Rampant illegal extraction of Kashmal roots alarms activists in Himachal Pradesh

CHAMBA: Various social activists, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and environmentalists have expressed concern over the alleged illegal extraction and sale of high-value medicinal Kashmal roots (Berberis aristata), which is causing significant losses to both the state's revenue and the natural forest ecosystem.
Chamba-based social activist Kapil Dev alleged mass illegal extraction of Kashmal roots across the district."The administration gives permits for the 40% extraction of Kashmal from private property, but all the regulations are being violated," he said, while alleging that the illegal extraction is also done from forest land.
Echoing Kapil, President of NGO Parivartan, Uttam Chand Vashishat, said that the plant was in immense demand from the Ayurvedic pharmaceutical industry and fetches a handsome price in the market. He said they brought the issue to the knowledge of concerned officials, yet the illegal extraction of the plant continues unabated.
Rattan Chand, an environmentalist from Gulera village near Chamba, highlighted the significant value of the Kashmal plant, stating its use in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various ailments. He also pointed out that the plant's dye is primarily purchased by the Japanese for paintings.
Humans use its fruit to make jam, while animals like monkeys and birds consume its fruits and leaves, which indirectly help to reduce crop damage.
Chand, who claims to have worked against the illegal extraction of Kashmal since the early 1990s, emphasized the need for stricter laws to protect vital wild resources in Himachal Pradesh. He suggested that the state assembly pass a bill to prevent the plundering of the region’s natural wealth and ensure the preservation of these valuable resources.
However, when contacted, Chamba Conservator of Forests Abhilash Damodaran denied the mass extraction of Kashmal. He said that some people who get permits for Kashmal extraction from private property trespass into govt land, and strict action was taken against them.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chamba Forest Range, Kritgya Kumar, said that regular action is being taken against anyone indulging in the illegal extraction of the Kashmal.
Meanwhile, sources informed that one quintal of Kashmal roots produces 1 kg of powder, which was sold for more than Rs 1 lakh per kg in the market, and the price largely depends on the quality and demand of the produce.