Kochi, 17 September (IANS) The World Teak Conference, which was first hosted by India, opened in Kochi on Wednesday, experts and representatives from more than 40 countries were opened to discuss the future of teak production and trade.
Inaugurating the conference, Rajesh Rabindran, the chief patron of Kerala, faced major challenges such as climate change, quality planting materials, unscientific afforestation, wildlife intervention, and restricted access to markets and capital.
“These challenges can be converted into opportunities through scientific methods, proper training and international cooperation,” he said.
Incidentally, Nilambur Teak of Kerala is recognized globally for its better quality, similar grains and durability, making it a favorite option in shipbuilding, premium furniture and construction.
As a cradle of teak plantation, Kerala continuously managed wood, strengthening India’s position in global teak trade and to pursue responsible forestry practices.
Chief Guest, Forest Inspector General, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, KB Singh highlighted the need to share both successes and failures from teak cultivation across India to avoid repeating mistakes.
He said, “The Ministry has revised its action plan code to integrate modern and digital equipment, introduced a digitized National Forest Inventory, and rolled out a national transit permit system for wood movement with a certification plan for forests and trees,” he said.
Sheam Satkuru, Executive Director of International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), urged widespread-based discussions on the livelihood of teak production, livelihoods dependent on markets and region.
Other speakers include CEO of Ghana Forestry Commission, Hugh CA Brown, Director of Kerala Forest Research Institute, Dr. CS Warrior, FAO Forestry Officer, Kenichi Shono, Deputy Director of Japan’s Forestry Agency, Tomoyuki Honda, Senior Advisor, Iphro, Austria, Michael Klein and Shannet Coordinator of KFRI, Dr. S.
In three days, the conference will create economic assessment, price addition, market development and legal, permanent teak supply chains with a strong emphasis on scientific cooperation and international cooperation.
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SG/VD