

The non-governmental organisation suggests that trees should be conserved in such a way that forest produce should be available always as some trees are cut to collect forest produce. It has said that acacia monoculture plantations should not be encouraged, and natural forests should be preserved.

The Forest Department should take action against forest contractors who cut trees while collecting forest produce. The organisation suggests that training be given to contractors in managing and collecting forest produce.

Prakruti said that forest dwellers should be given contract to collect forest produce. As much as 10 per cent of tender amount should be set aside for the development of natural forests. A training programme on how to collect forest produce should be organised. Assessment of values of forest produce should be done by the Forest Department with the help of non-governmental organisations.

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