Dimapur DFO dispels misconceptions about teak plantation

DIMAPUR — The office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Dimapur Division, issued a circular on Monday, clarifying misconceptions regarding the plantation of teak (Tectona grandis) trees in village areas and homestead farms.

In the circular, the DFO noted that the prevailing misconception has led several village councils to come up with resolutions restricting the plantation or presence of teak trees in roadsides or village areas, under the belief that it poses hazards to human health.

Contrary to this misunderstanding, the DFO maintained that ‘teak trees have more health benefits for humans and economic growth for the farmers than it does harm.’ It is also one of the world’s most valuable timbers and its plantation is an economically viable option, it stated.

“There are thousands of scientific research papers and article publications on different aspect of teak plantation that can be found. However, so far, there is no such scientifically proven findings that teak plantation pose adverse effect or direct health hazards to human health,” the circular read.

In this connection, the DFO requested all the concerned authorities to take note of this misconception and make necessary amendments in their legislation.

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