Union Environment Minister Awards Indias First PRAMAAN Certificates Under the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme to Andhra Pradesh and an Odisha Bamboo Farmer

The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, recently presented India’s inaugural PRAMAAN certificates under the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme. This significant event took place during a ceremony attended by distinguished guests and officials.

The certificates were awarded to the Andhra Pradesh Forest Development Corporation and a bamboo farmer from Odisha, marking a milestone in the countrys efforts to promote sustainable forest management and responsible sourcing of wood products. The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme is aimed at enhancing the credibility of forest products and promoting responsible forestry practices.

The PRAMAAN certification signifies compliance with Indian standards for sustainable forest management, which includes considerations for biodiversity conservation, community rights, and sustainable harvesting practices. These initiatives are part of broader governmental efforts to balance environmental conservation with economic development, particularly in regions dependent on forestry.

The recognition of stakeholders in both government and private sectors is expected to encourage more entities to seek this certification, ultimately leading to improved management of forest resources across India.