Red Sandalwood Promises Leave Farmer Waiting for Buyer After 11 Years

Promises of crores from red sandalwood cultivation have attracted farmers and investors for years, but the experience of an Andhra Pradesh farmer who has not found a buyer after 11 years highlights the risks and uncertainties of this long-gestation crop.

Venkatesh, a farmer who planted around 900 red sandalwood saplings over a decade ago, says he is still waiting for buyers despite maintaining the plantation for 11 years. The saplings were sourced through government nurseries after soil tests indicated the land was suitable for cultivation.

According to the farmer, red sandalwood was promoted as a high-value crop capable of generating substantial returns over time. However, the plantation has faced several challenges, including pest attacks and tree losses. Of the 900 saplings originally planted, only about 670 trees remain today.

Venkatesh said root grub infestations have damaged a number of trees, while grazing animals have also affected the plantation. Despite the trees reaching 11 years of age, he said no private company or commercial buyer has approached him with an offer to purchase the timber.

The farmer recalled being told during the early years of cultivation that a fully grown plantation could fetch significant returns if the trees survived until maturity. However, he now remains uncertain about the crop's future value.

Although buyers have indicated that red sandalwood is usually harvested after around 15 years, Venkatesh said no one has come forward to inspect the trees or assess their value. The experience highlights the uncertainty of claims promising huge returns from a crop that takes years to mature. 

He maintains that the plantation was established through authorised channels and that he possesses bills, challans and other records related to the purchase of saplings from government nurseries.

With four more years remaining before the trees reach the commonly cited maturity period, the farmer is waiting to see whether the returns projected for the plantation will become a reality.