Gandaki, February 9
The Gandaki Provincial Government has generated Rs 1.135 billion in revenue from the sale of forest produce, medicinal plants, and herbs over the past seven years.
According to the Ministry of Forest and Environment, around 65,000 cubic feet of wood and 12,143 pieces of firewood have been sold from national and private forests during this period. Additionally, 802,629 kg of medicinal plants and herbs have been collected.
Information Officer Rajesh Poudel stated that over 2.5 million labor-days of employment have been created through forest produce collection. Community forest user groups earn millions annually from the sale of forest resources and herbs.
The ministry collects revenue from wood, firewood, herbs, and contract sales. Poudel emphasized that expanding commercial herb production and forest-based industries could further boost income for consumers.
Prem Lamichhane, central member of the Community Forest Users Federation, urged the government to promote fruit and herb cultivation on vacant forest land.
The ministry has also taken measures to protect and utilize forest resources, control forest encroachment on 10.3 hectares, rescue 4,250 wild animals, and distribute Rs 96 million in compensation to farmers affected by wildlife-related crop damage.
