New Rules Grant Indian Farmers Easier Access to Timber Harvest and Sale
30 June 2025, New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at easing the burden on farmers, the Central Government has introduced new model rules that simplify the process of cutting and transporting trees grown on agricultural land. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has issued these Model Rules for Felling of Trees on Agricultural Land to encourage agroforestry and eliminate the bureaucratic hurdles associated with tree felling and transportation.
Why Were the New Rules Introduced?
The primary objectives behind these model rules are:
- To make the tree felling and transportation process more transparent and streamlined.
- To help farmers increase income by integrating tree cultivation with traditional farming.
- To promote sustainable timber supply at the local level while protecting the environment.
- To free farmers from unnecessary government approvals that previously made tree felling a complex process.
What Will Become Easier?
- Farmers can now apply online for felling trees planted on their farmland.
- A dedicated portal called the National Timber Management System (NTMS) is being developed.
- Through this platform, farmers will be able to register details of their land, the tree species grown, and upload photographs.
- Once an application is submitted, designated agencies will inspect the site, and if found in order, a permit will be issued for legal tree cutting.
Which Tree Species Are Covered?
The model rules primarily apply to commercial and high-value timber species such as Shisham (Indian Rosewood), Teak, Eucalyptus, and Poplar, among others. This will help farmers earn better returns from agroforestry.
Role of State Governments
- State-level committees will be responsible for implementing the model rules.
- These committees will ensure that farmers are well-informed about the rules and that the application process is smooth and accessible.
- The broader aim is to encourage tree cultivation alongside farming, boosting farmer income, protecting forests, meeting local timber demand, and supporting environmental sustainability.
Direct Benefits for Farmers
With the launch of simplified rules and a centralized online system, farmers will no longer have to navigate long bureaucratic procedures to cut trees on their land. They can now legally harvest and sell timber grown on farmland with ease. This not only improves their income prospects but also contributes to environmental conservation through expanded tree cover and reduced pressure on natural forests.
Also Read: UPL continues its commitment to Biodiversity Conservation with the Tenth Annual Sarus Crane Count
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