Why in news?
In early February 2026, Andhra Pradesh authorities intensified crackdowns on Red Sanders smuggling, a protected species endemic to the Eastern Ghats and listed under CITES Appendix II.
About Red Sanders (Red Sandalwood)
Scientific Name: Pterocarpus santalinus
Family: Fabaceae
Conservation Status: Near Threatened (IUCN)
Key Facts
- Endemic Range: Found only in the southern Eastern Ghats of India, especially Andhra Pradesh.
- Habitat: Thrives in rocky terrain, degraded lands, and red soil regions under hot, dry climates.
- Growth: Slow-growing tree, taking 25–40 years to mature.
- Characteristics:
- Fire-hardy and drought-resistant
- Produces deep red heartwood, slightly brittle compared to teak
- Highly valued for furniture, musical instruments, and traditional medicine
Conservation & Challenges
- Illegal Trade: Its timber is extremely valuable, leading to widespread smuggling, especially along the Tirupati pilgrimage corridor.
- Overexploitation: Demand has caused severe depletion of natural populations.
- Protection Efforts: Classified as Near Threatened, with strict trade regulations under CITES Appendix II.
Uses
- Cultural: Known locally as Yerra Chandanam or Rakta Chandana, often used in rituals.
- Medicinal: Traditionally applied in Ayurveda for anti-inflammatory and therapeutic purposes.
- Commercial: Prized for its unique red color, used in luxury woodcraft and dyeing.
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