VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh deputy chief minister Pawan Kalyan proposed implementing a single-window system for the sale and export of red sandalwood, aiming to streamline processes and maximise revenue through international e-auctions.
During his visit to Delhi on Wednesday, Pawan met Union minister for Forest and Environment Bhupendra Yadav to discuss the proposal and other key issues related to red sandalwood management.
Highlighting the unique significance of red sandalwood, Pawan Kalyan emphasised the need for centralised policies to enhance its protection, prevent smuggling, and improve auction outcomes.
He pointed out that the Andhra Pradesh forest department could serve as the custodian of the proposed single-window system, handling grading, auctioning, and export operations. This approach, he stated, would generate higher revenue and ensure better regulation.
Pawan Kalyan referred to recommendations made by the Botanical Survey of India, suggesting that all red sandalwood sales and exports, irrespective of where the logs are seized, should be routed through Andhra Pradesh.
He proposed amending central regulations to mandate that red sandalwood confiscated in any state must be transferred to Andhra Pradesh for auction and export, under the state’s custodianship but supervised by central authorities.
“Red sandalwood is a rare and valuable natural resource primarily grown in Andhra Pradesh. A unified system under the Forest Department will ensure transparency, increase revenues through e-auctions, and curb illegal activities. States seizing red sandalwood should not conduct independent sales but follow the centralised process,” Pawan explained.
Pawan Kalyan met PM Narendra Modi
Pawan Kalyan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parliament on Wednesday. Pawan said that he requested Modi to release the funds to take up a drinking water scheme under the JAL JEEVAN Mission Scheme. Pawan also requested Modi to extend the timeline of existing protected drinking water works taken up under the mission.
