Tripura Forest Development and Plantations Corporation Ltd
Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18)
TFDPC Bhavan, Abhoy nagar, Near Governor House, PO Kunjaban, Agartala, Distt west Tripura-799005 Tel: (0381)2354763 Fax: ( 0381)2359238, email: [email protected], website: www.tfdpc.com
Prepared in consultation with
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF FOREST MANAGEMENT P.B. No. 357, NEHRU NAGAR, BHOPAL 462003 INDIA http://www.iifm.ac.
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Our Mission is to achieve the goals of responsible
management of plantations
Through commitments to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards of Forest Management and Stump-to-Gate Chain-of- Custody Certification
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Acknowledgement
TFDPC Ltd expresses heartfelt thanks to Shri Jashbir Tripura, Chairman, TFDPC Ltd., for providing encouragement for taking up initiative for preparation of Management plans of TFDPC Ltd..
TFDPC Ltd. expresses sincere thanks to Dr Manmohan Yadav, Associate Professor, Team Leader of the team assigned for preparation of Management plan by IIFM, Bhopal. Without his sincere endeavour this was not possible.
We also express our sincere thanks to Dr. R B Lal (Member), Prof. A K Patil Member), Shri Achintya Kumar Sinha (Consultant), other team member not only for writing the management plan of the TFDPCL but also for taking the initiative of pursuing Forest certification for TFDPCL Rubber Plantations and its processing units and training the the officials of TFDPC Ltd.
We also express our sincere thanks to Dr. Alind Rastogi, the then Managing Director of the TFDPCL for taking the initiative of pursuing Forest certification for TFDPCL Rubber Plantations and its processing units with the help of IIFM.
We express our sincere thanks to Dr. G A Kinhal, Director IIFM for his continuous guidance to IIFM Team and support in undertaking this important assignment to its logical conclusion. Thanks are also due to Prof. Ashutosh Verma, Chairperson – Consultancy IIFM for his help in undertaking this project smoothly.
We acknowledge the contribution of the TFDPCL personnel both at the headquarters and at the Divisional level for supporting the IIFM team in preparation of the Management plans for the TFDPCL Rubber plantations and AIE Manual and Takmachera processing unit manual for the purpose of the adherence to and thus seeking international benchmark in forest certification under the FSC. We sincerely thank Mr. Chandan Lal Das, the Executive Director, TFDPCL, Mr. Udhav Tripura, the former Executive Director TFDPCL, Mr. Debanuj Debnath, Company Secretary, Mr. Biplab Dattta ,GM AIE, Mr Anjan Kumar Sen, DM (South I), Mr. Ratan Kumar Saha, DM (South II), Mr. Pulak Das, former DM(North Division), Mr.Vincent Debbarma, DM (North Division) Mr. Gautam Karmakar ,DM (Factory Division) Mr. Sumit Deb, DM (Sadar Division), Mr. Alak Pal, Sr. Manager AIE,), and Ms Madhumita Som ,Deputy Manager AIE for their all help and support in collation and providing the information required for preparation of the Management Plan.
We would also thank to Prof. Nirmalya Dasgupta, and Prof. Indranil Bhaumik of Tripura University for conducting the EIA study and SIA study in TFDPCL plantations areas.
Rameshwar Das
Managing Director, TFDPC Ltd
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The name of Members who participated in preparation of Management anagement plan of TFDPC Ltd.
TFDPCL Team Shri Rameshwar Das (Managing Director) Dr. Alind Rastogi, (Former Managing Director) Mr. Chandan Lal Das, (Executive Director) Mr. Udhav Tripura, (Former Executive Director) Mr. Debanuj Debnath (Company Secretary) Mr. Biplab Dattta (GM, AIE) Mr Anjan Kumar Sen (DM South I) Mr. Ratan Kumar Saha (DM South II) Mr. Vincent Debbarma ( DM North) Mr. Pulak Das (Former DM North) Mr. Sumit Deb. (DM Sadar) Mr. Gautam Karmakar (DM Factory ) Mr. Alak Pal (Sr. Manager AIE) Ms. Madhumita Som (Deputy Manager IE) Shri Pradip Barman
IIFM Project Team Prof. Manmohan Yadav (Team Leader) Dr. R B Lal (Member) Prof. A K Patil (Member) Shri Achintya Kumar Sinha (Consultant)
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Components of the TFDPCL Management Plans Report
Component No Title of the Component
Summary of Management Plan
Part I Management Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18) – Chapter I to VI
Part II Management Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18) – Future Management Discussed and Prescribed - Chapter I to IX
Annexures I to XI Annexure I to IX for Part I and Annexure X and XI for Part II – as per list below
Part III IEA Manual (Standard Operating Procedures/Protocols)
Part IV TFDPCL Manual (Standard Operating Procedures) for Divisions
PART V A GPS Maps for Corporation Plantations
PART V B GPS Maps of Re-settlement Rubber Plantations
List of Annexure Annexure No. Title of the Annexure Part I Annexure I The objects for which the company is established Annexure II Creation/ replanting year wise commercial rubber plantation under TFDPC Annexure III Activity Flow Chart of Tripura Rubber Wood factory, TFDPC Industrial Estate, Anandanagar Annexure IV Cost norms for creation of plantations Annexure V Cost of production of rubber wood boards & sawn timber Annexure VI Sale price per square feet in rupees Annexure VII Price List - Rubber Wood & Bamboo Products Annexure VIII Summary of Study of Report on Environment Impact Assessment of Rubber Plantation of TFDPC Ltd - By Tripura University Annexure IX Summary Report of Socio-economic study for TFDPCL - By Tripura University Part II Annexure X Tree Extraction Plan from Corporation Rubber Plantations during 2013-14 to 2017-18 Annexure XI Plan for Tree Extraction & replanting in Welfare Centres during 2013-14 to 2017-18
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CONTETNT
Chapter Name
List of Annexure List of Abbreviations used in this document Glossary of Technical Terms used in this document Prologue PART I Management Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18) Chapter I The Tract Dealt With 1.1 Name and Situation 1.2 Primary Objective with focus on Social Sector 1.3 Industrial Application 1.4 Maps 1.5 Administrative units of the state of Tripura wherein lies the TFDPCL Estate 1.6 Autonomous District Council 1.7 Configuration of the ground 1.8 Land Classification 1.9 Geology, Rock and Soil 1.10 Climate and Rainfall 1.11 Water Supply 1.12 Distribution and area 1.13 State of Boundaries 1.14 Legal Position 1.15 Rights and Concession Chapter II The Resource Base 2 Plantation Resources 2.1 Names of plantation species under the management plan 2.2 Rubber Tree 2.3 Bamboo 2.4 Injuries to which the crop is liable Chapter III Utilization of Forest and Plantation Ecosystem Services 3 Introduction 3.1 Agricultural Customs and Needs of the Population 3.2 Market and Marketable Products 3.3 Cost Norms for Creation of Plantation and Cost of Production of Rubber Wood Boards and Treated Sawn Rubber Timber 3.4 Current Prices 3.5 Applicable Tax Structure to Rubber wood and Bamboo products 3.6 Lines of Export Chapter IV Staff, Regular workers and Labour Supply 4 Staff 4.1 Salary, Wages and other Personnel benefits Chapter V Past System of Management 5.1 General History of Tripura Forest and TFDPC Plantations 5.2 Past Management and Results 5.3 Recent Initiatives Undertaken 5.4 Five Year Plans and Special Projects Chapter VI Statistics vi
6.1 General 6.2 Yield Training 1 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel on FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations May-June 2012 Training 2 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel on FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations April 11 2013 Training 3 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel on FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations April 16 2013 Training 4 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel on FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations February 28 2014 Training 5 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel on FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations March 03 2014 PART II Management Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18): Future Management Discussed and Prescribed Chapter I Basis of Proposals 1.1 General 1.2 Objectives of Management 1.3 Blocks and Compartments 1.4 Analysis and Valuation of the Crop 1.5 Period of Management Plan and Necessity of Revision Chapter II Rubber Plantation Working Circle 2.1 General Constitution 2.2 General Character of Vegetation 2.3 Special Objects of Management 2.4 Area and Allotment 2.5 Felling / Planting Series 2.6 Analysis and Valuation of the Crop 2.7 Silvicultural System 2.8 Exploitable Size and Rotation 2.9 Calculation and Prescription of Yield 2.10 Selection of Coupes/felling areas 2.11 Method of Executing Felling and Harvest 2.12 Subsidiary Silvicultural operation 2.13 Method of Regeneration – Nursery and Plantation Technique 2.14 Thinning 2.15 Choice of Clones 2.16 Requirement of Nurseries 2.17 Miscellaneous Regulations 2.18 Cost of creation and maintenance of immature Rubber Plantations is given in the Appendix – 4 2.19 Reducing the Ill-effects of Prescriptions on the Environment and Eco-System Chapter III Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle 3.1 General Constitution 3.2 General Character of Vegetation 3.3 Special Objects of Managements 3.4 Choice of Species 3.5 Method of Planting 3.6 Area and Allotment 3.7 Planting Series
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3.8 Analysis and Valuation of the Crop 3.9 Silvicultural System and Exploitable age 3.10 Planting Schedule 3.11 Calculation and Prescription of Yield 3.12 Method of Executing Felling 3.13 Thinning 3.14 Subsidiary Silvicultural operations 3.15 Fencing 3.16 Cost of creation and immature maintenance of Kanak Kaich 3.17 Miscellaneous Regulations 3.18 Effect of Prescriptions on the Environment and Eco-System Chapter IV Management of High Conservation Value Forests and other Sensitive Areas 4.1 High Conservation Value Forests 4.2 Rubber Plantations within Protected Areas 4.3 Sepahijala Protected Area 4.4 Other Sensitive Areas Chapter V Miscellaneous Regulations Including Environmental Safeguards 5.1 Merger of Coupes 5.2 Extension of Coupes 5.3 Petty Fellings 5.4 Grazing 5.5 Deviations 5.6 Fire Protection 5.7 Roads and Buildings 5.8 Maintenance of Boundaries 5.9 Rights and Concessions 5.10 Control of Forest Crimes 5.11 Discharge of Effluents 5.12 Environmental Safeguards Chapter VI Establishment, Workers and Their Welfares 6.1 Present Establishment of TFDPC 6.2 Requirement of additional man power 6.3 Welfare Committees at the Headquarter & the Unit / Division Level 6.4 Hazards & Health & Safety Precautions for Rubber Plantation & Processing Workers Chapter VII Monitoring, Control and Records 7.1 Control and Records 7.2 Control Forms 7.3 Plantations Journal 7.4 Divisional Notebook 7.5 Fire Records 7.6 Record of Damage by High Winds / Cyclone / Other Disasters 7.7 Records of Bamboo Flowering 7.8 Insect, Fungus, Parasite and Damage 7.9 Register of Land at the Disposal of TFDPCL 7.10 Cattle and Game Census 7.11 Stakeholder Consultation and Monitoring of Welfare Committees 7.12 Monitoring, Records and Equipments for Hazards & Health and Safety Precautions for Rubber Plantation & Processing Workers 7.13 Annual Inspections of the Headquarter & Unit / Division Offices viii
7.14 Record of Forest Offences and Action taken in such Cases 7.15 State Level Monitoring Committee for Sustainable Forest Management of TFDPCL Plantations Chapter VIII General Financial Forecast and Financial Plantation of Operation 8.1 Financial Health of the Corporation 8.2 Outlook for the next five years Chapter IX Summary of Prescriptions Annexures Annexure I to XII Part III IEA Manual (Standard Operating Procedures/Protocols) 1 Introduction 1.1 Mission 1.2 Vision Statement 2 Objectives 2.1 Long Term Objectives 2.2 Short Term Objectives 2.3 Targets 3 Assets 3.1 Land 3.2 Building & Construction 4 Activities 4.1 Timber Treatment Plant 4.2 Tripura Rubber Wood Factory 4.3 Unakoti Crafts & Furniture Unit 4.4 Door Manufacturing Unit 5 Organization Setup 5.1 TFDPC Industrial Estate 5.2 Timber Treatment Plant 5.3 Tripura Rubber Wood Factory 5.4 UNAKOTI Crafts and Furniture Unit 5.5 Door Manufacture Unit 5.6 Bamboo Development Unit 6 Training Schedule 7 Material Flow 7.1 Tree felling schedule 7.2 Tree Felling and Transportation 7.3 Receipt of Rubber LOG 7.4 Sawing of log 7.5 Treatment of Timber 7.6 Seasoning of Timber 7.7 Finger jointing of Timber 7.8 Board Composing 7.9 Finishing & Sizing 7.10 Furniture & Door Making Part IV TFDPCL Operating Procedures for Divisions A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Rubber Sheet 1 Background 2 History of Rubber Plantations 2.1 Rubber plantation for Tribal Welfare 3 Harvesting 4 Processing of the Crop
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5 Sheet Rubber 6 Coagulation 7 Smoking 8 Grading 9 Packing B 10 SOP for production of CENEX 11 Safety measures to be taken while running Centrifuging Factory 12 Safety Measures to be taken 13 Felling and Logging C 13.1 Standing operating Procedure(SOP) for felling of trees and conversion of logs 14 Health and Safety measures 15 Training Part V A GPS Maps for TFDPCL Rubber Plantations Part V B GPS Maps for Resettlement Rubber Plantations
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT
AIE Anandanagar Industrial Estate of TFDPCL CAR Corrective Action Request C&I Criteria of Indicators CFLE Centre for Forest Based Livelihoods and Extension, Agartala (ICFRE) CoC Chain of Custody CPF Contributory Provident Fund CSR Corporate Social Responsibility DMF Door Manufacturing Unit DRC Dry Rubber Content DRDA District Rural Development Agency EAP Externally Aided Project ES Environmental Services FCA Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 FRA The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 FRD Forest Research Division, Government of Tripura FSC Forest Stewardship Council GoT Government of Tripura HCV High Conservation Values within forests ISFR India State of Forest Report ICFRE Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education IIFM Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal ITTO International Tropical Timber Organisation JFM Joint Forest Management JFMC Joint Forest Management Committee MoEF Ministry of Environment and Forests NAP National Afforestation Programme NBM National Bamboo Mission NEC North Eastern Council NMBA National Mission on Bamboo Application NTFP Non-Timber Forest Products PEFC Programme for Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes RPC Rubber Plantation Centre RSS Ribbed Smoked Sheet SCS Scientific Certification Systems SFB Sustainable Forestry Board SFI Sustainable Forestry Initiative SFM Sustainable Forest Management SFMS Sustainable forest management standards TBM Tripura Bamboo Mission TCF Takmacherra Cenex Factory TCPS Tapper-Cum-Plantation Superviser TFDPCL Tripura Forest Development & Plantation Corporation Limited TRM Tripura Rubber Mission TRWF Tripura Rubber Wood Factory TSR Technically specified rubber TTAADC Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council TTP Timber Treatment Plant TW Tribal Welfare UCF Unaokoti Crafts and Furniture UCFU Unakoti Crafts and Furniture Unit
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GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS USED IN THIS DICUMENT Anticoagulants Materials added to rubber latex to prevent coagulation before it is processed. Appropriately diluted ammonia or formalin is mixed with the latex for this purpose. Block It is a primary territorial unit of the management plan area, often bounded by natural features, or delineated for the purpose of administration or due to legal separation for preservation or distinction of ownership. This unit has no managerial significance except for allotment of administrative charge. Clone A group of plants produced by vegetative methods from one stock and hence possessing similar genetic qualities Clonal seed Seed collected from a clone (bud grafted tree). Clonal seeds in practice are obtained from isolated monoclonal or specified polyclonal gardens. Compartment This is the smallest permanent sub-division of a forest or plantation estate. It is defined as a territorial unit of a forest/plantation estate permanently defined for purposes of administration, description and record. Cover crop Leguminous herbs and creepers grown between rows in young rubber plantations for suppression of weed growth, soil and moisture conservation and fixation of atmospheric nitrogen are known as cover crops. Pueraria phaseoloides and Mucuna bracteata are the two species used commonly in Tripura. Chupi Broad brimmed hats made of bamboo and palm leaves used by field workers as protection against sun and rains Crepe rubber When coagulated latex or any form of field coagulum is passed several times through a minimum of three mills with heavy rolls, a crinkly lace like rubber is obtained. This after air drying sells as crepe rubber. DRC Dry Rubber Content in rubber latex. Obtained by a weighed sample of latex and weighing the dry coagulum obtained thereof. Hydrometers are used for rapid estimation in the field. Estate Brown This form of processed rubber latex is made out of cup lumps and other higher grades of Crepe (EBC) field coagulum. Processing consists of soaking in water for 24 hours and washing to remove dirt, passing the washed material through a creping battery, air-dried, graded and packed. Latex Latex is the hydrosol containing 30-45% rubber in the form of particles that oozes out from the bark of rubber tree when given a tapping cut. Mulch A natural or artificially applied layer of plants or other materials over the surface of the soil to conserve soil moisture and to prevent rise in temperature. RSS Ribbed and Smoked Sheet of rubber, obtained by putting sheet rubber in smoke house where the temperature is maintained between 40 degrees to 60 degrees. Apart from the slow drying, the creosotic substances present in smoke prevent mould and yeast growth on sheets. Sheet rubber Latex is coagulated in suitable containers into thin slabs of coagulum and sheeted through a set of smooth rollers followed by a grooved set, and dried to obtain sheet rubber. Slaughter tapping Indicates maximum possible tapping and extraction of rubber latex without regard to the health of the rubber trees. This is resorted to one or two years before replanting or replacement with other crops. Length, height and frequency of tapping are all increased. Skim Latex Thin residual liquid of very low DRC, being the byproduct of concentration of latex by centrifuging. This contains up to 8% of rubber. Used as a bonding material in making leather sheets from scrap leather. Skim rubber Rubber made from skim latex. It is used for cheap rubber products. Silt pits Silt pits are trenches dug in rubber plantations prone to accelerated soil erosion to check erosion and to facilitate infiltration of rain water. Tapping Block This represents the number of rubber trees handled by one tapper for harvest of latex; and /task in Tripura the standard is 300 trees. Working circle An area, forming the whole or a part of a management plan area, organized with a particular object under one silvicultural system and one set of working plan prescriptions. In certain circumstances working circles may overlap.
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SUMMARY OF MANAGEMENT PLAN
The TFDPCL as a Government of Tripura undertaking has its mission to achieve the goals of responsible management of plantations by following the sustainability principles of Triple- Bottom-Line viz.- Economic viability, Socially desirable & beneficial and Environmentally sound management policies and objectives.
This Forest Management Plan has been prepared to realize its goal of managing its rubber and bamboo plantations on the principles of sustainable forest management. In its endeavor to achieve the global benchmark in sustainability, TFDPCL has decided to commit itself to the requirements of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards of responsible forest management and seek FSC Forest Management and Stump-to-Forest Gate Chain-of-Custody Certification.
INTRODUCTION
The Forest Management Plan contains comprehensive prescriptions and plan of actions that will be used by TFDPCL to develop and manage, on a sustainable basis, its existing Rubber plantation areas in many parts of Tripura.
Tripura Forest Development and Plantation Corporation Limited (TFDPCL), is a Government of Tripura undertaking with its corporate headquarters at Agartala, capital of Tripura, a constituent state of the Republic of India. TFDPCL manages commercial rubber & bamboo plantations spread over 38 field stations or Rubber Plantation Centers (RPC) and are under the jurisdiction of four plantation divisions, one Factory Division and one Industrial Estate spread over all the eight districts of Tripura. The TFDPCL is one of the high performance corporations of the state of Tripura having contributed immensely in the socio- economic development of otherwise traditionally nomadic communities practicing shifting cultivation in the natural forest areas.
STRATEGIC APPROACH ADOPTED
The Corporation adopted rehabilitation of degraded forestland through commercial rubber plantations on 7087 hectare area as its primary objective along with sustainable rehabilitation of tribal shifting cultivators in the state of Tripura. The Corporation is the pioneer in developing successful models for permanent settlement of tribal shifting cultivators through rubber cultivation by providing each family one hectare of Rubber plantation area for latex extraction. TFDPCL organized resettlement of more than 1133 scheduled tribe families and 70 scheduled caste families under different schemes and projects and creating employment
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for around 3585 people directly and to an almost equal number indirectly, thus contributing significantly in employment generation & socio-economic development particularly in rural areas of the State.
The Corporation is also managing Latex Centrifuging Factory and Crepe Mill; TSR Factory for production of block rubber; Rubber Timber Processing and Rubber Wood Boards Unit; and Rubber Wood and Bamboo Furniture Manufacturing unit. Thus the corporation has successfully diversified and expanded its activities in the value chain and thus ensuring growth, better prices for its produce, value addition at local level and reduced business risks.
Special Objects of Management of Rubber Plantations
The special objectives of management of rubber plantations are: Rehabilitation of degraded forestlands through rubber plantations. Implementation of welfare schemes of central & state Governments for economic rehabilitation of tribal shifting cultivators and other marginalized Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Caste families through rubber plantation. Management of the TFDPC Plantations as well as the Welfare Plantations for sustainable production of raw rubber in marketable forms & then for sustainable production of good quality rubber-wood for further value addition. Promotion of eco-friendly rubber wood & its products to reduce pressure on natural forests. Promotion and esta blishment of rubber latex and rubber wood based industries in the state for value addition. Planned substitution of chemical fertilizer in these plantations by organic manures. Socio-economic development of rubber plantation dependent communities with responsible management practices, helping them adapt to climate change & to achieve environmental benefits like carbon sequestration, soil conservation & protecting soil moisture as well from rubber plantations.
TFDPCL is managing rubber plantations since its inception in 1976 with the species, Hevea brasiliensis (Wild. ex A. Juss., Müll. Arg. Since 2011 it has also undertaken plantations of bamboo like Rupai Bash (Dendrocalamus longispathus), Paora (Bambusa polymorpha), Kanak kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri) and Muli (Melocanna baccifera) considering their potential for value addition and industrial applications. Several other tree species such as Jackfruit /Kathal (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Chamol (Artocarpus chaplasa), Mritinga Bamboo (Bambusa tulda), Barak Bamboo (Bambusa balcooa), Makal Bamboo (Bambusa pallid) are also being planted in windbreaks or shelter belts for rubber plantations with additional attributes of soil and moisture conservation; soil enrichment and enhancement of biodiversity compatible with the objectives of the Management Plan. The rubber plantations th are managed for rubber latex extraction from the year seven after planting till 28 year of the plantations when the rubber tree attains maturity and is harvested.
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These rubber plantations have been raised with two types of planting stocks –Seed origin & Clonal (grafted) origin. The plantations created in the initial years (around 1977-78) were from seed origin only. The rubber trees formed by seed origin seedlings, exhibit strong tapering tendencies in the clear bole part of the stem. Their latex yield is also less. On the contrary, the Clonal plantations show lesser taper & their latex production is high compared to the plantations raised by seedlings of seed origin. Rubber latex can be tapped from these trees in an economically viable manner from 7th year up to 28 to 32 years of age. However, the optimum rubber plantation and harvesting cycle is 28 years.
The planting has been done at a spacing of 3.4M X 6.7M. At this spacing, the trees close the canopy after about 7 to 10 years of age & the canopy density is 0.8 to 1.0 wherever the survival percentage is more than 80%. Thus, a successful rubber plantation can save the soil from the onslaught of rain induced erosion. This factor assumes greater importance in the state of Tripura as the state receives significant amount of rain, especially during monsoon.
The time for harvest of rubber plantations is decided based on two additional criteria apart from the age of plantation-
a. Productivity of latex (DRC) less than 300 kg per ha
b. Demand for rubber wood to meet the commitment of TFDPC Industrial Estate
The period of rotation for these rubber plantations generally is 30 +/- 2 years. Thus, generally, the plantations are proposed to be felled when they reach 28 to 32 years of age. It should be ensured that all existing non-rubber trees in the coupe including those on fire lines are retained and protected to sustain and promote biodiversity. It should also be ensured that minimum damage is inflicted on other trees during the act of felling, dragging & transportation.
The size requirement of rubber logs for delivery to the Industrial Estate for conversion into sawn timber or solid wood boards is between 1 m to 4 m in length with mid-girth not less than 60 cm.
Bamboo Plantations The special objectives of management of bamboo plantations are listed below:
Rehabilitation of steep slopes (more than 30 degrees) in the Rubber Plantation Working Circle through bamboo plantations. Management of pure bamboo plantations of TFDPCL for sustainable production of bamboo. Socio-economic development of members of SHGs engaged in manufacture of bamboo furniture and handicrafts through their training and capacity building. Promotion of bamboo production & bamboo based handicraft & industries in the state for socio- economic & environmental development of the state. Planned substitution of chemical fertilizers in bamboo plantation activity by organic manure according to the strategy recorded in Part II, para 2.13.7.4. Socio-economic development of bamboo dependent communities with responsible management practices, helping them adapt to climate change & to achieve environmental 3
benefits like carbon sequestration, soil conservation & protecting soil moisture as well from bamboo plantations.
The Bamboo plantations include the existing pure bamboo plantations of about 64 hectares raised during 2011-12 and 2012-13 and parts of the coupe/replanting area of Rubber Plantations with 30 degree or higher slopes or areas otherwise showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion. Such areas will be set aside for bamboo plantation and would be made part of the Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle, provided the area available at a stretch is not less than 3 ha. Natural regeneration will be encouraged and protected in the rest of such areas to enhance indigenous biodiversity.
The social impact study conducted by an independent institution shows that TFDPCL plantations have improved the socio-economic status of the local community through assured and enhanced income levels, better education and health facilities and permanent settlement.
Similarly the environmental impact and bio-diversity study conducted by an independent agency shows positive contribution of TFDPCL plantations in increasing the tree cover, avoiding soil and wind erosion. As per recommendations of the EIA a bio-diversity conservation plan has been prepared to conserve high sloppy areas for natural regeneration with augmentation of bamboo plantations where ever the area is more than 3 hectares in one patch. Some rubber plantation areas which have been identified as important for conservation value will be transferred to the protected areas i.e. wildlife sanctuary after logging and thus would be managed as per the wildlife plan.
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Prologue
An Overview of TFDPCL Mission, Vision and commitment to Resonsible Plantations Management
Tripura Forest Development and Plantation Corporation Limited (TFDPCL), is a Government of Tripura undertaking registered on the 26th March 1976 under the Companies Act, 1956 with equity participation by the Ministry of Environment & Forests Government of India. The corporate headquarters of TFDPCL is at Agartala, capital of Tripura, a constituent state of the Republic of India and it manages commercial rubber & bamboo plantations spread over 38 field stations or Rubber Plantation Centers (RPC) and are under the jurisdiction of four plantation divisions, one Factory Division and an Industrial Estate spread over all the eight districts of Tripura.
The TFDPCL as a Government of Tripura undertaking has its Mission to achieve the goals of responsible management of plantations by following the sustainability principles of Triple-Bottom-Line viz.- Economic viability, Socially desirable & beneficial and Environmentally sound management policies and objectives. It has been able to demonstrate its these intentions through its achievements for being a profitable Government of Tripura undertaking, benifiting directly more than 3000 local people through employment opportunites and contributing to environmental good. It is committed to well-being of the local people through preferences in job opportunities, training & capacity building of its employees, ensuring health & safety of its employees and their families, assured payments of incentives & salaries as per Government of Tripura guidelines, providing equal opportunites and benefits to the local women groups, and adherence to all applicable national / local laws and international agreements to which government of India is a signatory.
In its endeavour to achieve the global benchmark in sustainability, TFDPCL has decided to commit itself to the requirements of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards of responsible forest management and seek FSC Forest Management and Stump-to-Forest Gate Chain-of-Custody Certification. The TFDPCL board in its meeting held on 30.12.2013 has “Resolved that the TFDPCL is and shall in future, always committed to adherence to the FSC Principles and Criteria”
It has gained knowledge and understanding of the requirements of FSC Priniples and Criteria through workshops and capacity-building training programmes conducted by the subject specialist faculty from India’s premier forest management institute i.e. Indian Instittuite of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal. The IIFM core faculty has also helped TFDPCL in documentaion and preparation of this detailed
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Plan for sustainable management of TFDPCL plantations and the Manual for its Furniture Manufacturing Unit at Anand Nagar.
TFDPCL has conducted a thorough analysis of FSC 10 Principles and all associated Criteria, applicability of all international, national, state and local laws of the land. A jist of all such applicable laws and international agreements is provided below.
Prominent Laws and International Agreements applicable to TFDPCL 1. Minimum Wages Act 1948 2. Payment of Bonus Act 1965 3. Trade Union Act 1926 4. Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act 1946 5. Industrial Dispute Act 1947 6. Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948 7. Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act. 1952 8. Right to Information Act 2005 9. Factories Act 1948 10. Public Liability Insurance Act 1991 11. Indian Boiler Act 1923 12. Rubber Act 1947 13. Environment (Protection) Act 1986 14. Water (Prevention & Control of pollution) Act 1977 15. Air Prevention & Control of pollution) Act 1981 16. Indian Wild life (Protection ) Act 1972 17. Biological Diversity Act 2002 18. Companies Act 1956 19. Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 20. Indian Forest Act 1927 21. The Indian Contract Act, 1872 22. Negotiable Instrument act 1881 23. Income Tax Act, 1961 24. The Central Sales Tax, 1956 25. Tripura Sales Tax Act, 1976 26. The Customs Act, 1962 27. Central Excise Act, 1944 28. Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985 29. Tripura Value Added Tax Act, 2004 30. Forest Rights Act 2006 (Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act 2006 31. Convention concerning forced labour 32. Equal Remuneration Convention, 1551
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33. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention 1975 34. Discrimination (employment & Occupation) Convention 1958 35. International Tropical Timber Agreement 2006 36. ILO health & Safety in Forestry works (code of practice) 37. Convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora (CITES) 38. Stockholm convention on persistent organic pollutants 39. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 1992 40. Convention on Biological Diversity, UN 1992
TFDPCL as a public limited company complies with all the applicable laws of the land and has committed itself for betterment of the environment through sound mangament practices, provide direct and indirect benefits to the local (and tribal community) people in terms of employment, health and other benefits through activities such as plantations, latex collection, wood harvesting, wood processing, furniture manufacturing etc. It has raised plantations over degraded forests with prime objective of arresting the traditional shifting cultivation practices (slush-and- burn), locally called as Jhum-cultivation. This has resulted into green vegetation over otherwise degraded forest lands on one hand, and has helped the tribal people settle permanently at onbe place through assurances of sustainale and employment and income. As a result the socio-economic status of these people has improved to a great extent in terms increased incomes, and access to better housing, food, health and education. On the environmental front that these plantations have helped not only green cover but have arrested soil erosion, bio-diversity conservation and wildlife survival. The Socio-economic study and Environmnetal Impact & Bio- divrsity studies of TFDPCL plantations and operations have been conducted by an independent academic institution i.e. Tripura Central University. The summary of these studies are Annexed at the end of this report.
Further, the summary of evaluation of TFDPCL’s implememntation of and adherence to and potential conflicts between national/local laws and the FSC Principles and Criteria is provided in the following pages.
Table 1: Evaluation of applicability: of FSC Principles and Criteria and the National/Local laws FSC Principle and Criterion Evaluation of its applicability and National/Local laws for TFDPCL operations
Principle 1: Compliance with Laws and FSC TFDPCL is established under the Govt. of Principles Tripura and complies with all applicable Forest management shall respect all applicable laws of the national and local laws (Forestry, Environmental country in which they occur, and international treaties and agreements to which the country is a signatory, and and labor laws), administrative requirements, 7
comply with all FSC Principles and Criteria. makes applicable tax and other payments, 1.1 Forest management shall respect all national and respects International Agreements and local laws and administrative requirements. 1.1.1The Forest Management Enterprise (FME) maintains Conventions to which India is a signatory, an up-to-date register (reference list; see Appendix 1) of ensures protection against any legal and all pertinent statutes and bodies of regulations and makes unauthorized actvitites and has committed itself this register available to forest managers; summaries of to responsible forest management as per the key regulations are kept in field offices. requirements of FSC Principles & Criteria as 1.1.2 The FME shall comply with all applicable national applicable to its plantations and furniture and local forestry, environmental, and labour laws and manufacturing and marketing operations. regulations. The FME resolves any case of incompliance TFDPCL finds no conflict between laws and with these laws and regulations with the appropriate authorities. FSC P&C. TFDPCL has a comprehensive management 1.1.3 The frequency and nature of regulatory violations plan, compendium of all applicable laws, and the shall not be indicative of widespread and systemic requirements of FSC P&C which are all noncompliance; when violations occur, the FME acts promptly to correct and remediate the circumstances included in this management plan and is made associated with the violation. available to all its managers and operational staff Note: Non-conformance to this Indicator constitutes a at all units/divisions for the implementation. Major Failure and precludes award of certification until appropriately corrected. It has set up a mechanism at the headquarters level, at Anand Nagar Industrial Estate (AIE) 1.2 All applicable and legally prescribed fees, royalties, and at all the Division levels to ensure taxes and other charges shall be paid. compliance to the FSC P&C and all the
1.2.1The FME shall demonstrate evidence that payments applicable laws of the land. A committee of taxes, royalties, and other charges are made in a timely comprising of all the departmental heads at manner. There is no evidence of chronic non-payment. headquarter, Divisional Mangers, CEO AIE, Experts on FSC P & C (IIFM), Bio-diversity & 1.2.2The FME shall maintain up-to-date records of all payments and make these available to the SCS auditing HCVF Expert (Mr. Achintya Kumar Sinha), team. Socio-economic expert (TCU) and local community representatives will guide the 1.3 In signatory countries, the provisions of all binding compliance mechanism. The ED (Executive international agreements such as CITES, ILO Conventions, ITTA, and Convention on Biological Director) will be the Chairman and the Company Diversity, shall be respected. Secretary as Member Secretary of this committee. The Member Secretary will be 1.3.1The FME shall comply with the intentions of the international agreements that India has ratified (see responsible for maintaining the register for Appendix 2). applicability of national/local laws, payments of taxes and complaibnce to the requirements of 1.3.2 The FME’s forest managers and field technicians FSC P&C. This committee will meet at least shall have access to and understand the applicable international agreements and how these are respected in twice in a year and recommend actions for the the forest management. consideration of the MD and BOD TFDPCL. Verifiers: There will be Unit / Division level committees • FME has a compendium of applicable to monitor and report to the MD the compliance international agreements that summarizes how the FME respects these. on a quarterly basis. • Said compendium is available in offices and field sites or camps.
1.4Conflicts between laws, regulations and the FSC Principles and Criteria shall be evaluated for the purposes of certification, on a case-by-case basis, by the certifiers and by the involved or affected parties. 8
1.4.1The FME shall conduct an analysis to identify potential conflicts between applicable national/local laws, the FSC P&C, and international agreements and inform SCS auditors of any such conflicts.
1.4.2The FME is willing to participate in appropriate processes for resolving conflicts with pertinent entities in order to resolve conflicts between laws/regulations and the FSC P&C, as required by SCS and/or the FSC.
1.5 Forest management areas should be protected from illegal harvesting, settlement and other unauthorized activities.
1.5.1The management plan contains express policies The TFDPCL staff shall protect all its stating that the defined forest area shall be protected from plantation areas against illegal harvesting; illegal harvesting, settlement, harvesting or gathering of RTE species, and other unauthorized activities. encroachments (settlement etc.); harvesting or gathering of RTE species; and other 1.5.2The FME dedicates sufficient resources (human and unauthorized activities in accordance with financial) to monitor for unauthorized activities in such a way that these are promptly detected and controlled and, if the Indian forest laws (as detailed at 5.1 & appropriate, reported to the relevant authorities. 7.14 in MNGMT PLAN PART II).
1.5.3The FME shall demarcate and clearly post the property boundaries of the Forest Management Unit (FMU) in the field.
1.6Forest managers shall demonstrate a long-term commitment to adhere to the FSC Principles and Criteria.
1.6.1In the management plan, or another appropriate Included at Prologue of the report as “In its document of broad public availability, there is an express endeavor to achieve the global benchmark in statement of commitment to the FSC Principles and Criteria. When the FME uses contractors, it shall require sustainability, TFDPCL has decided to its contractors to comply with the FSC P&C. commit itself to the requirements of Forest Verifiers: • Contracts contain clear and appropriate Stewardship Council (FSC) standards of language that requires contractors to comply with responsible forest management and seek the FSC P&C FSC Forest Management and Stump-to-
1.6.2The FME shall provide access to written or electronic Forest Gate Chain-of-Custody Certification. copies of the FSC Principles and Criteria to all The TFDPCL board in its meeting held on management and field personnel; FME personnel 30.12.2013 has “Resolved that the demonstrate general knowledge of the P&C. TFDPCL is and shall in future, always 1.6.3The FME shall provide information on all of the committed to adherence to the FSC forested areas over which it exercises a certain degree of responsibility for forest management in order to Principles and Criteria” demonstrate compliance with FSC policies on partial certification and on the exclusion of areas from the scope of the certificate.
1.6.4The FME shall not conduct activities that are deliberately in violation of the FSC P&C in forested areas outside the scope of the certificate.
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PRINCIPLE #2: TENURE AND USE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Long-term tenure and use rights to the land and forest TFDPCL is the clear landowner of the property resources shall be clearly defined, documented and legally and all rights and concessions on the land have established. been settled before hand. There are no legal or customary tenure or use rights. C2.1Clear evidence of long-term forest use rights to the land (e.g. land title, customary rights, or lease agreements) shall be demonstrated. The plantation areas of TFDPCL are based on well defined long-term forest lease rights 2.1.1The FME shall demonstrate that land-tenure and through an agreement with the Government of rights to the forest resource are clear, legally secure and Tripura and a concurrence of the Government of documented. Legal use rights may be associated with: India. These plantations were initiated for the - Authenticated copies of land titles of the well-being of the local community for a FMU(s) - fee-simple ownership transformation from a practice of slush-&-burn / - long-term or renewable lease rights Jhum /shifting cultivation to settle down at one - long-term or renewable exclusive management agreements place and thus facilitation to better life and - other mechanisms allocating long-term or assured livelihoods. There are no disputes of any renewable management rights and responsibilities kind over the tenurial right on the plantation to the forest manager lands.
2.1.2In the case of usufruct agreements, the FME shall demonstrate documented evidence of its legal rights to the The state of Tripura has implemented the Forest FMU and at least 10 years for forest management and use Rights Act 2006 in one of the most effective of forest resources for the FMU under evaluation for way in the country by providing the tenurial certification. rights to the tribal community over forest lands
C2.2Local communities with legal or customary tenure as per the provisions of this act. or use rights shall maintain control, to the extent necessary to protect their rights or resources, over forest operations unless they delegate control with free and informed consent to other agencies.
2.2.1The FME shall identify the local communities, and/or other stakeholders with duly recognized legal or customary tenure or use rights within the FMU and describe the nature of these rights in the management plan. When appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, areas associated with these rights should also be included on maps of the FMU.
Examples of legal or customary tenure or use- rights may include: -public rights of way -established easements -collection of non-timber forest products -hiking, fishing, hunting, or other recreation -firewood collection -visitation of culturally significant sites, such as religious shrines
2.2.2When communities have delegated control of their legal rights or customary tenure or use in whole or in part, this must be confirmed by documented agreements and / or interviews with representatives of local communities.
2.2.3Allocation of duly recognized legal or customary
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tenure or use rights by local communities to other parties shall be documented, with evidence of free and informed consent.
C2.3Appropriate mechanisms shall be employed to resolve disputes over tenure claims and use rights. The circumstances and status of any outstanding disputes will be explicitly considered in the certification evaluation. Disputes of substantial magnitude involving a significant number of interests will normally disqualify an operation from being certified.
2.3.1Conflicts over land tenure and use rights shall be resolved or discussed in a systematic and legal manner, with preference given to voluntary and conciliatory methods rather than the through the judiciary mechanisms (e.g., courts).
Verifiers: - Records or other relevant documents that detail past and current disputes over tenure claims and use rights are maintained and made available to 3.2SCS auditors. - Agreements and / or mechanisms to resolve disputes over tenure claims and use rights are documented.
2.3.2The magnitude and severity of unresolved tenure claims and use rights disputes are minor, relative to the scale of forest management operations. PRINCIPLE #3: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' There are no indigenous people in the state of RIGHTS Tripura as per this definition. However TFDPCL The legal and customary rights of indigenous peoples to while undertaking its plantations, latex own, use and manage their lands, territories, and resources extraction and wood logging operations provide shall be recognized and respected. income generating opportunites to the local C3.1Indigenous peoples shall control forest communities and access to its plantation areas management on their lands and territories unless they for all cultural and religious purposes to the delegate control with free and informed consent to local communities. other agencies.
3.1.1The FME seeks to determine if there are existing indigenous peoples issues (e.g., land claims) associated with the FMU that is the focus of the certification evaluation.
3.1.2If the defined forest area is comprised of or includes lands or territories duly owned or controlled by indigenous peoples, management of said lands is either: i) under the control of the indigenous peoples or ii) undertaken by other parties to whom free and informed consent to manage has been granted by appropriate indigenous representatives, and appropriately documented in legally established agreements and contracts.
3.1.3Where rights and use issues involving indigenous peoples are in dispute, an appropriate process for addressing and resolving grievances is in place and being
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actively utilized by the FME.
3.1.4The FME shall comply with the contracts and agreements established with indigenous groups.
C3.2Forest management shall not threaten or diminish, either directly or indirectly, the resources or tenure rights of indigenous peoples.
3.2.1The FME shall demonstrate, through policies and actions, a sensitivity to the resources and tenure rights of indigenous peoples
3.2.2As appropriate, indigenous peoples are afforded opportunities to participate in management planning, research, and monitoring on forest areas associated with indigenous resources and tenure rights.
3.2.3The FME solicits—through effective consultative mechanisms—the concerns and perspectives of potentially affected indigenous peoples; the results of such consultation are documented, including the actions taken to reasonable accommodate concerns and perspectives that have been received. Verifiers: - Communications between the FME and indigenous representatives are documented. - C3.3Sites of special cultural, ecological, economic or religious significance to indigenous peoples shall be clearly identified in cooperation with such peoples, and recognized and protected by forest managers.
3.3.1The FME, with the participation of indigenous communities, shall define the sites of special cultural, ecological, economic or religious significance. Examples of sites may include: -ceremonial, burial, or village sites -areas used for hunting, fishing, or trapping -areas used for gathering of sustenance and culturally important materials
3.3.2The management plan contains explicit written policies for the identification and protection of sites of special significance for indigenous peoples. The identified sites should be demarcated on maps of forest operations and, where appropriate, in the field.
3.3.3Field workers are appropriately trained in the procedures employed for protecting sites of special significance to indigenous peoples
3.3.4Findings of special sites of archaeological interest are communicated to the appropriate authorities and the FME abides by the restrictions on use imposed by said authorities for these areas.
C3.4Indigenous peoples shall be compensated for the application of their traditional knowledge regarding 12
the use of forest species or management systems in forest operations. This compensation shall be formally agreed upon with their free and informed consent before forest operations commence.
3.4.1Indigenous peoples shall be duly informed of the intention and nature of use of traditional knowledge by the FME. The FME shall not conduct such use until an agreement is reached with the indigenous peoples’ representatives, with their free and informed consent.
3.4.2Where indigenous peoples’ traditional knowledge, intellectual property and/or forest products are used commercially by the FME, compensation for individuals and/or tribes is agreed upon in writing, with their free and informed consent, prior to commercialization.
PRINCIPLE #4: COMMUNITY RELATIONS TFDPCL undertakes training and provides AND WORKER'S RIGHTS employment opportunities to local communities Forest management operations shall maintain or enhance for its plantations, latex extraction and wood the long-term social and economic well being of forest workers and local communities. logging operations and wood furniture manufacturing. C4.1The communities within, or adjacent to, the forest In all its operations and activities measures are management area should be given opportunities for taken for ensuring health and safety of employment, training, and other services. employees and their families. The corporartion 4.1.1Qualified people in local communities are given provides direct employment to more than 3000 preferential opportunities in employment and contracting; local people through its various such activities. the FME actively targets the local workforce The qualified local people are given preference Examples may include: -employment and contractual opportunities in employment as well as their capacity offered locally before they are offered outside the enhancement training programmes are region conducted from time to time in-house.
4.1.2The FME contributes to or directly develops training The local workers are provided training prior programs designed to enhance the capabilities and to their engagements in TFDPCL operations qualifications of local workers (details about training to workers are provided in MGMT PLAN PART IV at para
15). 4.1.3There is active dialogue with representatives of Regular meetings are held with workers and workers and local communities about the identification of the local communities. Records of meetings opportunities in employment, contracting, and training. with beneficiaries are maintained at the RPC level (details at Para 5.11 in MGMT PLAN PART II) 4.1.4The FME gives preference to local vendors of equipment and miscellaneous services, subject to cost Local vendors of equipment and various kinds considerations of services providers equally participate in its Examples may include: all activities and spheres of work including – -timber being offered to local processors before being sold out of the region -utilization of local plantations, latex collections, transportation, banks, insurance companies, etc. wood felling, processing, furniture manufacturing, marketing, banking, insurance
C4.2Forest management should meet or exceed all etc and on account of cost advantage the local applicable laws and/or regulations covering health and vendors perform most of the activities.
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safety of employees and their families. There is a mechanism of dialogue with representatives of workwers and local 4.2.1The FME demonstrates a priority towards worker safety; there is an active safety program, appropriate to the communtites for identification of opportunities scale of operations in employment, contracting and training.
4.2.2Written guidelines and policies, appropriate to the scale of operations, exist for workplace health and safety. For example: written safety guidelines exist for each step of the latex production process, from rubber tapping to The employess of the TFDPCL are guaranteed processing and manufacturing. all rights and previliges as per applicable labour laws at national / local level and in compliance 4.2.3Appropriate safety equipment is made available to all workers; workers use safety equipment appropriately and to ILO guidelines including non-discrimination, demonstrate proper management and harvest techniques. non-employemnt of child labour, equal rights to women. 4.2.4All equipment is periodically inspected and tested for safety performance.
4.2.5Up-to-date information on pertinent health and safety The employees have opportunities for exercise laws and regulations is maintained by forest managers and of all rights to organize and voluntarily negotiate appropriately disseminated to forest workers. with TFDPCL on all matters related to their employment.
4.2.6The FME maintains up-to-date safety records; such Safety records/ accidents registers are records indicate exemplary performance relative to industrial norms maintained in the Factories ( Both Naichherra & Takmachherra) 4.2.7The FME’s policies and labour practices shall The SIA (Social Impact Assessment) study of guarantee the equal treatment of all employees (without TFDPCL operations and activities has been discrimination based race, gender, religion or caste) in relation to recruitment, promotion, dismissal, remuneration conducted by an independent agency (Tripura and benefits. University) through interaction with the local community and the workers and the result of the 4.2.8The FME shall not allow the hiring or contracting of same has been discussed with the local workers less than 14 years of age. In cases of such hiring or contracting, the work must be appropriate to the age, communittes (both man and women) and a it physical conditions, intellectual development, and will be monitored annually by the committees worker’s morale (See ILO India’s ratified Conventions 5, set up at the unit as well as at Headquarter level. 15, 90, and 123 and national policies, Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulations) Act of 1986 and the The outcome of the SIA and its discussions with National Policy on Child Labour). the local community will be given due considerations in the planning and C4.3The rights of workers to organize and voluntarily implementation of Forest management activities. negotiate with their employers shall be guaranteed as outlined in Conventions 87 and 98 of the International Labour Organization (ILO). TFDPCL has mechanisms to resolve grievences and for providing fair compensastion in the case 4.3.1The FME shall recognize workers for their policies of loss or damage affecting the legal or and actions, the right of free organization in any lawful and legitimate form, in compliance with ILO Convention customary rights, property, resources, or 87 and guidance from the Ministry of Labour’s guide on livelihoods of local people, as per the “India and the ILO.” Government laws, being a Government of Tripua undertaking. 4.3.2The FME shall recognize the right of workers to bargain collectively with their employers, in compliance TFDPCL plantations were established to benefit with ILO Convention 98 and guidance from the Ministry the local people as a means to provide of Labour’s guide on “India and the ILO.” 14
permanent settlement of people from their 4.3.3The FME shall have documented procedures to a) earleir system of shifting cultivation. investigate objectively and honestly the issues and discrepancies raised by workers and / or their There are no customary rights over the organizations and b) conflict resolution. plantation areas other than TFDPCL as these areas were given by the state government on a C4.4Management planning and operations shall long-term lease. incorporate the results of evaluations of social impact. Consultations shall be maintained with people and groups (both men and women) directly affected by management operations.
4.4.1The FME shall conduct a social impact evaluation related to forest management activities.
4.4.2The FME shall document in writing the processes that it will use to interact and consult groups of interest, local communities, and neighbouring properties that could be affected during the planning and implementation of forest management activities.
4.4.3The FME shall demonstrate that the information derived from social impact evaluations and/or consultation processes with stakeholders has been considered and/or addressed in the planning and implementation of forest management activities. - For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
4.4.4The FME shall maintain an up-to-date list of representatives of neighbouring properties or communities that could be affected during and after the implementation of forest management activities.
4.4.5The FME maintains regular communication with neighbours and other stakeholders of local communities. As appropriate, the FME’s policies and activities are sensitive to the interests and expectations of these interested parties.
C4.5Appropriate mechanisms shall be employed for resolving grievances and for providing fair compensation in the case of loss or damage affecting the legal or customary rights, property, resources, or livelihoods of local peoples. Measures shall be taken to avoid such loss or damage.
4.5.1Where they exist and can be established according to bonafide procedures, preferably within legal frameworks, forest managers recognize and respect legal or customary rights that are subject to influence from management activities on the defined forest area.
4.5.2Forest managers endeavour, through actions and policies, to avoid adverse impacts to the property, resources and/or livelihoods of local peoples
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4.5.3Adequate procedures are employed for resolving grievances and providing fair compensation where forest operations lead to loss or damage to property, resources, livelihoods and/or legal or customary use rights of local peoples. These procedures should be agreed upon with the parties involved. P5 Forest management operations shall encourage the The management plan for TFDPCL plantations efficient use of the forest’s multiple products and services and the Manual for AIE has long-term and short- to ensure economic viability and a wide range of term objectives of optimum resource utilization environmental and social benefits. at minimum costs and wastages. C5.1. Forest management should strive toward The harvesting of rubber, rubberwood and economic viability, while taking into account the full bamboo resources is done in the most scientific environmental, social, and operational costs of manner by following the principles of production, and ensuring the investments necessary to maintain the ecological productivity of the forest. sustainability and in most economical way by employeeing local processing to the extent 5.1.1. The FME has sufficient financial capital and human possible. resources to implement the management plan, over the long run (at least one rotation in the case of plantations). TFPCL has been making enough profits from its operations even after investing into various 5.1.2. The FME shall conduct a long-term financial socially beneficial activities. projection (e.g., budget) that includes income and environmental, social, and operational costs. The assumptions included in the budget or financial model Its strong financial and technical capabilities must be duly substantiated. have helped it put up a State-of the-Art rubber wood & bamboo furniture manufacturing plant 5.1.3The FME shall make adequate investments of capital, at Anandnagar Industrial Estate. The products machinery and human resources so as to maintain or restore the productive capacity, ecological integrity and from this unit have successfully created a niche socio-economic profile of the FMU. market for themsleves in the state. With the introduction of Bamboo plantations in its 5.1.4Commercial (income generating) activities are operations, TFPCL strives to acheive the triple- financially viable, given short and medium-term market conditions and costs. bottom-line objectives of making profits through Verifiers: bamboo furniture, social benefits to local people - Annual or semi-annual balance sheets or through emloyment & bamboo availability and other records that show the costs of management activities conducted, as well as environmental benefits through checking soil the income received. erosion in slopy terrains. Bamboo is also a good source of fodder for the herbivores. C5.2Forest management and marketing operations should encourage the optimal use and local processing of the forest’s diversity of products. TFDPCL has diversified through forward 5.2.1Management and marketing policies, as well as field- integration strategy by investing into processing level decisions, systematically assure that commercial &seasoning of harvested wood, manufacture of forest products are being sold for their highest and best uses furntiute, and branding & marketing of high-end Examples may include: furnitute products. This diversification has -new products are explored and developed for helped it achieve high level of performance in common but less used species financial and social objectives as well as -access to new markets is explored and developed beenfiting the state economy through local 5.2.2THE FME strives to diversify the mix of commercial value-addition / processing than raw material products recovered from the forest and marketed. exports from the state. Examples: - When financially and technically viable, the FME commercializes 16
non-timber forest products (NTFPs). - When financially and technically viable, the FME commercializes environmental services, such as the protection of watersheds that serve hydroelectric dams or forest carbon offsets projects.
5.2.3The FME has a demonstrated track record of favouring or encouraging local processing of wood, latex, and other forest products. The water bodies in TFDPCL plantation areas C5.3Forest management should minimize waste are allowed for use of the local people for associated with harvesting and onsite processing operations and avoid damage to other forest resources. fishing, irrigation and other uses of water. (Ch IV – HCVF Management). 5.3.1Harvesting operations minimize waste and residual stand damage
Examples may include: -bumper trees and directional felling techniques are used to minimize unintentional tree damage
5.3.2Yarding and log sorting operations minimize product wastage, de-grade and foregone revenue opportunities.
5.3.3Log landings are kept to a minimum practicable number and size and are located so as to minimize adverse environmental impacts
5.3.4Where on-site processing takes place, the footprint of the milling facility is kept to the smallest practicable size; the processing facilities are located in the most environmentally benign locales as well as in locations where losses to productive forest area are minimized. Example: The FME locates charcoal kilns or portable sawmills only after evaluating the environmental impacts of the selected sites.
5.3.5While minimizing undue waste, forest managers establish field guidelines that recognize the ecological value of biomass (e.g., tops and branches) being left on site; forest managers have written guidelines for retention of downed woody debris and standing snags within harvest areas. Verifier: - Written field guidelines for the biomass retention (snags, tops, and downed woody debris). - C5.4 Forest management should strive to strengthen and diversify the local economy, avoiding dependence on a single forest product.
5.4.1The FME can demonstrate its efforts to diversify the mix of commercial products recovered from the forest and marketed. 5.4.2The FME can demonstrate efforts taken to encourage local value-added processing.
5.4.3Where market opportunities exist and where such use 17
does not compromise the ecological health of the forest, the marketing of non-timber forest products is undertaken by forest managers. Examples may include: -compatible uses such as recreation, ecotourism, hunting, fishing, rubber harvesting, Christmas tree cutting, etc.
C5.5 Forest management operations shall recognize, maintain, and, where appropriate, enhance the value of forest services and resources such as watersheds and fisheries.
5.5.1The management plan addresses the full range of TFDPCL envisages identifying various forest services associated with the FMU including: municipal watersheds, commercial and recreational environmental services such as fisheries (or the supply of water to downstream fisheries), ecotourism, recreation; spiritual, cultural visual quality, contributions to regional biodiversity, & aesthetic and educational activities to recreation and tourism as identified by the FME. enhance the forest ecosystem services uses for income generation for both TFDPCL 5.5.2Forest management activities are designed and implemented, spatially and temporally, with due and the local people (included in MGMT consideration to the impacts on the forest services PLAN I Chapter III). identified in 5.5.1.
5.5.3The FME demonstrates an awareness of and sensitivity to non-timber forest services, many of which may not generate income.
5.5.4The FME engages in regular dialogue with stakeholders and advocates of forest services that are subject to impact from forest operations.
C5.6 The rate of harvest of forest products shall not exceed levels that can be permanently sustained.
5.6.1For natural forest management operations, the annual allowable cut (AAC) of forest products, either by area or volume, shall be established by a combination of empirical data and published literature, based on conservative, well- documented growth and yield estimates to ensure that the rate of harvest does not exceed the calculated rates of long- term regeneration.
5.6.2Average annual harvests shall not exceed the calculated AAC. Note: Nonconformance to this Indicator constitutes a Major Failure and precludes award of certification until appropriately corrected.
5.6.3For plantation forest management, the growth and harvest rates (for thinning and final cuts), shall be based on welldocumented information and/or field trials, and be consistent with the observed behaviour of the species at the national or regional level.
5.6.4Harvest levels shall be set such that inventories of desired species increase over time, unless it is established (in the management plan) that current inventories (measured in average standing volume per hectare) exceed 18
optimal levels.
5.6.5For operations entailing regular annual harvesting, the 10-year rolling average harvest level does not exceed average annual increment. Verifiers: - Comparison of records of harvested volume by species (or species groups) with the AAC established for the species (or species groups).
5.6.6For smaller operations that do not harvest annually, the frequency and intensity of harvest entries is set such that inventory levels are allowed to recover— and increase, as appropriate—between entries. Verifiers: - Comparison of records of harvested volume by species (or species groups) with the AAC established for the species (or species groups).
5.6.7)For operations harvesting non-timber forest products such as rubber, management strategies incorporate the best available monitoring and inventory data to calculate a conservative growth and harvest rates; harvest of non- timber forest products is also subject to Indicator 5.6.2.
5.6.8) For timber investment management programs: If growth projections are used to make claims on the rate of financial return, the FME shall include a visible declaration on all material that carries the FSC or certification body trademarks regarding the responsibility of financial claims (e.g., “the FSC and SCS are not responsible for, and do not endorse, any financial or profit claims made by the timber investment organization.”) (See FSC-TMK-50-201, V1.0, section 16).
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PRINCIPLE #6: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Forest management shall conserve biological diversity and The management plan for TFDPCL plantations its associated values, water resources, soils, and unique and the Manual for AIE have been prepared and fragile ecosystems and landscapes, and, by so doing, keeping all these environmental aspects into maintain the ecological functions and the integrity of the consideration for the over all objective of forest. sustainable resource utilization at minimum C6.1Assessments of environmental impacts shall be impact to the enevironment. Neceassry mausures completed -- appropriate to the scale, intensity of forest are taken in implementation of this plan to management and the uniqueness of the affected ensure the ecological integrity and well-being of resources -- and adequately integrated into management systems. Assessments shall include the people. landscape level considerations as well as the impacts of Due consideration is given in its all operations on-site processing facilities. Environmental impacts including – felling of trees, site preparartion for shall be assessed prior to commencement of site- plantations, plantations management, latex disturbing operations. collection & processing, wood processing, 6.1.1Project (site)-level environmental impact seasoning and treatment, furniture making in assessments, scaled to the size and complexity of order to avoid, minimize and or take remedial operations, are systematically completed prior to commencement of site disturbing activities action towards environmental impacts. The use of fertilizers and pesticides is done with 6.1.2In addition to project-level assessments, forest due care and with optimum levels. The use of managers also complete landscape-level environmental plantation material, including genetically impact assessments in which the cumulative effects of forest operations are considered. improved, is as per the guidelines of the Rubber Example: Board (the national level apex body in the - The FME does not conduct clearcuts next to adjacent country). previous clearcut harvests unless these previous harvests have adequate regeneration.
6.1.3To provide background for environmental impact There is no conversion of forest land to non- assessments, the regional, sub-regional, and landscape forest land uses. environmental context of the FMU is established and documented (preferably in the management plan), consistent with the scale and intensity of operations.
6.1.4Planned management activities are appropriately modified based upon the results of the environmental impact assessments The EIA and BD impact assessment has been - For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, undertaken and the RTE species have been only the following indicator(s) of this identified and their management and monotring criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be plan has been prepared and put into operartion. used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
6.1.5The FME demonstrates knowledge of the possible negative impacts of its activities and implement measures to minimize them.
C6.2Safeguards shall exist which protect rare, threatened and endangered species and their habitats (e.g., nesting and feeding areas). Conservation zones and protection areas shall be established, appropriate to the scale and intensity of forest management and the uniqueness of the affected resources. Inappropriate hunting, fishing, trapping and collecting shall be controlled.
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6.2.1Using the best information available and the results of field surveys, the FME shall identify the potential presence of rare, threatened or endangered (RTE) species (see Appendix 3) and their habitats within the FMU (e.g., nesting and feeding areas).
6.2.2The FME shall establish, appropriate to the scale and intensity of the operation, conservation zones and/or other adequate protection measures for RTE species and their habitats. These conservation zones and other protection measures shall be described in the management plan.
6.2.3The FME shall demarcate RTE conservation zones on maps, and when appropriate and it does not interfere with conservation objectives, in the field. These zones shall be respected in forest management activities.
6.2.4The FME shall not harvest species that are included in Appendix I of CITES (also applicable to SLIMF).
6.2.4The FME shall have adequate control over and minimize illegal, unauthorized and/or inappropriate activities, such as hunting, fishing, trapping, harvesting of NTFPs or the collecting of RTE species (also applicable to SLIMF). Examples: - Fences are installed to control grazing when appropriate. - Established hunting or gathering seasons are respected in order to allow for reproduction.
6.2.5Where information exists on RTE species and their habitats, the FME uses this information to map and protect these resources.
6.2.6The use of fire is controlled within the FMU and the
FME helps in its prevention and control in contiguous areas.
C6.3Ecological functions and values shall be maintained intact, enhanced, or restored, including: a) Forest regeneration and succession. b) Genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity. c) Natural cycles that affect the productivity of the forest ecosystem.
6.3.1Known ecological functions and values are described in the management plan and updated periodically as additional information/knowledge is acquired; the FME takes affirmative steps to eliminate gaps in information and knowledge about ecological functions within the FMU.
6.3.2Subject to the scale of operations, the forest is managed so as to maintain a full range of successional stages at distributions within the range of natural variability.
6.3.3The management plan incorporates principles of 21
landscape and ecosystembased planning; the plan contains goals pertaining to biological diversity for the range of spatial scales from genetic diversity to landscape diversity
6.3.4Harvesting prescriptions maintain, enhance or restore natural forest composition; management is aimed at maintaining all naturally occurring species
6.3.5Harvesting is designed and laid out, over time and space, with consideration of the types, sizes and frequency of natural disturbances as well as connectivity of wildlife habitats
6.3.6Regeneration after final harvests are timely and successful; young stands, either planted or naturally established, are wellstocked with desired species, vigorous and on the trajectory to healthy merchantable stands
C6.4Representative samples of existing ecosystems within the landscape shall be protected in their natural state and recorded on maps, appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations and the uniqueness of the affected resources.
6.4.1The FME compiles and reviews information on the amount of representative samples of existing ecosystems protected within the regional landscape, both within and outside of the FMU.
6.4.2Where deficiencies (i.e., opportunities to protect and restore the extent of certain representative sample ecosystems) exist within the landscape, the FME takes actions to make contributions to the regional network. Verifiers: - Information on regional protected areas, such as national parks, is reviewed and analyzed in the management plan. - The FME documents and takes measures to prevent adverse effects to protected areas. - 6.4.3Protected areas within the FMU are delineated on maps and protection policies are included in the management plan. For FMU’s meeting requirements, only the following indicator(s) apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
6.4.4Representative samples of ecosystems are identified, recorded on maps, and excluded from the harvesting area. If existing representative samples of ecosystems are already adequately protected on other private or public properties within the region then no additional samples need to be identified and protected.
C6.5Written guidelines shall be prepared and implemented to control erosion; minimize forest damage during harvesting, road construction, and all other mechanical disturbances; and to protect water resources. 22
6.5.1The management plan, or another pertinent policy document, contains express written guidelines for the protection of water resources (e.g., stream courses and adjoining riparian areas, wetlands, seeps and springs) found within the FMU and minimization of soil erosion and damage to forest vegetation as a result of site The use of Rubber wood planting material is disturbing activities. done as per the guidelines of the Rubber Baord,
6.5.2Prior to conducting site disturbing activities, the FME the apex national commodity body for rubber in shall prepare maps, of sufficient scale and detail, in which India. primary and secondary roads, skid trails, landings, large drainage structures, watercourse crossings, buffer zones, and conservation areas are identified.
6.5.3The FME and its contractors use the maps in the planning and implementation of management activities and demonstrate a working knowledge of the protection guidelines from 6.5.1 and, in fact, systematically implement them in day-today operations. The use forest areas for other uses entails a very limited portion of plantations and is only for the 6.5.4The FME shall have written guidelines for the purpose for associated activities such as storage, construction, maintenance, and closure of roads within the FMU processing and offices. Areas identified for HCVF are not used for non- 6.5.5Road construction, maintenance and closure standards forest areas and will be actually transferred to are followed in the field; road surfaces are well drained, the Wildlife Sanctuary after the current Ruber culverts are large enough to accommodate peak flow, and water bars are appropriately installed. plantation cycle.
6.5.6The FME does not log areas with extremely unstable slopes or at high risk of landslides and avoids inappropriate site disturbing activities in these areas.
C6.6Management systems shall promote the development and adoption of environmentally friendly non-chemical methods of pest management and strive to avoid the use of chemical pesticides. World Health Organization Type 1A and 1B and chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides; pesticides that are persistent, toxic or whose derivatives remain biologically active and accumulate in the food chain beyond their intended use; as well as any pesticides banned by international agreement, shall be prohibited. If chemicals are used, proper equipment and training shall be provided to minimize health and environmental risks. 6.6.1All chemical pesticide use in nurseries, FMUs or processing facilities occurs within the context of an integrated pest management program; pesticides are only used when non-chemical management has been proven ineffective or cost-prohibitive. Verifiers: - Silvicultural prescriptions are selected and designed to minimize the dependence on chemical pesticides. - The FMU can demonstrate evidence of reduction or elimination of the use of chemical pesticides over time.
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6.6.2If the FME uses chemical pesticides: The FME shall have a complete list of chemical pesticides used; - The FME shall maintain records of all pesticides used, including the name of the product, active ingredient(s), location and method of application, total quantity applied, and the dates of application; - The FME shall comply with all safety regulations during the transport, manipulation, application, and storage of chemical pesticides; - Where required by law, field personnel shall be properly licensed to apply chemical pesticides; - FME personnel and contractors shall use appropriate equipment - and gear to assure safe application; - The FME shall provide adequate supervision and training to personnel and contractors related to the transport, storage, manipulation, and application of chemical pesticides.
6.6.3The FME shall not use highly hazardous chemical pesticides as defined by the FSC (FSC-POL-30-601), those prohibited in India, pesticides classified as Type 1A or 1B by the World Health Organization (WHO) or pesticides composed of hydrocarbons or chlorine. Exceptions are made when the FSC has permitted a formal derogation in the applicable territory. In such cases, the FME shall follow the terms of the approved derogation. Note: Non- conformance to this Indicator constitutes a Major Failure and precludes award of certification until appropriately corrected.
C6.7Chemicals, containers, liquid and solid non- organic wastes including fuel and oil shall be disposed of in an environmentally appropriate manner at off-site locations.
6.7.1Toxic chemicals and their containers are disposed of, off site, in an environmentally sound and legal manner
6.7.2The FME shall have contingency plans and procedures for prevention and cleanup following spills or other accidents involving chemical pesticides, oils, fuels, and other chemicals.
6.7.3There are on-site facilities for secure collection of waste, including oil and fuel.
C6.8Use of biological control agents shall be documented, minimized, monitored and strictly controlled in accordance with national laws and internationally accepted scientific protocols. Use of genetically modified organisms shall be prohibited.
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6.8.1There shall be no use (defined as commercial use as well as for research purposes) of genetically modified organisms within the FMU. Note: Non-conformance to this Indicator constitutes a Major Failure and precludes award of certification until appropriately corrected.
6.8.2All use of biological control agents takes place within the context of an integrated pest management program that will document, minimize, monitor, and strictly control their application
6.8.3Use of biological control agents takes place only where demonstrably necessary and only under strict protocols in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
C6.9The use of exotic species shall be carefully controlled and actively monitored to avoid adverse ecological impacts.
6.9.1Exotic species (tree species as well as other flora and fauna) are introduced into the defined forest area only after active investigation demonstrates that they are not invasive
6.9.2Exotic species use is governed by written guidelines for controlling off-site regeneration; active ongoing monitoring is mandatory. Verifier: - Control and monitoring of exotic species is included in the management plan (C7.1) and monitoring program (C8.1).
6.9.3In areas where invasive exotic plants are problematic, the FME develops and implements appropriate control measures
C6.10Forest conversion to plantations or non-forest land uses shall not occur, except in circumstances where conversion: a) entails a very limited portion of the forest management unit; and b) does not occur on high conservation value forest areas; and c) will enable clear, substantial, additional, secure, long term conservation benefits across the forest management unit.
6.10.1The FME shall not convert forests or threatened non-forested habitats to plantations or other non-forest land uses, except when the conversion complies with indicators 6.10.2 to 6.10.5.
6.10.2If there is conversion, this shall not exceed 5% of the FMU during any given period of 5 years and this conversion shall have the backing of the responsible government agencies and the support of social and environmental stakeholders (See FSC-ADV-30-602). 25
6.10.3If the FME has the intention of creating plantations or converting to other non-forested land uses in forests or savannahs, the FME shall supply written, verbal or visual guidelines to its staff for the identification of acceptable areas and implement technically appropriate management practices.
6.10.4Plantations or conversion to nonforested land uses shall not occur in High Conservation Value Forests or Areas.
6.10.5The FME shall demonstrate the longterm conservation benefits of converting portions of the FMU to plantations or nonforest land. Examples: - The installation of a charcoal kiln allows for the use of small woody residues, which can be proven to improve the conditions for the regeneration of some commercial species. - The construction of a lookout tower to detect illegal logging or forest fires.
6.10.6The FME shall not conduct activities that contribute to the destruction or substantial alteration of natural forest, or other natural ecosystem types, in areas outside of the FMU under evaluation. 6.10.1).
PRINCIPLE #7: MANAGEMENT PLAN The management plan for TFDPCL plantations A management plan -- appropriate to the scale and and the Manual for AIE have been prepared intensity of the operations -- shall be written, implemented, keeping in view all the relevant aspects of and kept up to date. The long-term objectives of sustainability principles in line with FSC P&C management, and the means of achieving them, shall be and include the long-term as well as the short- clearly stated. term objectives of optimum resource utilization. C7.1. The management plan and supporting documents shall provide: a) Management objectives. b) Description of the forest resources to be managed, environmental limitations, land use and ownership A public summary of its operations has been status, socio-economic conditions, and a profile of prepared and put on the website of the adjacent lands. corporation. c) Description of silvicultural and/or other management system, based on the ecology of the forest in question and information gathered through resource inventories. d) Rationale for rate of annual harvest and species selection. e) Provisions for monitoring of forest growth and dynamics. f) Environmental safeguards based on environmental assessments. g) Plans for the identification and protection of rare, threatened and endangered species. h) Maps describing the forest resource base including protected areas, planned management activities and land ownership. i) Description and justification of harvesting techniques 26
and equipment to be used.
7.1.1Appropriate to the scale, intensity, and complexity of operations, there shall be a written management plan for the defined forest area that addresses the subjects and plan components enumerated in this criterion, above, as well as provisions for protection against forest fires, forest pests and diseases, illegal settlement and harvesting, hunting and fishing policies, safeguarding archaeological sites, and others. Note: Non-conformance to this Indicator constitutes a Major Failure and precludes award of certification until appropriately corrected.
7.1.2The management plan contains both long term goals and objectives as well as short and near term tactical direction
7.1.3There are sufficient resources invested in plan development so as to produce a functional and effective management plan
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations
7.1.4A written management plan exists and is implemented. The management plan includes at least the following: a) the objectives of management b) a description of the forest c) how the objectives will be met, harvesting methods and silviculture (clear cuts, selective cuts, thinnings) to ensure sustainability d) sustainable harvest limits (which must be consistent with FSC criteria 5.6) e) plans for monitoring forest growth f) environmental/ social impacts of the plan g) conservation of rare species and any high conservation values h) maps of the forest, showing protected areas, planned management and land ownership i) Pest and weed control planned j) Duration of the plan
C7.2The management plan shall be periodically revised to incorporate the results of monitoring or new scientific and technical information, as well as to respond to changing environmental, social and economic circumstances.
7.2.1The management plan is revised and updated at regular intervals, the frequency of which is appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
7.2.2The FME shall incorporate the results of monitoring or new scientific or technical information (e.g., silvicultural, environmental, social, and economic conditions) in the revision or adjustment of the 27
management plan, appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
7.2.3The management plan is revised and updated at regular intervals, the frequency of which is appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
7.2.4The management plan is revised and updated at regular intervals, the frequency of which is appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
C7.3Forest workers shall receive adequate training and supervision to ensure proper implementation of the management plan.
7.3.1Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, there is a documented protocol by which forest workers (including subcontractors and rubber tappers) are duly trained as to their role in implementing the management plan
7.3.2Records are maintained as to when each forest worker received management plan training
7.3.3There is a demonstrable track record of compliance with and implementation of the management plan
7.3.4Forest workers are supervised by qualified managers who provide guidance in the implementation of the management plan.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) apply:
7.3.5 Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, forest workers (including subcontractors and rubber tappers) are duly trained, according to a documented protocol, as to their role in implementing the management plan
C7.4While respecting the confidentiality of information, forest managers shall make publicly available a summary of the primary elements of the management plan, including those listed in Criterion 7.1.
7.4.1Interested stakeholders are readily able to obtain a public summary of the management plan, which provides information on the primary elements of the plan, including those enumerated in criterion 7.1
7.4.2The public summary is appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations
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7.4.3. The public summary is updated periodically, at a frequency appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) apply. These indicators cannot be used to evaluate non- SLIMF operations:
7.4.4. Interested stakeholders are readily able to obtain a public summary of the management plan.
7.4.5. The FME shall update all public summaries at least one time during the period of validity of the forest management certificate (5 years).
P8 Monitoring & Assessment TFDPCL has set up a monitoring mechanism at Monitoring shall be conducted -- appropriate to the scale the headquarters level, at Anand Nagar and intensity of forest management – to assess the Industrial Estate (AIE) and at all the Divisional condition of the forest, yields of forest products, chain of custody, management activities and their social and levels to monitor and assess the yield, growth environmental impacts. rates, observed changes in environmental and social impacts, costs, efficiency, and C8.1. The frequency and intensity of monitoring should be determined by the scale andintensity of forest productivity of its plantations’ operations – management operations, as well as, the relative survival rates, growth rates; logging operations, complexity and fragility of the affected environment. processing and furniture manufacturing Monitoring procedures should be consistent and operations. replicable over time to allow comparison of results and assessment of change. The Chain-of-Custody for the rubber wood logging, transportation, sawing, seasoning, 8.1.1. Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, board making and furniture manufacturing has there are consistent and replicable procedures for the been documented and proper records of these are periodic monitoring of forest conditions, management activities, management plan compliance and chain-of- maintained. The furniture designs and sizes are custody. coded and a proper catalogue is documented and maintained. 8.1.2The frequency and intensity of monitoring shall be based on the scale and intensity of the operation, as well as the fragility of the resources to be managed. A committee comprising of all the departmental heads at headquarter, Divisional Managers, CEO 8.1.3Forest managers have a demonstrated track record of AIE, Nominee of the BOD will monitor the implementing monitoring protocols which are consistent implementation of the plan and ensure and replicable over time incorporartion of results of monitoring in - For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, management plan. This committee will meet at only the following indicator(s) apply: least twice in a year and recommend actions for
8.1.4Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, the consideration of the MD and BOD TFDPCL. periodic monitoring of forest conditions, management There will be Unit / Division level committees activities, management plan compliance and chain- to monitor and report to the MD the compliance ofcustody is conducted, and done so according to written on a quarterly basis. The public summary of protocols. these monitoring indicators will be prepared and C8.2Forest management should include the research put on the website of the corporartion. and data collection needed to monitor, at a minimum, the following indicators: a) Yield of all forest products harvested.
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b) Growth rates, regeneration and condition of the forest. c) Composition and observed changes in the flora and fauna. d) Environmental and social impacts of harvesting and other operations. e) Costs, productivity, and efficiency of forest management.
8.2.1Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, the FME’s monitoring plan shall include protocols to periodically gather information on components a) – e) enumerated in this criterion, above.
8.2.2Written records shall be kept of the annual or periodic harvest levels of each commercial forest product, at levels of specificity appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations For example: - Records of timber harvest volume by species - Records of rubber collection or latex production by volume
8.2.3The FME shall demonstrate a commitment to acquiring and utilizing information on key indicators pertaining to the production, environmental and socioeconomic profiles of its operation.
For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations: 8.2.4) Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, forest managers periodically gather information on components a) – e) enumerated in this criterion, above.
8.2.5Information necessary to judge progress towards management objectives is collected and recorded. In all cases this will include: _ Amount of all commercial forest products harvested, by species _ Effects of operations as identified under Criteria 6.1 _ Changes in features identified under Criteria 6.2 _ Annual monitoring of high conservation values identified under Criteria 9.1 _ Invasive exotic species For example: • Records of timber harvest volume by species • Records of rubber collection or latex production by volume
C8.3Documentation shall be provided by the forest manager to enable monitoring and certifying organizations to trace each forest product from its origin, a process known as the "chain of custody."
8.3.1The FME shall have written procedures for the tracking of certified products, also known as “Chain-of- 30
Custody” (COC). At a minimum, these procedures shall include: • The measures to control and track data related to volume and origin of harvested forest products (e.g., weights, inventories, and other measurements) in the forest, during transport, in logging decks and landings and processing centres controlled by the FME; A description of the FSC product group (e.g., FSCPure rubber sheets) and the FME’s certificate code (e.g., SCS-FM/COCXXXXXX) on invoices and other documentation related to the sale of certified products; and • A description of the measures used to segregate certified forest products from noncertified ones through marking, labels, separate storage, and invoices or other documentation that accompanies the product until the point of sale, or the “forest gate.”
8.3.1) The FME shall implement consistently the COC procedures defined in indicator 8.3.1.
8.3.2If the FME wants to use the logo and/or other trademarks of FSC or SCS on its products or in publications, including websites, it shall ask for documented approval from SCS prior to use.
C8.4The results of monitoring shall be incorporated into the implementation and revision of the management plan.
8.4.1The FME shall demonstrate a commitment to adaptive management where information gathered during systematic monitoring is incorporated into revisions to the management plan, as well as revisions to its annexes, standard operating procedures or other planning documents (see Criterion 7.2).
8.4.2The evolution of the management plan over successive revisions demonstrates that the results of monitoring are being appropriately incorporated and used to implement new or modified procedures in the field.
8.4.3The FME shall demonstrate a commitment to adaptive management where information gathered during systematic monitoring is incorporated into revisions to the management plan, as well as revisions to its annexes, standard operating procedures or other planning documents (see Criterion 7.2).
C8.5. While respecting the confidentiality of information, forest managers shall make publicly available a summary of the results of monitoring indicators,
8.5.1The FME shall make available a public summary of the results of periodic monitoring that addresses the indicators listed in criterion 8.2.1 31
8.5.2The FME shall propose and respect an adequate and economically realistic time period for the periodic update of the public summary of monitoring, appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations.
8.5.3For timber investment programs, the FME shall make public, at least to its investors and/or shareholders, the results and analysis of the forest inventory program.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
8.5.4Upon request, the FME shall make available the results of monitoring (see 8.2.4) pertinent to stakeholders who could be affect directly or indirectly by forest management activities (e.g., (neighbouring properties, affected communities).
8.5.5The FME shall update all public summaries at least one time during the period of validity of the forest management certificate (5 years).
PRINCIPLE #9: MAINTENANCE OF HIGH An ssessment to determine presence of attributes CONSERVATION VALUE FORESTS of HCVF has been undertaken through Management activities in high conservation value forests stakeholder consultation and conservation values shall maintain or enhance the attributes, which define such have been identified and management strategies forests. Decisions regarding high conservation value thereof have been suggested Measures to forests shall always be considered in the context of a precautionary approach. maintain and enhance the conservation attributes of HCVFs have also been undertaken and public C9.1 Assessment to determine the presence of the summary of management plan for HCVFs has attributes consistent with High Conservation Value been prepared. Forests will be completed, appropriate to scale and intensity of forest management.
9.1.1The FME shall conduct an evaluation to identify High The effectiveness of measures for conservation Conservation Values (HCV) attributes present in the FMU. of HCVF will be assessed through an annual This evaluation, at a minimum, shall include: Consultation of regional or national monitoring mechanism as outlined in chapter IV. conservation databases and maps; - Consultation of the national HCVF toolkit, if it exists, or the first and third parts of the international toolkit for HCV presence (see HCVF Toolkit by WWF)2; - Consideration of forest inventory data and observations from field workers, contractors or consultants of the FME; - Interviews with biologist and scientific experts, local communities, and other stakeholders; Identification and documentation of possible
9.1.2For non-SLIMF operations, the FME shall: Provide a written evaluation for HCVs that includes the elements of 9.1.1 and proposals to protect these HCVs; 32
- Provide a technical explanation for the HCVs identified and the recommendations presented for the protection of these attributes; and - Demonstrate that actions are being taken to protect and/or reduce threats to HCVs that stem from the FME’s management activities.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF equirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non- SLIMF operations:
9.1.3The FME shall consult environmental stakeholders, government officials or researchers to identify HCVs and/or HCVFs. If there are HVCs or HCVFs present, the FME shall take all reasonable action to protect these values and/or reduce threats to them.
9.1.4The FME shall consult the national HCVF toolkit, if it exists, or the first and third parts of the international toolkit for HCV presence (see footnote below).
C9.2. The consultative portion of the certification process must place emphasis on the identified conservation attributes, and options for the maintenance thereof.
9.2.1The results of stakeholder consultation related to HCVs shall specify clearly the conservation values that were identified, as well as the proposed strategies for their maintenance, enhancement or reduction of threats. Non- SLIMF FMEs shall document this consultation.
9.2.2The FME shall maintain a list of all of pertinent stakeholders that the certifier can interview related to HCVFs.
9.2.3The results of stakeholder consultation shall indicate that the FME consistently considers and protects areas of HCV.
C9.3. The management plan shall include and implement specific measures that ensure the maintenance and/or enhancement of the applicable conservation attributes consistent with the precautionary approach. These measures shall be specifically included in the publicly available management plan summary.
9.3.1The FME, in the management plan and its public summary, shall describe the conservation values of each area of HCV identified in the FME, as well as the actions taken to maintain and/or enhance these values.
9.3.2. A) For non-SLIMF operations, the FME shall propose and respect an adequate and economically realistic 33
time period for the periodic update of the public summary of areas of HCV, appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations. B) For SLIMFs, the FME shall update all public summaries at least one time during the period of validity of the forest management certificate (5 years).
9.3.3. The FME shall provide evidence in the field that it takes measures to protect HCVs, consistent with a precautionary approach.
C9.4. Annual monitoring shall be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the measures employed to maintain or enhance the applicable conservation attributes.
9.4.1. Measurable effectiveness indicators are developed and presented in the HCVF section of the management plan.
9.4.2. Appropriate to the scale of and intensity of operations, annual monitoring is conducted that focuses on the effectiveness by which HCVF management and protection measures are maintaining and/or enhancing the pertinent conservation attributes according to the indicators developed in 9.4.1.
9.4.3. The results of HCVF monitoring are used adaptively in modifying HCVF management and protection policies, as well in revising the management plan
P10 Plantations shall be planned and managed in A comprehensive management plan for rubber accordance with Principles and Criteria 1 9, and Principle and bamboo plantations covering silvicultural, 10 and its Criteria. While plantations can provide an array socio-economic objectives, soil & water of social and economic benefits, and can contribute to satisfying the world's needs for forest products, they conservation, integrated pest management, should complement the management of, reduce pressures species selction etc. has been prepared keeping on, and promote the restoration and conservation of natural the harvest cycle in consideration. forests.
C 10.1. The management objectives of the plantation, including natural forest conservation and restoration objectives, shall be explicitly stated in the management plan, and clearly demonstrated in the implementation of the plan.
10.1.1. The management plan for plantations shall include silvicultural and socioeconomic objectives, as well as for conservation and restoration of natural forests.
10.1.2. The FME shall demonstrate evidence of implementation of the objectives identified in 10.1.1 and their associated policies in forest management activities and/or administrative actions.
C 10.2. The design and layout of plantations should promote the protection, restoration and conservation of natural forests, and not increase pressures on natural forests. Wildlife corridors, streamside zones and a
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mosaic of stands of different ages and rotation periods shall be used in the layout of the plantation, consistent with the scale of the operation. The scale and layout of plantation blocks shall be consistent with the patterns of forest stands found within the natural landscape.
10.2.1. The spatial pattern of planted stands within the plantation forest operation mimics natural patterns found within the landscape.
10.2.2. Streamside buffer zones are established, within which natural vegetative cover is maintained or established. Width of buffer zones meet or exceed regional norms
10.2.3. Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, natural vegetative corridors are established for wildlife movement
10.2.4. The plantation design includes stands with a diversity of age classes and rotation periods.
C10.3. Diversity in the composition of plantations is preferred, so as to enhance economic, ecological and social stability. Such diversity may include the size and spatial distribution of management units within the landscape, number and genetic composition of species, age classes and structures.
10.3.1. A variety of species or provenances are employed in the planting program
10.3.2. The management regime introduces diversity through practices such as: variable rotations, cut blocks of different size and shape, maintenance of volunteer (naturally established) seedlings within planted stands
10.3.3. The plantation forest management plan contains biodiversity objectives, policies and guidelines.
C10.4. The selection of species for planting shall be based on their overall suitability for the site and their appropriateness to the management objectives. In order to enhance the conservation of biological diversity, native species are preferred over exotic species in the establishment of plantations and the restoration of degraded ecosystems. Exotic species, which shall be used only when their performance is greater than that of native species, shall be carefully monitored to detect unusual mortality, disease, or insect outbreaks and adverse ecological impacts.
10.4.1. Exotic tree species are planted only after an assessment of native species is conducted, in which it is demonstrated that native species cannot achieve comparable performance levels
10.4.2. Periodic monitoring is conducted of the 35
adaptability of exotic stands, as indicated by measured levels of mortality, disease and insect outbreaks
10.4.3. Selection of plantation species and provenances is based on documented trials that demonstrate their suitability to the plantation sites and management objectives
10.4.4. Information about the source of seed or planting stock is presented in the management plan or another suitable document
C10.5. A proportion of the overall forest management area, appropriate to the scale of the plantation, shall be managed so as to restore the site to a natural forest cover.
10.5.1. Representative samples of existing natural ecosystems are being protected or restored in their natural state, on- or off-site.
10.5.2. The percentage of the plantation forest operation that is devoted to natural forest cover exceeds regional plantation forestry norms.
10.5.3. Areas of natural forest or natural vegetative cover within the FMU are delineated on maps and, as necessary, delineated in the field for purposes of assuring protection.
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) of this criterion apply; the indicator(s) are not to be used for assessing non-SLIMF operations:
10.5.4. Plantation design and management practices shall maintain or enhance ecological values, especially those that relate to protected areas.
10.5.5. Where it is ecologically and economically unviable for a small plantation to manage a restoration area, the plantation manager or group is able to demonstrate off-site contributions to the management and/or restoration of similar landscape and ecosystem types either jointly with other adjacent small operations, or in-kind by supporting an existing protected area.
C10.6. Measures shall be taken to maintain or improve soil structure, fertility, and biological activity. The techniques and rate of harvesting, road and trail construction and maintenance, and the choice of species shall not result in long term soil degradation or adverse impacts on water quality, quantity or substantial deviation from stream course drainage patterns.
10.6.1. Plantation forest managers actively engage in field research to assess trends in soil productivity; soil types found within the plantation forest area are mapped and considered during field operations. 36
10.6.2. Prescriptions for the establishment, tending and final harvest of planted stands are designed with consideration to soil health and productivity.
10.6.3. Site disturbing activities do not adversely impact aquatic and riparian resources including water quality and do not significantly alter the hydrologic characteristics of the site; planted stand establishment is limited to flat or gently sloping terrain.
10.6.4. All stream courses within the operating area are identified and mapped.
10.6.5. The management plan contains policies and guidelines for soil maintenance and water quality protection.
C10.7. Measures shall be taken to prevent and minimize outbreaks of pests, diseases, fire and invasive plant introductions. Integrated pest management shall form an essential part of the management plan, with primary reliance on prevention and biological control methods rather than chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Plantation management should make every effort to move away from chemical pesticides and fertilizers, including their use in nurseries. The use of chemicals is also covered in Criteria 6.6 and 6.7.
10.7.1. Plantation forest standard operating procedures include regular monitoring for pest and pathogen activity, inordinate levels of mortality, and the spread of invasive exotic plants.
10.7.2. The management plan contains policies and guidelines for integrated pest management that are demonstrably followed in the field.
10.7.3. The FME, through its policies and actions, demonstrates a commitment to progressively lessen the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
10.7.4. Appropriate to the scale and intensity of operations, is the FME has a written fire prevention and suppression plan.
C10.8. Appropriate to the scale and diversity of the operation, monitoring of plantations shall include regular assessment of potential on-site and off-site ecological and social impacts, (e.g., natural regeneration, effects on water resources and soil fertility, and impacts on local welfare and social well- being), in addition to those elements addressed in Principles 8, 6 and 4. No species should be planted on a large scale until local trials and/or experience have shown that they are ecologically well-adapted to the site, are not invasive, and do not have significant negative ecological impacts on other ecosystems. Special attention will be paid to social issues of land 37
acquisition for plantations, especially the protection of local rights of ownership, use or access.
10.8.1. Monitoring incorporates ecological and social impacts of plantation forest activities, see Criterion 4.4 and 8.2
10.8.2. Monitoring focuses on both on-site and off-site impacts such as landscape level effects generated by the species that are being planted
10.8.3. Species are selected for planting only after local trials and other empirical evidence demonstrates their suitability to the site
10.8.4. Acquisition of land for establishment of plantation forests does not adversely impact, without due compensation, local ownership rights or access/use patterns
- For FMU’s meeting SLIMF requirements, only the following indicator(s) apply
10.8.5. Monitoring incorporates ecological and social impacts of plantation forest activities, see Criterion 4.4 and 8.2.
C10.9. Plantations established in areas converted from natural forests after November 1994 normally shall not qualify for certification. Certification may be allowed in circumstances where sufficient evidence is submitted to the certification body that the manager/owner is not responsible directly or indirectly of such conversion.
10.9.1. Records are of sufficient detail to enable the SCS auditor(s) to determine if conversion of natural forests to plantations has occurred since November, 1994
10.9.2. Any such conversions, if they have taken place, can be demonstrated to not be attributable to the current managers/owners
10.9.3. In cases of conversion post-November 1994, actions shall be taken that compensate said conversion convincingly with the support of field evidence and interviews and/or evidence obtained from stakeholders.
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TFDPCL Chain-of-Custody Commitement for Rubberwood and Bamboo harvested from its plantations FSC Requirements TFDPCL Applicability and Commitment 1.0 Quality Management The TFDPCL has designated its Executive Director / 1.1 The organization shall appoint a management Company Secretary as responsible position for representative as having overall responsibility and TFDPCL’s compliance for Chain-of-custody authority for the organization’s compliance with all requirements of FSC standard for Rubber wood and applicable requirements of this standard. bamboo harvested from its plantation areas, their transportation to the AIE unit and its use at AIE for manufacture of furniture products and for sale as seasoned wood. The Divisional Managers of its plantation areas and the CEO of the AIE shall be responsible for the compliance FSC CoC requirements.
1.2 The FME shall maintain complete records of all TFDPCL has applied for FSC FM & CoC FSC related COC activities, including sales and certification and FSC logo use for its wood furniture training, for at least 5 years. products. It commits to maintain all records of sale of FSC certified products with FSC logo use. It has conducted training programme for FSC certification requirements and will supplement the capacity building of its employees from time to time so as to ensure compliance to FSC FM/COC certification requirements. 1.3 The FME shall define its forest gate(s) (check all TFDPCL has identified the stump-to-forest gate trail that apply): The forest gate is defined as the point of its Rubber wood and Bamboo harvested from its where the change in ownership of the certified-forest plantation areas to the AIE unit at Anand nagar. This product occurs. includes marking of the trees before harvesting, marking of the logs at the time of harvesting, recoding of volumes at the Harvesting place, transit pass for the harvested volume, recording of the raw wood at the AIE for processing and further use. At the AIE all processes such as Sawing, sizing, treatment, seasoning, board making and furniture making have been documented in the AIE manual.The furniture made from this FSC certified wood will be sold as FSC 100% under the FSC logo- use certificate along with the Unakoti brand name of TFDPCL furniture. The FSC logo will also be used in promotional materials like TFDPCL stationery, advertisements, hordings etc. in Agartala city in the first year of its operations. The TFDPCL staffs at headquarters, Divisions and the AIE have been trained for the FSC CoC requirements.
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1.4 The FME shall have sufficient control over its TFDPCL is using the rubber wood harvested from its forest gate(s) to ensure that there is no risk of mixing plantation areas only and thus there is scope for any of FSC certified forest products covered by the scope mixing of uncertified wood. The use of bamboo in of the FM/COC certificate with forest products from some furniture products is currently sourced from outside of the scope prior to the transfer of ownership. outsode sources, as its own plantations are not yet matured. These bamboo based furniture are made in a physically separated premise, recorded, stored and sold separately with clear segregation of these products from the rubberwood products.
1.5 The FME and its contractors shall not process FSC The ownership of rubberwood harvested from its certified material prior to transfer of ownership at the certified plantations and transported to its AIE forest gate without conforming to applicable chain of processing and then furniture manufacturing remains custody requirements. with TFDPCL and the same is proposed to be used as NOTE: This does not apply to log cutting or de-barking units, small portable sawmills oron-site processing of certified material. chips/biomass originatingfrom the FMU under evaluation. Thus the forest-gate for Rubber wood is the sale of rubberwood boards and furniture from the TFDPCL AIE unit. 2. 0 Product Control, Sales and Delivery 2.1. Products from the certified forest area shall be The rubberwood harvested from its certified identifiable as certified at the forest gate(s). plantations and used for rubberwood boards and furniture manufacturing at AIE is identified as certified at forest-gate. 2.2 The FME shall maintain records of It has appropriate records of quantities and volumes quantities/volumes of FSC-certified product(s). of FSC-certified products. 2.3. The FME shall ensure that all sales documents It has appropriate sales documents for sale of issued for outputs sold with FSC claims include the furniture with all details of organization, product following information: description and quantity and the customer details. a) name and contact details of the organization; Thus evidence of meeting the FSC FM/COC b) name and address of the customer; requirements records of quantities and volumes of c) date when the document was issued; d) description of the product; FSC-certified products and eligibility for claim for e) quantity of the products sold; “FSC 100%”. f) the organization’s FSC Forest Management (FM/COC) or FSC Controlled Wood (CW/FM) code; g) clear indication of the FSC claim for each product item or the total products as follows: i. the claim “FSC 100%” for products from FSC 100% product groups; ii. the claim “FSC Controlled Wood” forproducts from FSC Controlled Wood product groups. h) If separate transport documents are issued, information sufficient to link the sales document and related transport documentation to each other. 2.4 The FME shall include the same information as The delivery documents contain detail information as required in 1.2.3 in the related delivery above. documentation, if the sales document (or copy of it) is not included with the shipment of the product. Note:2.3 and 2.4 above are based on FSC-STD-40-004 V2-1 Clause 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 2.5 When the FME has demonstrated it is not able to include the required FSC claim as specified above in 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 in sales and delivery documents due to space constraints, through an exception, SCS can approve the required information to be provided through supplementary evidence (e.g. supplementary 40
letters, a link to the own company’s webpage with verifiable product information). This practice is only acceptable when SCS is satisfied that the supplementary method proposed by the FME complies with the following criteria: a) There is no risk that the customer will misinterpret which products are or are not FSC certified in the document; b) The sales and delivery documents contain visible and understandable information so that the customer is aware that the full FSC claim is provided through supplementary evidence; c) In cases where the sales and delivery documents contain multiple products with different FSC Claims, a clear identification for each product shall be included to cross-reference it with the associated FSC claim provided in the supplementary evidence. FSC-ADVICE-40-004-05 3. 0 Labeling and Promotion 3.1 Describe where/how the organization uses the SCS TFDPCL proposes to use FSC logo on its rubber and FSC trademarks for promotion. wood furniture with immediate effect and for bamboo furniture when bamboo harvest starts from its own plantations (2-3 years from now). It also seeks FSC logo use on its satationery and promotional advertisements – Hoardings in the city of Agartala. 3.2 The FME shall request authorization from SCS to TFDPCL seeks FSC logo use on its rubberwood and use the FSC on-product labels and/or FSC trademarks bamboo furniture, satationery and promotional for promotional use. advertisements – Hoardings in the city of Agartala. 3.3 Records of SCS and/or FSC trademark use authorizations shall be made available upon request. 4.0 Outsourcing 4.1 The FME shall provide the names and contact TFDPCL is using a third party for furniture details of all outsourced service providers. manufacturing in its own premises and has provided the details to the audit team. 4.2 The FME shall have a control system for the TFDPCL has complete control over records and outsourced process which ensures that: inventory of rubber wood used in furniture a) The material used for the production of FSC manufacturing by the third party. certified material is traceable and not mixed with any The outsourcer follows the requirements of FSC other material prior to the point of transfer of legal standard. ownership; b) The outsourcer keeps records of FSC-certified material covered under the outsourcing agreement; c) The FME issues the final invoice for the processed or produced FSC-certified material following outsourcing; d) The outsourcer only uses FSC trademarks on products covered by the scope of the outsourcing agreement and not for promotional use. 5. 0 Training and/or Communication Strategies 5.1 All relevant FME staff and outsourcers shall be TFDPCL has provided training to its all staff trained in the FME’s COC control system members on FSC FM/COC certification commensurate with the scale and intensity of requirements including the third party. operations and shall demonstrate competence in implementing the FME’s COC control system. 5.2 The FME shall maintain up-to-date records of its The detail records of the training on FSC FM/COC 41
COC training and/or communications program, such certification requirements for TFDPCL staff as a list of trained employees, completed COC members and the third party are maintained at the trainings, the intended frequency of COC training (i.e. respective units. training plan), and related program materials (e.g., presentations, memos, contracts, employee handbooks, etc).
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TFDPCL Management Plan for Rubber Plantations
PART I
SUMMARY OF FACTS ON WHICH PROPOSALS ARE BASED
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CHAPTER I
THE TRACT DEALT WITH
1.1 Name and situation This management plan is for Tripura Forest Development and Plantation Corporation Limited (TFDPCL), a Government of Tripura undertaking registered on the 26th March 1976 under the Companies Act, 1956 with equity participation by the Ministry of Environment & Forests Government of India. The authorised share capital of the Corporation is Rs.10.00 crores and the capital subscribed till March 2013 is 919.94 lakhs, Rs.890.44 lakh by the Government of Tripura and Rs.29.50 lakh by the Central Government. The corporate headquarters of TFDPCL is at Agartala, capital of Tripura, a constituent state of the Republic of India. There are six divisions/estates under the corporation. Commercial rubber plantation available for management under TFDPCL as in the year 2012-13 is 7087 ha in addition to 2448 ha of rubber plantation for economic resettlement of poor families belonging to the Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes under different government plan schemes and special projects. TFDPCL in addition raised 64 ha of bamboo plantation till the year 2012-13. These properties excluding the corporate head quarters (HQ) and Divisional Office (DO) infrastructure are spread over 38 field stations or Rubber Plantation Centers (RPC) and under the jurisdiction of four plantation divisions, one Factory Division and an Industrial Estate spread over all the eight districts of Tripura. The territory of the state lies between the meridians of 220 56` to 240 and 32` North latitude and 900 and 09` to 920 and 20` East latitude. International border (856 kilometers) of Tripura with Bangladesh constitutes around 84% of the state boundary; and it shares a 53 kilometers common boundary with Assam and 109 kilometers with Mizoram in the east. The objects for which the company is established are given in Appendix – 1. Similarly, Year wise & Division wise area statement of rubber plantations of TFDPCL is given in Appendix – 2. The breakup of the plantations of TFDPCL is shown in table 1.1. Table 1.1: TFDPCL Plantation Area Sl. No. Plantation Types Area (ha) 1 Corporation rubber plantation 7087 2 Resettlement rubber plantation 2448 3 Bamboo plantation 64 Total plantations 9599
In addition TFDPCL has 10.36 ha under Indsutrail Estate at Anandnagar, 19.83 ha is under use for latex processing and storage facilties in RPCs, 3.2 Ha for latex centrifuging and ICNR factory at Takmacherra, and 1.2 ha of land in the Rubber Park at Bodhjungnagar near Agartala (on lease term
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for 30 years from the Department of Commerce & Industries, Government of Tripura against a deposit of Rs.3.00 lakh).
TFDPC Limited coordinates with forest department of Tripura in managing 580.88 ha of natural forest areas that include treegroves as well which are spread over its rubber plantation centres (RPC). TFDPCL, also, manages 15.02 ha of water bodies in the forest areas.
1.2 Primary objective with focus on social sector: The Corporation adopted rehabilitation of degraded forestland through commercial rubber plantation as its primary objective in Tripura along with sustainable rehabilitation of tribal shifting cultivators. The Corporation was the pioneer in developing successful models for permanent settlement of tribal shifting cultivators through rubber cultivation by providing each family one hectare of Rubber plantation. TFDPCL organized resettlement of more than 1133 scheduled tribe families and 70 scheduled caste families under different schemes and projects as an agency of the state government. TFDPCL is the single largest rubber plantation unit in India. It has been creating employment for around 3585 people directly and to an almost equal number indirectly thus contributing significantly in employment generation particularly in rural areas of the State.
1.3 Industrial application: The Corporation initiated diversification of activities in promotion and value addition to rubber latex, rubber wood and bamboo. The Corporation has a successfully running Latex Centrifuging Factory and Crepe Mill; a Rubber Timber Processing Unit; a unit for manufacture of Rubber Wood Furniture with modern tools and machineries; a factory for production of solid Rubber Wood Boards and a Bamboo Furniture Unit. A Door Manufacturing Unit in the Industrial Estate at Anandanagar and a TSR Factory for production of block rubber were the new additions in 2012. Table 1.2 Current Status of Industrial Units of TFDPCL Sl. No. Unit Year of commissioning 2. Timber treatment plant 1999 4. ‘Unokoti’ brand Crafts & Furniture Unit 2007 5. Tripura Rubber wood Factory 2008 6. Bamboo Furniture Unit 2008 7. ‘Pilak’ brand Door manufacturing Unit 2012 8. TSR Factory 2012
1.4 Maps GPS referenced maps for all the rubber plantations (TFDPCL as well as Resettlement), also showing the natural drains & other features are compiled in report form and are included as Part V A and Part V B respectively of this Management Plan.
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1.5 Administrative units of the state of Tripura wherein lies the TFDPCL Estate
The state till the recent reorganization had 4 districts - North Tripura, Dhalai, West Tripura and South Tripura. Following reorganization since the 21st January 2012, there are 8 districts now (Unakoti, North Tripura, Dhalai, Khowai, West Tripura, Sepahijala, Gomati and South Tripura) with 23 civil subdivisions and 45 rural development blocks. Territorial jurisdiction of the 4 District Forest Officers continues to correspond, however, to boundaries of the 4 erstwhile revenue districts. (Figures 1.1 & 1.2)
1.6 Autonomous District Council
The Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council administered in accordance with the 6th schedule of the Constitution of India covers 68.10% of the geographical area of the state; and it is home to around one third of its population.
Figure 1.1 Index map of India showing location of Tripura
Source: Tripurainfo.com
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Figure. 1.2 District Map of Tripura
Not to scale Prior to reorganization After reorganization Source: Tripurainfo.com and Government of Tripra
1.7 Configuration of the ground 1.7.1 Physiographic zones: There are three distinct physiographic zones in the state: (i) hill ranges, (ii) undulating plateau land and (iii) low-lying alluvial land. 1.7.2 Hill ranges: Five principal hill ranges traverse the state running parallel to one another in north-south direction separated by narrow valleys (known locally as lunga) around 20 km wide. The eastern most hill range is Jampui followed successively to the west by Unakoti- Sakhantang, Longothorai, Atharamura-Kalajhari and Baramura-Deotamura. Betling sib, the highest peak at 939 meters above MSL lies in the Jampui Hill range. 1.7.3 Undulating plateau land: This zone marks the western limits of the hilly region, gradually rising from west to east with elevation ranging from 15 m to 75 m and merging with the eastern hilly tract. This zone is marked by medium and narrow valleys, streams and gullies. 1.7.4 Low-lying alluvial land: Low lands interspersed with hillocks and swamps with elevation restricted within 15 m above MSL. 1.8 Land classification: According to classification of terrain, the land of this State is divided into 5 major groups as below:
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Table 1.3: Land classification according to terrain in Tripura Area (sq. % of geog. Category km) Area 1 High Area 4000 38% 2 Upland (Tilla) land with moderate steep slopes 1600 15% Upland (Tilla) land with gentle to moderate 3 700 6.7% slope 4 Rolling Topography 2149 20.5% 5 Plain land 2042 19.8% Total Geographical Area : 10491 100% Source: Agriculture Department, Govt. of Tripura, http://www.agritripura.in/Agriculture/Pages/classi.htm) visited on 13/08/12
1.9 Geology, rock and soil
1.9.1 The study of rocks of Tripura dates back to 1908 when H.C. Dasgupta first classified the folded sedimentary rocks into 'coal measures' and ' Tripura Groups'. The rocks encountered in Tripura state range in age from lower Tertiary (40 million years old) to Recent (less than 1 million years old).
The sedimentary rocks of Tripura can be divided into 'Formations', 'sub-Groups' and 'Group' on the basis of their lithological composition, depositional characteristic and structural features.
Table 1.4: Particulars of rock formations in Tripura Group Sub-Group Formation Rock type Recent Recent Unconsolidated silt, and clay with (Unconformity) decomposed vegetable matter and gravels
Dupi Tila Dupi Tila Sandy clays, clayey sandstone, (Unconformity) ferruginous sandstone with pockets of plastic clay, silica and laterite. Tipam Tipam Champaknagar Sandstone, occasional sandy shale & abundant lumps of fossil wood Manu Bazar Sandstone with laminated layers and lenses of sandy shale, siltstone and mudstone. Surma (Contact Thinly bedded repetition of sandstone, transitional) siltstone/shale, mudstone and ferruginous Boka Bill sandstone. Bhuban Hard compact sandstone, olive shale, sandy shale and siltstone repetitions Source http://www.webindia123.com/tripura/land/geology.htm visited on 13/08/12
1.9.2 Soil, origin and texture
Soils in Tripura, originating from mudstones, sand stones and shales are very deep, well-drained, acidic and grouped broadly into reddish brown sandy soil, red loam, sandy loam and alluvial.
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1.9.3 Soils of uplands
The uplands are markedly undulating, rolling and broken in form. Upland soils developed mainly from sand stone are mostly sandy loam to loamy sand. Structure is granular and unstable. Organic matter content is low and the type of clay minerals are kaolinitic or illitic. Hence, cation exchange capacity, cohesion, expansion and plasticity are of very low order. Due to high rainfall, much of bases, namely Ca, Mg, etc. are leached down. The moisture retention is too low, unless sufficient quantity of organic matter is added to it. Due to low PH, activity of Fe and Al is very high and hence fixation of iron is also high. High concentration of iron leads to iron toxicity in certain pockets. Also the soils are deficient in some of the essential micronutrients.
1.9.4 Soil fertility
The pH values of Tripura Soils vary from 4.05 to 6.05 and in more than 90 percent of the soils of Tripura pH is below 5.6. On an average 52.1 percent of soils are medium, 22.5 percent soils are low and 25.4% soils are high in organic carbon content. About 60.5 percent of soils are deficient in phosphorous, 26.9 percent soils are medium and 12.6 percent are high in available phosphorous content. Low availability of phosphorous is related to strongly acidic soil condition. As a whole 67.3 percent of the soils in the state are low, 24.7 percent soils are medium and 8 percent soils are high in available potash content. Shifting cultivation prevalent in the region is responsible for removal of most fertile top soils from hill slopes. High rainfall in this region causes considerable depletion of soil organic matter, exchangeable calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium in case of the upland soils and these nutrients normally accumulate in the soils of narrow valley lands (lunga).
1.9.5 Erosion
The project area, being uplands with light soil virtually without any surface stone, is vulnerable to erosion. Sheet and rill erosions are common during rains in hill slopes with sparse tree cover. Erosion is high in areas under shifting cultivation and areas otherwise cleared of vegetative cover. Wind erosion is insignificant, as strong winds coincide with humid conditions.
1.9.6 Physicochemical characteristic of uplands (tilla)
Table 1.5: Physicochemical characteristics of upland soils in Tripura
Sl. No. Soil characteristics Value 1. pH 4.80 - 5.70 49
2. Organic carbon (%) 0.12 -1.37 3. Sand (%) 45.06 - 69.60 4. Silt (%) 14.30 - 20.10 5. Clay (%) 16.40 -28.40 6. C.E.C. (me%) 7.25 -11.60 7. Exchangeable Ca (me%) 1.25 - 4.25 8. Exchangeable Mg (me%) 0.50 - 2.00 9. Exchangeable Na (me%) 0.07- 0.16 10. Exchangeable K (me%) 0.06 - 0.19 Source: Source: Agriculture Department, Government of 11. Exchangeable acidity (me%) 0.40 - 2.00 Tripura , http://www.agritripura.in/Agriculture/Pages/physi.htm visited on 14/08/12
1.10 Climate and rainfall
Generally moist and humid, the state enjoys a typical monsoon climate with 4 distinct seasons: (i) Winter (December-February) (ii) Pre-monsoon (March-April) (iii) Monsoon (May–September) and (iv) Post Monsoon (October-November). The monsoon lasts for about 5 months from May to September and is the longest season of the State. Annual rainfall in the State varies between 2250 mm to 2500 mm. The minimum and maximum temperatures during winter range from 4oC to 33oC and during summer from 21oC and 38oC. The Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) places Tripura in the Agro climatic zone of Humid Eastern Himalayan Region.
1.11 Water supply
There are 11 major rivers and numerous hill streams (known locally as Chherra) in the state. The rivers and streams are rain-fed and mostly ephemeral. The rivers overflow resulting in floods during rains. Many of the rivers and streams including the river Haora, the major source of water for the capital town of Agartala, run practically dry during summer; and the habitations in the hilly regions suffer the most from water scarcity. The situation has been worsening over time largely due to deforestation and degradation of hills and uplands. The maps compiled in Part VI of this Management Plan show the locations & names of natural drains in the vicinity of the TFDPCL managed plantations.
1.12 Distribution and area The Government of Tripura (GoT) entered into an agreement with TFDPCL on the 16th February 1981 to transfer 5200 ha of forest land free of encumbrances suitable for rubber, citronella and bamboo plantations on a long term lease of 42 years. In addition 418.16 ha of existing rubber plantations and 55.40 bamboo plantation, 7.2 ha of citronella plantation was also transferred to the TFDPCL by the forest department. The MoEF vide letter No. 8-6/92- FC dated 23rd December 1997 conveyed approval under Section-2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for use of 1500 ha
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of forestland in the first phase out of 9019.52 ha for the purpose of rubber plantation in Tripura to resettle the tribal shifting cultivators subject to a set of terms and conditions. In the second phase the MoEF vide letter F.No. 8-6/92-FC dated 11th June, 2005 conveyed approval for use of 3873.786 ha of forestland along the Indo-Bangladesh International Border for raising rubber plantation. Against the second phase permission of 3873.768 ha of forestland for rubber plantations, the State Forest Department handed over 2374.62 ha to TFDPCL. 1.13 State of boundaries The industrial unit at Anandanagar, Agartala has boundary walls and security fencing. Work for boundary demarcation of RPCs with RCC pillars and barbed wire fencing of RPCs is in progress; and the Division wise progress till 2011-12 is shown below. Table 1.7: Boundary demarcation and fencing of the project area till 2013-14 Division No.of Demarcation by RCC pillars (no. of centres) centres Completed (in mtr.) Proposed of ( in mtr.) up to 31/03/2014 2014-15 & 2015-16 1 2 3 4 Northern Div. 11 8096 110536 Sadar Div. 8 1500 49135 Southern I Div. 13 13979 146723 Southern II Div. 4 4450 17030 Factory Div.* 2 11906.1 6508 Industrial Estate Div. 1 0 0 Total 39 399311.1 329932
*Excluding the Latex Processing Factory at Takmacherra. 1.14 Legal position The forest land used by TFDPCL for commercial plantation and related activities is on long term lease from the State Forest Department and the land in Bodhjungnagar Rubber Park is on long term lease from the Department of Commerce & industries, Government of Tripura. 1.15 Rights and concessions There are no legally recognised rights or concessions for local community or others in Reserved Forest except the right of way through public roads running through such forest. There is no Government notification recognizing rights or concessions for local community or others in un-classed Government Forest either. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 enforced in Tripura with effect from the 2nd October 1973 is applicable all over the state including the project area for the management plan under TFDPCL.
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PART I
SUMMARY OF FACTS ON WHICH PROPOSALS ARE BASED
CHAPTER II
THE RESOURCE BASE
2. Plantation resources
2.1 Names of plantation species under the management plan
TFDPCL is managing rubber plantations since its inception in 1976 with the species, Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex A. Juss.) Müll. Arg. Since 2011 it has also undertaken plantations of bamboo like Rupai Bash (Dendrocalamus longispathus), Paora (Bambusa polymorpha), Kanak kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri) and Muli (Melocanna baccifera) considering their potential for value addition and industrial applications. There will be several other tree species in windbreaks or shelter belts for rubber plantations with additional attributes of soil and moisture conservation; soil enrichment and enhancement of biodiversity compatible with the objectives of the Management Plan. Particulars of such associate tree species are listed below.
Table 2.1: Associate tree and bamboo species for shelter belt for rubber plantations Common Scientific name Attributes name Jackfruit/ Artocarpus Deep rooted heavy foliage. Excellent timber. Fruits & seeds Kathal heterophyllus edible. Leaves make cattle fodder. Grown extensively in homestead lands except water logged areas. Suitable for uplands. Provides food and nutritional security to rural households. Chamol Artocarpus A tall deciduous tree reaching a height of 30-40 m. Dense chaplasa foliage and large crown. Edible fruits. Good timber quality. Mritinga Bambusa tulda Causes significant reduction of wind velocity. Impedes soil Bamboo erosion; augments nutrient cycling and sustains production system of the main crop when introduced in strip cropping. Common uses: Handicrafts and Incense (Agarbatti) sticks. Barak Bambusa balcooa Causes significant reduction of wind velocity. Obstructs and Bamboo reduces run off. Common uses: Structural bamboo. Makal Bambusa pallid Causes significant reduction of wind velocity. Obstructs and Bamboo reduces run off. Common uses: Handicraft and fencing.
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2.2 Rubber tree
Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex A. Juss.) Müll. Arg., a native of the rain forests in the Amazon basin of South America, is the major source of natural rubber in the world. It belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. Hevea brasiliensis, also known as the Para rubber tree after the Brazilian port of Para, is a fast growing, fairly sturdy, perennial tree of a height of 25 to 30 m. It has a straight trunk and thick, somewhat soft, light brownish gray bark. The young plant shows a characteristic growth pattern of alternating periods of rapid elongation and consolidated development. Leaves are trifoliate with long stalks. The tree is deciduous in habit and winters from December to February in India. Refoliation is quick and copious followed by flowering. Flowers are small but appearing in large clusters. Fruits are three lobed, each holding three seeds, quite like castor seeds in appearance but much larger in size. The seeds are oil bearing. The rubber tree may live for a hundred years or even more. But its economic life is around 32 years including 7 years of immature phase.
2.2.1 Rubber latex
Indigenous rainforest dwellers of South America have been using the latex from the rubber tree for generations, but its potential as a valued raw material for the industrial world was recognized first in 1839 when Charles Goodyear accidentally dropped rubber and sulfur on a hot stovetop, causing it to char like leather yet remain plastic and elastic. Vulcanisation, a refined version of this process, transformed the white sap from the bark of the Hevea tree into a strategic raw material for the industrial age.
2.2.2 Distribution
Native of the Amazon Basin, Hevea brasiliensis was introduced to tropical Asia through Kew Garden in UK in 1876 with seeds from Brazil. The species is now cultivated for natural rubber of commerce in the tropical regions of Asia, Africa and America. China grows rubber in Hainan, Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian Provinces under a monsoon climate. Rubber has been predominantly cultivated in two major types of tropical climates:
0 0 a. Equatorial monsoon climate: The region between 10 North and 10 South latitude comprising most of the Indonesian archipelago, Malaysia, southern parts of Sri Lanka and some other islands b. Dry and wet monsoon climate: The Indian Subcontinent, Northern Sri Lanka, coastal Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippine archipelago and Southeastern Indonesia.
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2.2.3 Rubber in India
European planters introduced commercial cultivation of rubber in 1902 at Thattakad in the erstwhile Travancore State. It has been traditionally cultivated since then largely in Kerala and Kanyakumari District of Tamilnadu, which receive abundant precipitation from both the southwest and northeast monsoons. Non-traditional areas found suitable for rubber cultivation, despite varying degrees of limitations, are the hinterland of coastal Karnataka, Goa, Konkan region of Maharashtra, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Orissa; Siliguri area of West Bengal and the low elevation regions of the Northeastern states excluding Sikkim. Out of 686515 ha of rubber plantation in the country, Kerala alone accounts for 525408 ha (Rubber Board, 2012) or 89.67%.
2.2.4 Rubber in Tripura
Rubber, now the most sought after plantation species in Tripura, was raised for the first time as a plantation crop in a degraded forestland under a soil conservation scheme in 1963 by the Forest Department, Government of Tripura. The first rubber plantations were raised in Paticherry (now under factory division of KFDPCL). The Soil Conservation Department of undivided Assam had also raised rubber plantations in few locations near about that time, but it was in Tripura that its enormous potential was promptly realised and pursued. Rubber continued to grow happily despite harsh winter, protracted dry season and strong seasonal winds and cyclones in Tripura. Rubber, a tree species of the rain forests, demonstrated its adaptability to a wide range of agro climatic conditions, albeit with varying degrees of adverse impact on growth and yield; and it was proved by the healthy crop of the pioneering rubber plantation in Tripura. Promising performance of rubber in Tripura seized soon enough the attention of the Rubber Board, which opened in 1967 its first office in the northeast at Agartala for extension and training. TFDPCL adopted rehabilitation of degraded forestland through rubber plantation as a principal strategy and took up simultaneously a project to wean away a cluster of tribal families at Warangbari village of West Tripura from shifting cultivation by providing wage employment through rubber plantation. Implementation of economic rubber plantation based resettlement schemes sponsored by the state government for scheduled tribe, scheduled caste and other marginalized households through rubber plantation constitutes an important activity of TFDPCL. Tripura is the second largest rubber growing state in the country with the recorded area of 55415 ha (Rubber Board, 2012) against 141562 ha for the entire Non-Traditional Region in India as indicated in para 2.2.3.
Some important features of TFDPCL plantations are as under –
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1. The rubber plantations created by TFDPCL comprise only about 1.51% of the total forest area of the state (9535 Ha of rubber plantations compared to the total forest area of 6,29,268 Ha in the state). 2. Similarly, the rubber plantations created by TFDPCL comprise only about 10.59% of the total forest area of the state (9535 Ha of rubber plantations compared to the estimated total rubber plantations of about 90,000 Ha in the state). 3. The TFDPCL created rubber plantations are widely distributed al over the state & not concentrated in any one part of the state. Thus, diluting its environmental & social impacts. 4. Only, very degraded forest areas were utilized for creation of rubber plantations.
2.2.5 Soil type
Soil in the rubber tract consists mostly of laterite, lateritic types. Sedimentary types and nonlateritic red and alluvial soils are also seen in some non-traditional areas. The laterite and lateritic soils are mostly very porous, well drained, moderately to highly acidic, deficient in available phosphorus and varying in potassium and magnesium content. Red soil found in some areas is characterized by reddish to brown colour and fine loamy texture. This soil is generally acidic and highly deficient in available phosphorus.
2.2.6 Soil Depth
Soil for rubber cultivation should have a minimum depth of one metre without any intervening hardpan or impenetrable layer. Water table should also be well below one metre so that at least one metre of soil with good aeration, essential for root penetration is available.
2.2.7 Drainage
Well-drained soil is essential for optimum growth and yield of rubber plants. In marshy areas owing to poor physical properties and water logged conditions growth of rubber is always found to be poor.
2.2.8 Agro climatic requirements for rubber
Humid tropical climate prevails in the rubber-growing tract as indicated in para 2.2.3. Average annual rainfall in the tract varies from about 1922-2855 mm. The southern parts of the tract enjoy southwest and northeast monsoons almost equally while the northern areas receive mostly the southwest monsoon. From south to north the drought period extends from two to five months in a year and the distribution of rainfall becomes more uneven. However, variation in temperature and humidity in the rubber tract is not so marked as that of the rainfall. The temperature remains very warm and humidity very high during major part of the year. Rubber should be grown in gently 56
undulating topography with slope between 5 to 15 degrees. Climatic conditions for optimum growth of rubber tree are shown below.
Rainfall of 2000 to 3000 mm evenly distributed without any marked dry season and with 125 to 150 rainy days per annum Maximum temperature of about 29oC to 34oC and minimum of about 20oC or more with a monthly mean of 25 to 28oC High atmospheric humidity of the order of 80% Bright sunshine 2000 h per annum at the rate of 6 h per day all through the 12 months Absence of strong winds
Majority of the rubber growing regions in India do not meet these requirements; but rubber trees adapted well and have been successfully grown on commercial basis despite moderate variations from the optimum levels in climatic conditions as demonstrated by the spread in para 2.2.3.
2.2.9 Clones
The planting materials approved by the Rubber Board are classified into three categories.
Category I comprises of materials approved for large scale planting.
Category II comprises clones, which have shown their merit in performance in India over long term or medium term periods.
Category III planting materials are divided into (a), (b), (c) and (d). Materials under division (a) are those which have held out promise of good performance in small-scale trials, and over short term in some large scale trials in India or abroad. Hence these are approved only for experimental planting. Those under division (b) are old selections having promising localised performance or having desirable secondary attributes. In regions where these clones are showing very good performance, no restriction in planting is insisted. Modern clones with moderate scale performance are included in division (c). Other experimental clones of promising yield and/or desirable secondary characters with limited data are included in division (d). Selections from any of these are recommended for very small scale planting not exceeding 15 per cent of the total area.
2.2.10 Clones under different categories 57
Clones under the three categories as indicated in para 2.2.9 recommended by the Rubber Board for the Traditional region and the North Eastern Region are shown in table 2.2.
Table 2.2: Multiclone planting recommendations by the Rubber Board
Traditional Region Category Clones/seeds Category I RRII 105, PB 260, RRII 414 and RRII 430, RRII 417 and RRII 422 Category II RRIM 600, GT 1, RRII 5, PB 28/59, PB 217, RRII 255, RRII 203, PB 280, PB 312 and PB 314 Category III RRII 50, RRII 51, RRII 52, RRII 118, RRII 176, RRII 208, RRII 300, RRII 429, PR 107, PR 255, PR 261, PB 86, PB 5/51, PB 235, PB 311, PB 330, RRIM 605, RRIM 701, RRIM 703, RRIM 712, RRIC 100, RRIC 102, RRIC 130, KRS 163, IRCA 111, IRCA 130, SCATC 88-13, SCATC 93-114, Haiken 1, BPM 24 and Polyclonal seeds North Eastern Region Category Clones/seeds Category I RRIM 600 Category II RRII 105, GT1, PB 235, RRII 203, RRII 208, RRII 417, RRII 422, RRII 429 and RRII 430 Category III RRII 5, RRII 118, PB 260, PB 310, PB 311, RRIM 703, SCATC 88/13, SCATC 93/114 and Haiken I and Polyclonal seeds
Table 2.3: Acronyms/abbreviations and corresponding full names of clones of Rubber in Table 2.4
Acronym Full name GT Gondan Tapeng, Indonesia IRCA Institute de Recherches sur le Cautchouc, Ivory Coast KRS Kohong Rubber Estate, Thailand PB Prang Besar, Malaysia PR Profestation voor Rubber, Indonesia RRII Rubber Research Institute of India RRIM Rubber Reseaerch Institute of Malaysia SCATC South China Academy of Tropical Crops
2.3 Bamboo
2.3.1 General Bamboos, locally known as Bash, are tall, perennial, arborescent grasses belonging to the Gramineae (Poaceae) family represented world over by about 90 genera with over 1200 species. They may be deciduous or evergreen depending on the moisture regime of the locality. Asia contributes 65 % of the world bamboo resources followed by 28% in America and 7 % in Africa. In Asia, the major bamboo producing countries are India and China followed by Indonesia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Bamboos form rich belts of vegetation in the well-drained
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parts of the monsoon region. They are characterized by woody stems, commonly called culms, which arise from woody rhizomes. The number of culms produced annually is highly variable. Growth in bamboo is very rapid; and 0.3 to 0.6 m in a single day is common while growth up to 0.9 m in one day has been recorded (Indian Forest Utlisation Vol. II, 1972). India accounts for roughly half the total area of bamboo reported for Asia and, together with China, approximately 70 percent. India is the second richest country in bamboo genetic resources after China. 136 species of bamboos have been reported in India; and of them 58 species of belonging to 10 genera are distributed in the northeastern region. Out of the 22 genera in India, 19 are indigenous and 3 exotic. 2.3.2 Bamboo in Tripura Bamboos are the principal minor forest products of Tripura spread over about 2397 square kilometers covering 23% of the geographical area of the state. Pure bamboo brakes occur over 1350 square km and the area of bamboo mixed with other miscellaneous tree species is 1350 square km. Bamboo is cultivated in private holdings over an area of 109 square km. There are 7 naturally growing and 15 cultivated species of bamboo in Tripura. Muli Bash (Melocanna baccifera), a naturally growing bamboo constitutes 80% of the bamboo resource of Tripura; and the major species cultivated in private holdings are Bari Bash (Bambusa vulgaris), Barak Bash (Bambusa balcooa), Rupai Bash (Dendrocalamus longispathus) and Kanak Kaich Bash (Thyrsostachys oliveri). Average productivity of bamboo in Tripura is 0.73 MT per ha per annum as in 2007 compared to the All India average of 0.51 MT per ha per annum and 3.97 MT per ha in China. Names of naturally grown and cultivated species of bamboos in Tripura are shown below. (Adapted from ‘Bio-Diversity Resource Book of Tripura’, Sharma, 2010 and ‘Non-Timber Forest Products of Tripura Volume I’, Sharma, 2009 and FAO website (ftp://ftp.fao.org/docrep/fao/010/a1243e/a1243e03.pdf and http://www.fao.org/docrep/007/ad871e/ad871e10.htm visited on November 4, 2012).
Table 2.4: Bamboos grown in Tripura Naturally growing species Cultivated species i/c exotics recently introduced Sl. Name Sl. Name No. No. 1 Muli Bash (Melocanna 1 Barak Bash (Bambusa balcooa) baccifera) 2 Mritinga Bash (Bambusa 2 Bari/Jai Bash (Bambusa vulgaris) tulda) 3 Rupai Bash 3 Paora (Bambusa polymorpha) (Dendrocalamus longispathus) 4 Dolu Bash (Schizostachyum 4 Makal Bash (Bambusa pallida) dullooa)
5 Pecha Bash 5 Kanak kaich Bash (Thyrsostachys oliveri) (Dendrocalamus hamiltonii)
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6 Kailyai Bash (Gigantochloa 6 Lanthi Bash (Dendrocalamus strictus). andamanica) Recent introduction. 7 Sairil/Wadu Bash 7 Kai Bash (Bambusa nutans) (Melocalamus compactiflorus) 8 Kanta Bash (Bambusa bambos). Recently introduced.
9 Bom or Bethua Bash (Bambusa cacharensis) 10 Tetua Bash (Bambusa jaintiana) 11 Kanta Barak Bash (Bambusa salarkhanii) 12 Bambusa multiplex 13 Tiger or Golden bamboo (Bamboosa striata). Recent introduction.
14 Asper bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper). 15 Buddha Belly bamboo (Bambusa ventricosa)
2.3.3 Commercially significant species of bamboo
The National Mission on Bamboo Applications, a Technology Mission of the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India carried out extensive testing and an assessment of inherent characteristics of Indian species of bamboo. The results were matched with existing and potential uses of bamboo. Based on that exercise, and taking into account availability and dispersal of bamboo species, the Mission evolved a recommendation for focus on 16 commercially significant species and of them 9 are either naturally grown or cultivated in Tripura. Particulars are given below.
Table 2.5: Commercially significant bamboo species available in Tripura Naturally gown Cultivated Name Particulars Name Particulars including use in Tripura Muli Found chiefly in NE. Major spp. Barak Prefers heavy textured soil with (Meloc in Tripura. Grows best on low (Bambusa good drainage. A common anna hills & undulating terrain. Uses: balcooa) homestead bamboo in NE. Used as baccife Housing, roofing, mats; fencing, a structural bamboo in house ra) incense sticks; main source of construction and particularly for paper pulp. Edible shoots. It is scaffolding and ladders. Edible highly valued for stabilization shoots. of barren hill slopes and as for being the best species for the livelihoods of rural people of Tripura, the tribal in particular. 2009 technical report from Bamboo Engineering Research Centre (BERC), Nanjing Forestry University confirmed very good test results to 60
TFDPCL on suitability of Muli bamboo for engineered panels and boards. Mriting Thrives along water courses in Bari/Jai Prefers moist soil. Occurs in natural a NE hills and West Bengal. Used (Bambusa forests in Central India and in NE. (Bambu for housing, furniture, basketry, vulgaris) Used for construction work, sa handicrafts, woven applications furniture & handicrafts. tulda) and incense sticks. Paora Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained (Bambusa loam and alluvial soil. Common in polymorpha) Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Tripura. Also in other parts of NE. Has a high demand for handicrafts, toys, basketry and also for house construction, incense sticks, etc. Makal Grows best in high rainfall and (Bambusa humid climate with moderately high pallida) temperature. Naturally found and cultivated in the NE. Used for making baskets, mats, handicrafts, fencing and construction works. Kanak kaich Introduced in Tripura. Suited for (Thyrsostachys sport goods because of its oliveri) dimensions, solid nature, flexibility and other mechanical properties. Uses: Fishing rods, javelins, pole vault poles and high-end furniture. Lanthi bans Found normally at altitudes up to (Dendrocalamus 1000 m in dry, open deciduous strictus). forests. Widely distributed and most common bamboo in India. Used as building material and for furniture and implements. Kanta Barak Attains the best growth in moist (Bambusa deciduous forests up to an altitude salarkhanii; of 1000 m. Prefers rich and moist Syn. B soil, and thrives near perennial bambos) rivers and valleys. Found almost throughout India, and is common in Central and South India. Used as a structural bamboo for construction of houses, etc.
2.3.4 Kanak kaich Bamboo
2.3.4.1 Brief description: Kanak kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri Gamble) is a densely tufted elegant arborescent bamboo with thin, delicate leaves. Culms 5 to 20 m tall, bright green with whitish silky down when young, dull green or yellowish when old; nodes hardly prominent, slightly oblique, lower covered with rootlets; internodes 10-60 x 5 cm, wall very thick at the base; branches fascicled at the nodes, ascending below, almost horizontal above. Culm sheaths thin, fibrous, closely imbriating the base of the culms, longer than the internodes in the lower half, shorter 61
above, greenish-purple or reddish-green when young, turning pale orange and finally turning light brown or dull creamy-white with advancement of age, clothed on the back with thick, short, white stiff pubescence, ciliate on the margins in the upper half, somewhat rounded at the apex, then truncate to a breadth of 2.5-2.75 x 1.75 cm, with two small irregular auricles. Leaves 17.5-20 x 1.25-1.75 cm, light green, linear-lanceolate, acuminate, rounded at the base into a short petiole, somewhat rough on the sides, hairy beneath, margins scabrous. Inflorescence large compound curved thyrsoid panicle bearing bracts at the nodes, with usually one long and two short florets bearing spikelets and one or more sterile ones (Naithani, 2010).
2.3.4.2 Habitat
It occurs in well drained grounds in the mixed forest of Myanmar, often in association with teak, padauk (Troup, 1921).
2.3.4.3 Distribution
Native of Mayanmar, cultivated in Assam, Tripura, Dehradun, Calcutta, Chessa in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Haldwani in Uttarakhand, Chandigarh, Punjab, Palghat, Nilambur, Wynad in Ketrala and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Yunan Province of China and Thailand. (Forest Department, Manipur, 2010). People migrating from erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, introduced Kanak kaich in Tripura. Large-scale plantations of Thyrsostachys oliveri have been raised on the north west part of Sadar (Agartala) Sub-Division; and its propagation in other suitable locations began only recently.
2.3.5 Muli Bamboo
2.3.5.1 Brief description: Melocanna baccifera (Roxb. Kurz. locally known as ‘Muli Bash’ in Tripura is an evergreen unarmed arborescent bamboo. Unlike the other bamboos in Tripura which are closely clumped, Muli culms are diffused. It is typically gregarious, and spreads by its long vigorous rhizomes. Culms arise singly from ramifying rhizomes. Culms 10 to 20 m tall with the diameter ranging from 1.7 to 7.5 cm depending on the age, green when young, straw coloured when old, very fine silvery bristles present in some young culms, unbranched till near the top; nodes marked with a thin ring; internodes 30-50 x 1.5 – 7.5 cm at base, wall 5-7 mm thick. Culm sheaths 12.5-15 x 15-30 cm, broader, brittle, striate, covered with whitish hairs; straight about two third of the way up, then once or twice waved, ultimately cut off straight or concavely below the imperfect blade, the edges produced upwards into rounded, often long-fringed auricles; imperfect blade up to 30 x 2.5 cm, recurved, suulate-acuminate, the base decurrent in to a narrow strip along
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the top of the sheath. Leaves 14-28 x 3-5 cm, lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate, with a long, scabrous, twisted point, rounded at the base into 1.25 cm long petiole, glabrous above, glaucescent beneath and hairy when young, scabrous on the margins. Inflorescence large, compound panicle of one sided, drooping, spicate branches bearing clusters of 2-3 spikelets in the axis of short, blunt, glaborous, bracts. Caryopsis large, 7.5-12.5 cm long and 5-7.5 cm broad, obliquely ovoid, fleshy, beak curved; pericarp thick, fleshy. Seven or eight fruits of Melocanna baccifera weigh one pound (Dent, 1946).
2.3.5.2 Habitat
Muli bash occurs on dry sandy slopes of hills; and occupies extensive areas affected by shifting cultivation in the hills in Tripura.
2.3.5.3 Distribution
West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura in India. Bangladesh and Myanmar. Cultivated in Dehradun, Karnataka, Calcutta, Singapore, Guatemala, Florida, Jamaica and China. Muli Bash is found all over the state and it constitutes 80% of the bamboo resources of the state.
2.3.5.4 Phenology
This bamboo flowers gregariously. Kurz (1976) and Stapf (1904) mentioned its flowering gap between 30-35 years. While Varmah and Bahadur (1980) indicated the gap as 30-45 years. According to official records there was gregarious flowering of this bamboo during 1911-12, 1958- 59 and lastly in 2002-03 to 2007-08 in Tripura.
2.4 Injuries to which the crop is liable
Various injuries to which a rubber and bamboo plantation are due and the management strategy to deal with them are discussed below.
2.4.1 Weeds and climbers
Invasion by weeds begin right from the time the existing jungle growth or vegetation is cleared as a preparation for planting rubber. Being a predominantly warm territory with high rainfall weed growth is rapid and aggressive. Several species of weeds and climbers invade plantation sites; and the most damaging amongst them in Tripura is Mikania micrantha H.B.K that spreads very fast
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when the canopy is open during creation of new plantations. Weeds can be controlled either by manual methods or with the use of chemicals known as herbicides or by an integrated method involving both the methods. Considering the need for eco-friendly applications to meet the requirements of FSC certification chemical herbicides will not be used; and this plan recommends use mechanical weed cutters that can be operated by a single person to reduce cost of weeding wherever feasible. In case of rubber plantation leguminous cover crops like Pueraria phaseoloides or Mucuna bracteata shall be sown and established to enhance site productivity and to control weed growth simultaneously. Manual weeding involves slashing, scraping, uprooting that expose soils to erosion which can be minimized by mulching following each round of weeding.
2.4.2 Storms and cyclones
Storms and cyclones are common during late March to mid April in Tripura; and these have become more severe in recent times causing significant damage to rubber plantations, both juvenile and mature. Impact of storms and cyclones on bamboo, naturally grown and plantations, are generally insignificant. Establishment of wind breaks or shelterbelts for rubber plantations are, therefore essential. Creation of windbreaks or shelterbelts has not so far been considered as an integral component of rubber plantations in Tripura. However, experience with rubber plantations wherever shelter belts had been created e.g. with Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam) other species like Australian Acacia (Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth) demonstrated their effectiveness in substantially minimising damage to rubber plantations from strong winds and cyclones. Wind breaks dampen wind speeds by 50 percent and lessen the impact of cyclones significantly. Wind-resistant trees used for shelterbelts for rubber plantations in Tripura include Acacia auriculiformis, Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam) and different species of bamboo. In case of rubber plantation there is provision for insurance cover for which the Rubber Board takes master policies with M/s National Insurance Company Ltd. (NIC) on behalf of rubber growers against damage from storms and cyclones, fire, landslide, etc. No such cover is available for bamboo plantations or regeneration areas.
2.4.3 Fire
There is always the risk of fire both in rubber and bamboo plantations during the long dry summer months preceding monsoon in Tripura. Shifting cultivation in forestland scattered all over the state coincides with this period; and this is one of the main causes of forest fire in Tripura. Fire lines are created on the boundaries of plantations and estates and those are kept clean of fallen leaves and twigs during the fire season. Fire watchers are engazed in more vulnerable areas during the dry summer days; and as such incidents of fire damage in plantations under TFDPCL are uncommon; 64
but keeping in view the high value of plantation crops and their vulnerability, it is important and essential to organize preventive actions as aforesaid and to insure rubber plantions as per the Rubber Borad scheme.
2.4.4 Grazing and browsing
There were designated pastures or grazing lands in the erstwhile princely state of Tripura that merged with the Union of India in 1949. There are no pastures in Tripura now as a result of diversion of such lands for other uses. Livestock Census 2007 records the population of cattle as 451009 excluding 31900 of crossed cattle. The goat population is another 645614. Stall feeding, if at all, is practised only for high yielding crossed cattle. Almost the entire lot of 11 lakh of indigenous cattle and goats are let loose in the tiny state of 10491 square km to graze on browse in roadsides and other public lands; agriculture, horticulture and forest areas. Effective protection against cattle trespass is, therefore, of paramount importance compared to the situation in the rest of the non-traditional rubber growing areas in India. Barbed wire fencing for new creations of plantations is essential till permanent cattle and goat proof fencing or boundary walls, already in progress, are in place for a given Plantation Centre.
2.4.5 Soil erosion
The project area under this management plan is predominantly hills and undulating rolling uplands. Soils are light in texture, mostly sandy loam to loamy sand and the structure is granular and unstable with low organic matter content. Soils in the project area are generally susceptible to sheet erosion on clearance. Rubber plantations are shallow rooted and are vulnerable to land slips if the slope is more than 30%, and the steeper the slope more vulnerable is the plantation. Appropriate interventions are, therefore, necessary to check soil erosion and land slips in case of rubber. The soil on the hill side is cut from a distance of 60-75 cm in front of the planting row and thrown back in such a way that the terraces so formed will have a width of 1.25 to 1.5 m and an inward drop of 20-30 cm. Steps of uncut earth are left out at intervals along the terraces to check lateral flow of water. Silt pits or trenches of about 120 cm length, 45 cm width and 60 cm depth are dug along the contour at suitable intervals to check erosion and to conserve water. Pits can be taken at the rate of 150-250 per ha depending on the degree of slope. They are aligned in such a way that the pits in the adjacent inter-rows are in a staggered manner. However, opening of such pits is not recommended in slopes steeper than 20 %.
2.4.6 Diseases and pests
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2.4.6.1 Rubber Plantations
Crops losses resulting from ravages of disease causing agencies in rubber plantations can be substantial, but plantations in the North East are less affected by these maladies. It is, however, necessary to be on the guard. The major diseases and pests of rubber along with control measures as advised by the Rubber Board are furnished below.
Disease and causal Occurrence, symptoms and clonal Control measures agent susceptibility Abnormal leaf fall Occurrence: Annual recurrence during Prophylactic spraying of the foliage Phytophthora southwest monsoon period. Prolonged prior to the onset of south west monsoon palmivora Butl. P. wet weather coupled with humid with (1) Bordeaux mixture using high meadii McRae. & atmospheric conditions favour the volume sprayers or (2) Oil-based copper P.nicotianae var disease. Disease incidence is less in oxychloride dispersed in diluent spray parasitica and P. Kanyakumari District, but increasingly oil employing either low volume airblast botryosa (Chee) heavy northwards along the sprayers from the ground or through southwestern coast. aerial application. For micron spraying, Symptoms: First the fruits rot, later based on the tree spread, foliage infected leaves fall in large numbers intensity, planting material used and age prematurely, either green or after of plants, two rounds of spray using turning coppery red. A black lesion about 17 to 22 litres of fungicide oil may develop on the petiole with a drop mixture per hectare per round (1:6 of latex, often coagulated, in the centre. proportion) with a gap of 10 to 15 days Lesion may develop on the midrib and or a single round of spray with about 30- leaf blades also. Heavy defoliation may 40 litres of fungicide oil mixture per lead to considerable loss of crop and hectare (1:5 proportion) may be die-back of terminal twigs. necessary. For aerial spraying 6.2 litres Clonal Susceptibility: Clones like PB of 40% oil based copper oxychloride 86, PB 235, PB 260, PB 311, PB 28/59, paste in 37 litres of diluent oil or 8 kg RRIM 600, RRIM 628, RRIM 703, oil dispersible copper oxychloride RRII 5, PR 255, PR 261 and Tjir 1 are powder 56% in 40 litres of oil is used susceptible to the disease. RRII 105, PB per hectare. Spraying should be done as 217, GT 1 and GL 1 are clones showing close to the monsoon as possible. some tolerant reaction to the disease.
Shoot rot Occurrence: Noticed during south west Prophylactic spraying as above for Phytophthora monsoon period. Common during mature plants. For young plants in the palmivora (Butl.) Butl heavy rainfall periods. nursery as well as in the field, spraying and P.meadii Mc Rae Symptoms: The tender green shoots with copper fungicides before the onset rot. More damaging for nursery of south west monsoon coupled with seedlings and the young plants in the repeated spray rounds during bright field. breaks protect the plants. Phosphorus Clonal Susceptibility: Clones, which acid 0.16% (Akomin and Phosjet 4 are susceptible to abnormal leaf fall ml/L) and metalaxyl Mz 0.2% (Ridomil disease are severely affected by this Mz 2.77 g/L) are aslo effective. For disease. ensuring proper sticking of the spray on tender foliage sticker (Sandovit, Tenac, Teepol, Triton AE etc) may be added at the rate of 0.5 ml/litre of spray fluid. Powdery Mildew Occurrence: Predominantly noticed on Dusting during the refoliation period Oidium heveae newly formed tender flush during the commencing from bud break in about Steinm. refoliation period of January to March. 10% of the trees, giving 3 to 5 rounds at The disease is severe in Kanyakumari, weekly to fortnightly interval using 11 Idukki and Wynad district of South to 14 kg 325-mesh fine sulphur dust per India and North Eastern States. Cloudy round per hectare. Sulphur mixed with 66
days with light rains and/or misty an inert material like Talc (70:30) is nights with dew formation during commonly used. Wettable sulphur ( refoliation favour serious disease Carbendazim 2.5 g /l) is also effective in outbreaks. nurseries and for young plants as a Symptoms: Tender leaves with ashy spray. Bavistin 0.05% a.i. (Bavistin 1g coating curl, crinkle, and edges roll in 1 litre water) spraying is more inwards and fall, leaving the petioles effective than sulphur for nurseries and attached to the twigs like a broom- young rubber. Alternate use of Bavistin stick. After a few days, the petioles and sulphur is recommended to avoid also fall. Die-back of twigs follows. resistance problem. For efficiency, On older leaves white patches later dusting may be carried out in the early causing necrotic spots reduce morning hours when the leaves are photosynthetic efficiency. Infected moist and the atmosphere calm. Power flowers and tender fruits are shed, dusters like Skoda Micro spray power affecting seed production. 400 or Aspee Turblow tree duster could Clonal Susceptibility: Clones PB 86, be used for sulphur dusting. GT 1, GL1, PR 107, PB 5/139, RRIM 703, RRII 208 and PB 310 show some tolerance. The clones RRII 105, RRII 118, RRII 300, PB 217, PB 235, PB 280, PB 311, PB 5/51, RRIM 605 Tjir 1 and PR 261 are susceptible to the disease. Colletotrichum Leaf Occurrence: Observed during April to Spraying with Bordeaux mixture 1%, Disease October. In North East India the disease copper oxychloride 0.125% (Fytdan 2.5 Colletotrichum is prevalent throughout the year except g/l) mancozeb 0.2% (Dithane/ Indofil M acutatum during winter. 45 2.66 g/l) or carbendazim 0.05% C.gloeosporioides Symptoms: Infects tender leaves, (Bavastin 1 g/l) at 10 - 15 days intervals (Penz.)Sacc. mostly at the leaf tip region. Spots are is effective. small, brown in colour and are surrounded by an yellow hallo. Numerous spots coalesce and dry up leading to defoliation. The infected leaves often crinkle and become distorted before shedding. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones like PB 86, RRII 300, RRII 105, RRII 118, RRII 208 and RRII 5 are susceptible to the disease. PB 217, PB 260 and RRIM 600 are the clones showing some tolerance. The clones RRII 105, RRII 118, RRII 300, PB 217, PB 235, PB 280, PB 311, PB 5/51, RRIM 605 Tjir 1 and PR 261 are susceptible to the disease. Bird's Eye Spot Occurrence: A hot weather disease Repeated spraying with Bordeaux Drechslera heveae serious and damaging in the nursery. mixture 1% or mancozeb 0.2%( (Petch) M.B. Ellis Weaker plants and plants growing Mancozeb/ Indefil M 45 2.5 g/l or under exposed situations are more Carbendazim 0.02% (Bavistin 0.4 ml/ susceptible. l). Shading the nursery plants reduces Symptoms: Symptoms appear as small the disease incidence. Maintain necrotic spots with dark/brown margins seedlings in vigorous condition through and pale centre. Severe infection leads adequate balanced nutrition. to premature defoliation and die back. Clonal Susceptibility: Nursery seedlings are susceptible Leaf Spot Occurrence: Earlier the disease was Repeated spraying with Bordeaux Corynespora confined to nurseries only. From 1996 mixture 1% or Dithane (Indofil) M-45 cassiicola (Berk & onwards severe incidence of the disease 0.2% or Bavistin 0.02% is 67
Curt) was observed in mature plantations in recommended for nursery. Shading the the Dakshin Kannnada District of nursery reduces the disease incidence. Karnataka State and in the adjoining Maintain seedlings in vigorous districts of Kerala. In nurseries, disease condition through adequate balanced incidence is noticed during November nutrition. High volume spraying with to May period. On mature trees, disease mancozeb 0.2% (Dithane/Indofil M-45 is observed during the refoliation period 2.66 g/l) carbendazim 0.05% (Bavistin from Feb. to May. 1g/l) at 2-3 weeks interval during Symptoms: Large spots, with brown refoliation is effective in mature margins and pale centre is the common plantation. Micron spraying with oil symptom. The centre may fall off dispersible copper oxychloride 56% forming shot holes. On mature trees (8kg) or oil dispersible mancozeb 70% light green leaves during refoliation are (7 kg) dispersed in 40 l spray oil per ha more susceptible. Several lesions is also effective. coalesce to form large blighted area. Disease spreads along the veins leading to a brownish “railway track” or "fish bone" like appearance. Even a localised infection on midrib or base of a leaf causes leaf abscission. Defoliation leads to die-back of branches. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones like RRII 105, RRII 118, RRII 300, RRII 305, PR 107, PR 255, PR 262, RRIM 600, PB 86, PB 235, PB 255, PB 260, PB 311, GL 1 and Tjir 1 are susceptible to the disease. Pink Disease Occurrence: The disease is noticed Prophylactic: Prophylactic treatment Corticium during southwest monsoon period in the for pink disease can be done for highly salmonicolor Berk & traditional rubber growing areas in susceptible clones planted in highly Br. South India. The disease incidence is disease prone areas. Two rounds of very mild in Kanyakumari District due spraying with 1% Bordeaux mixture to the weak southwest monsoon and (during May and August) on to the fork absence of prolonged wet conditions. and branches reduces disease incidence. Disease has been noticed in Assam, For 2-year-old plants, the topmost Tripura and Meghalaya in north east. brown portion has to be applied with Symptoms: More damaging for plants Bordeaux paste in a 30 cm wide band all in the age group of 2 to 12 years. around. The forking region also has to Main seat of infection is usually the be applied with the paste. In leaning fork region. White or pink coloured plants in addition a 30 cm wide band on cobweb mycelial growth on the bark the convex side of the bend has to be surface with streaks of latex oozing out applied. In 3 years old plants, from the lesions. Rotting, drying up application has to be made on all major and cracking of the affected bark forking regions except the lowermost follow. Sprouts develop from below the one and also on all the leaders of the affected portion. The distal portion of topmost brown regions. Only one branches dry and dried leaves stick to application is required. No scraping is the dead branches. necessary. The application can be made Clonal Susceptibility: Clones PB 217, from ground using a long handled-brush PB 311 and RRII 105 are highly before the onset of monsoon. During susceptible. High incidence has been October, a single tracing and treatment also noticed in clones like Tjir 1, BD need be made for infection, if any. No 10, RRIM 501, RRIM 701, RRIM 707, sticker should be added to the paste. and PB 28/59 etc. Clones like PB 86, Curative: Frequent tree inspection RRIM 513, GL 1, PR 107, GT 1 and during June to October for detecting PB 260 are less susceptible. infection and application of Bordeaux paste in early stage on infected part and up to 30 cm above and below. In advanced cases, Bordeaux paste may be 68
initially applied and then the affected portion scraped to remove mycelium and decayed bark, followed by a second Bordeaux paste application. Dried branches should be pruned after disinfection. Thiram 0.75% thiride (TMTD) (10g in 1 kg) incorporated in a wound dressing compound or tridemorph 2% (Calixin 25 ml/l) in 1% ammoniated field latex or thiride 0.75% or tridemorph 1% or propiconazole 0.1% (Tilt 4 ml/l) in pidyvyl, china clay and water (1:2:4 by volume) is also effective as rain-wash is prevented. Patch Canker or Occurrence: Infection mostly during The affected region may be scraped to Bark Canker the wet weather. remove all the rotting bark and the Phytophthora Symptoms: On the tapping panel coagulated rubber and the wound palmivora, region, or anywhere on the stem washed well with mancozeb 0.75% Phytophthora meadii, including the collar region and (Dithane/ Indofil M-45 10 g/l). When Pythium vexans occasionally on the roots. Swelling and the fungicide dries up, apply would bark burst with amber-coloured liquid dressing compound. oozing out. This may not be evident in all cases. In most cases oozing of latex is observed. The bark rots, and a coagulated rubber pad, emanating a foul smell is seen in between the wood and the rotting bark. When this is removed slight discolouration of the wood in this region is also noticed. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones susceptible to abnormal leaf fall disease are also susceptible to this disease. The clone PB 260 is highly susceptible to this disease Black Stripe, Black Occurrence: Prevalent during the rainy If tapping is regularly done during rainy Thread or Black Rot season. season, the tapping panel should be Phytophthora Symptoms: In the renewed bark disinfected at weekly intervals by palmivora, P. meadii region, small depressions are formed brushing with mancozeb 0.375% a.i due to localised rotting and drying of (Dithane/ Indofil M-45 5 g/l). bark, which gets pressed to the wood. Phosphorous acid formulations at 0.08% When scraped, deep vertical black lines ( Akomin and Phosjet 2 ml/l) are also running downward into the tapping effective. In the infected cases, scrape bark and upwards into the renewed bark off the affected tissues and apply the are noticed. Bark rot often reduces fungicide. When the fungicide dries up, yield. The renewed bark becomes a wound dressing compound may be highly uneven. applied. Clonal Susceptibility: No distinct tolerance/resistance is noticed in any of the popular clones. Disease incidence is severe in clones like RRIM 600, PB 235, PB 311 and PB 28/59. Dry Rot, Stump Rot Occurrence: Infection during the wet Scrape off the fructifications, affected Collar Rot or weather. bark and wood showing black lines. Charcoal Rot Symptoms: Affects roots, collar, trunk Apply a wound dressing compound in Ustulina deusta and branches with copious exudation of which Thirum 0.75% a.i (Thiride 10 (Hoffm.ex Fr) Lind. latex from the lesions. Affected bark g/l) incorporated. Hexaconazole 0.02% and wood become soft and powdery a.i (Contaf 4 ml/l) is also effective. with double black lines in the wood. Avoid accumulation of rubber at the 69
Grey, crust-like flat fructifications, base of the tree. For root infection see which later coalesce and turn black the treatment for brown root disease. seen on the bark. Affected trees or branches are killed or blown over. Ustulina root infections are also noticed. Clonal Susceptibility: Disease is noticed in clones RRII 105 and RRIM 600. Brown Root Disease Occurrence: The disease occurrence is Open up the root system. Completely Phellinus noxius sporadic and often noticed in replanted killed and dried roots may be traced, Corner G.H. Cunn areas and in sandy or light soils. Low pruned off and burnt along with any incidence of brown root disease is rotting stump in the immediate vicinity noticed in Assam and Tripura. and partially affected and healthy roots Symptoms: Retardation in growth and washed with tridemorph 0.5% a general yellowish discolouration of (Calixin 6.25 ml/l) or propiconazole the foliage. Affected roots when 0.13% (Tilt 5 ml/l) solution (Provisional examined show a thick encrustation of recommendation). When the fungicide soil, sand and fungal hyphae cemented dries up, a thin coating with a wound to the root and brown lines in the dressing compound may be given. affected roots. In advanced cases the Refill the soil and drench the base with plants dry up. Infection is noticed on fungicide solution. The dried up plants young nursery plants also. may be uprooted, root traced, collected and destroyed. As prophylactic, measure the bases of trees neighbouring the affected trees may also be drenched with fungicide solution mentioned above. Drench the nursery beds having affected plants with any of the above mentioned fungicide solution. Poria Root Disease Occurrence: Sporadic Open up the root system. Completely Poria vincta (Berk.) Symptoms: Yellow discolouration of killed and dried roots may be traced, Cooke leaves is the only external symptom. pruned off and burnt along with any The affected root shows soil rotting stump in the immediate vicinity encrustation as in the case of brown and partially affected and healthy roots root disease but to a limited extent. washed with tridemorph 0.5% (Calixin Around the root fungus forms a 6.25 ml) propiconazole 0.13% (Tilt 5 complete mat, pale white in colour ml/l) solution (Provisional intermingled with brick-red and black recommendation). When the fungicide tinges. dried up, a thin coating with a wound dressing compound may be given. Refill the soil and drench the base with fungicide solution. The dried up plants may be uprooted, root traced, collected and destroyed. As prophylactic, measure the bases of trees neighbouring the affected trees may also be drenched with any of the above mentioned fungicide solution. Drench the nursery beds having affected plants with any of the fungicide solution mentioned above. Scale Insect Occurrence: Seen generally in young Natural enemies like insect parasites and Saissetia nigra Nietn. plantations and nurseries in almost all entomogenous fungi keep this pest in rubber areas. check. When severe infestation is Symptoms: Small insects with an outer noted, spray Organophosphorus black, dome-shaped covering. Occur insecticides like Malathion at 0.05% on leaflets petioles and tender shoot concentration. portions and suck the sap, severely affected portions dry up and die. Ants 70
and sooty mould are associated with this. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones RRII 105 and RRIM 600 are affected
Mealy Bug Occurrence: Seen mostly in nurseries Spray Organophosphorus insecticides Ferrisiana virgata in all rubber areas like malathion 0.1% (2 ml/l) or Ckll Symptoms: Soft bodied small insects quinalphos 0.075% (Ekalux 25EC3 with white mealy outer covering. ml/L) Occurrence and damage similar to scale insects. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones RRII 105 and RRIM 600 are affected Termite (White Ant) Occurrence: Dry regions of Central Drench the soil at the base of affected Odontotermes obesus Kerala (Thrissur & Palakkad) and non- plants with Chlorpyriphos 0.1% Rambur traditional areas like Dapchari in solution. When mulch is present spray Orissa. the mulch also. (Provisional Symptoms: Feeds on the dead bark of recommendation) trees and young plants. Builds covered passageways of soil on the tapping panel and collection cup. Sometimes young plants dry up due to attack. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones PB 86, Tjir 1and RRII 105 are affected Cockchafer Grub Occurrence: More prevalent near Incorporate 25 kg per hectare of Phorate Holotrichia Serrata F. forest areas and in loose soils. 10G in the soil at the time of bed H.rufoflava Brenske, Symptoms: Feeds on the roots of preparation Anomala varians Ol. seedlings in the nursery and young plants. The affected plants droop and fall over. Clonal Susceptibility: Not specific Bark Feeding Occurrence: Nagercoil, Nedumangad, When the infestation is severe apply Caterpillar Punalur, and Thrissur localities. Sevin 5% at the rate of 10 kg per hectare Aetherastis circulata Symptoms: The caterpillars build or Fenval 0.4% dust at the rate of 7 kg Meyr. Ptochoryctis galleries with faecal matter and silk all per hectare (provisional rosaria Meyr over the trunk region and branches of recommendation) with a power duster. trees. Generally feed on dead bark and Spraying the trunk with fenvalerate occasionally on live bark causing 0.02% (Tatafen 20 EC, Arfen 20 EC 1 exudation of latex. Deep scar found at ml/L) is also effective. the regions of feeding. Clonal Susceptibility: PB 86, PB 235 and PB 311 are highly susceptible clones. Mites Occurrence: Sporadic incidence on Dust sulphur or spray sulphur 0.2% Hemitarsonemus young rubber plants in nurseries. (Sulfex 80 WP 2.5g/L) or dicofol 0.05% dorsalis Symptoms: Not a serious pest. Minute (Kelthane 18 EC 3ml/L) organisms with four pairs of legs. Suck sap from the leaves resulting in crinkling and shedding. Clonal Susceptibility: Clones like PB 217, RRII 105 and RRIM 600 are susceptible. Slug and Snail Occurrence: Distributed randomly in Broadcast 2.5% Metaldehyde bait Mariaellae dussumieri rubber areas in Kanjirappally, Thrissur pellets (snail kill 2.5) at the base of the Grey, Crytozona and Calicut infested plants or seedling beds. To (Xestina) bistralis Symptoms: Feed on latex by lacerating repel slugs and snails brush Bordeaux Beck the tender leaves and buds. Growth of Paste 10% around the stem above the affected buds is arrested and side shoots bud union to a length of 30 cm. Repeat develop giving a bunchy appearance. the application after 30-45 days if the 71
Slugs drink latex from the tapping cut attack continues. and collecting cup also. Clonal Susceptibility: Nursery seedlings are more susceptible. Rat Occurrence: Almost all rubber Distribute baits of poisons of Zinc Bandicota indica Bech areas. phosphide with an attractive food like Bandicota bengalensis Symptoms: Feeds on kernels of seeds tapioca pieces or bait cakes of these Gray, Rattus meltada sown in germination bed. In young poisons prepared with wax in different Gray plants they gnaw the roots and the regions of the affected areas. plants dry up. Bromodiolone 0.005% a.i. bait is also Clonal Susceptibility: Nursery plants found to be very effective. The single are more susceptible. dose anticoagulant need be fed by the rats, only once. Porcupines and Wild Occurrence: Near forest areas. Scaring away or repelling with electric Pigs Symptoms: Pull out young plants and fencing. Hystrix indica Kerr feed on the tap root. Debark basal portions of young plants and trees. Clonal Susceptibility: Not specific
2.4.6.2 Bamboo Plantations
Tropical bamboos are less susceptible to pests or diseases compared to most other tropical plants; and incidents of pests and disease particularly the four target species under this management plan - Dendrocalamus longispathus, Bambusa polymorpha, Thyrsostachys oliveri and Melocanna baccifera - are practically free from such maladies in Tripura. However, TFDPCL will maintain links with the Forest Research Division of the State Forest Department and Forest Research Institute of GoI in order to ensure appropriate and prompt intervention if any incidents of pest infestation or disease is noticed.
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PART I
CHAPTER-III
UTILISATION OF FOREST & PLANTATION ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Introduction: The four categories of ecosystem services from forest that contribute to human well-being can be described as under - Provisioning services – e.g. wild foods, crops, fresh water & plant derived medicines; Regulating services – e.g. filtration of pollutants by wetlands, climate regulation through carbon storage & water cycling, pollination, soil & water conservation & protection from disasters; Cultural Services – e.g. recreation, spiritual & aesthetic values, education; Supporting services – e.g. soil formation, photosynthesis & nutrient cycling.
All attepts shall be made to ensure continued availability of all these ecosystem services of forests & plantations for its stakeholders. “Low Impact” shall be the general management principle in the management of forests & plantations.
TFDPCL envisages identifying various environmental services such as ecotourism, recreation; spiritual, cultural & aesthetic and educational activities to enhance the forest ecosystem services uses for income generation for both TFDPCL and the local people (and will be included in MGMT PLAN I Chapter III).
3.1 AGRICULTURAL CUSTOMS AND NEEDS OF THE POPULATION
3.1.1 POPULATION
Tripura is the second most populous state in North-East India after Assam. According to the provisional figures of Census 2011 the total population of Tripura is 3,671,032 (2001: 3,199,203) with 1,871,867 males (2001: 1,642,225) and 1,77,165 females (2001:1,556,978). The density of
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population is 350 persons per sq. km (2001: 305). The erstwhile district wise distribution of population is given below:
Table 3.1 District wise distribution of population as per 2011 Census (provisional) District* Headquarters Population (2011) Area (km²) Density (per km²)
Dhalai Ambassa 377,988 2,523 157
North Tripura Kailasahar 693,281 2,821 341
South Tripura Udaipur 875,144 2,152 286
West Tripura Agartala 1,724,619 2,997 576 *Erstwhile Districts prior to reorganization since 21st January 2012
3.1.2 Composition of population
The sex ratio of the state is 961 females for thousand males (2001: 948). Tripura constitutes 0.3% of the total population of India. As per the 2001 Census of India, tribal groups represent 30% of the population of Tripura. The tribal population comprises of 19 tribes and ethnic groups with diverse languages and cultures, the largest being Tripuri (16% of the state's population). The decadal growth rate of population in Tripura during 1991 to 2001 was 16.03 as against 14.75 during 2001 to 2011.
3.1.3 Literacy
The literacy rate of Tripura rose from 73.19 % to 87.75% in 2011 which was higher than the national average of 74.04%. Importantly, female literacy rose by 18.14 points (64.91 to 83.15) as against 11.18 (81.0 to 92.18) points for males compared to the position as per 2001 census.
3.1.4 Landless households
In absence of official statistics, an extract from the article, “Land reclaim dispute over drying dam” by Sri Subir Bhaumik in BBC News updated 3rd April 2007 is reproduced: ‘Tripura has nearly 25,000 landless tribal families….’ (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/6509771.stm visited on 14/08/12)
3.1.5 Agriculture & plantation crops
The economy of the state is primarily agrarian. Agriculture contributes about 64% of total employment in the state and about 48% of the State Domestic Product (SDP). A variety of horticultural and plantation crops are grown in Tripura and the important amongst them are Pineapple, Orange, Cashew nut, Jackfruit, Coconut, Tea and Rubber. The Rubber Board provides a massive plantation subsidy of Rs.30,000/- per ha for the northeast region. Rubber has
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now attained the status of the most important plantation crop in Tripura both due to its commercial success and its innovative application for economic rehabilitation of shifting cultivators and other poor tribal families, which delivered a degree of success hitherto not experienced in any rehabilitation package on un-arable uplands in the state.
3.1.6 Animal husbandry, fisheries & forestry
The present level of production in animal husbandry and fisheries is far below the demand in the state and there is need and scope for considerable improvement. Forests are under tremendous stress due to lack of arable land for alternative livelihood in the predominantly hilly state and lack of employment opportunities worsened by the massive influx of refugees from erstwhile East Bengal (now Bangladesh). Action initiated in Tripura since early 1990s to involve forest communities as partners in management of government forests with provision for usufructs created a positive impact. This approach in management holds the key to effective conservation and prudent utilisation of government forests near villages for sustainable flow of goods and services to people in general and forest fringe dwellers in particular.
3.1.7 Industry
The Industry Sector has not grown to its potential due to geographical isolation following the partition of the country; and lack of general infrastructure particularly weak and deficient transport and communication links with mainland India. A thermal power station with a combined capacity of 42 MW is already operational in Baramura hills and another 750 MW gas based project at Palatana near Udaipur is scheduled to commence generation in the near future; and this along with anticipated access to and through Bangladesh should improve the overall industrial environment in the state to a great extent. Thus with the progressive policy making and focus on infrastructure development the growth path is now on track and thus the state seems to be on high growth trajectory. The most important minerals in the state are mineral oil and natural gas; which offer opportunities for industrial growth and future boost to the state economy. Besides, there is already enough production of natural rubber in the state for large-scale industrial production of bicycle and rickshaw tyres locally. Eco-tourism showcasing the rich bio-diversity of the state; its archaeological-cum-religious destinations like Unokoti Tirth, Pilak, et al and ethnic culture of its numerous tribes offer opportunities for promoting tourism as a viable industry in the state.
3.1.8 Shifting cultivation (Jhum)
A significantly large population of rural tribes in Tripura still practises shifting cultivation, despite sharply declining yields, impacting on the life andwell being of both shifting cultivators and the 75
rest of the population. Rubber plantations have played significant role in changing the jhumia practices to settled life through enhanced income. As evident from the study that the number of households dependent on jhum cultivation reached a peak at 55,000 in 1987 and then a decline started and came down to minimum at 27263 households in 2007 (Source: http://www.agritripura.in/Agriculture/Pages/jhum.htm, visited on 14/08/12).
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3.1.9 RUBBER WOOD
3.1.9.1 General
Forest has traditionally been the primary source of wood for human civilization. With the demand rising with growing population and the need on the other hand to conserve forests under heightened stress on ecological considerations, alternatives like metals, plastics and composites with improved strength and working properties were developed. But none of those had the feel of wood. This led to the utilisation of several secondary tree species including rubber wood. Hevea brasiliensis, the primary source of natural rubber is grown in about 9 million hectares in the tropical regions of Asia, Africa and America. At the age of 22 to 29 years, latex production becomes uneconomic and the trees are harvested into cut timber and the area is replanted. As wood production is the secondary purpose, Rubber wood is viewed as a recycled wood.
In India rubber is predominantly a small holders’ crop and over 87% of the rubber production is from small holding. A rubber tree from small holdings will have about 0.57 m3 (20 CFT) of timber and the yield per ha is about 150 m3 (5295 CFT) depending upon soil factors, locality & climatic factors. The stem wood has timber value of only 60%. Present total availability of rubber wood is estimated as 0.94 million m3/yr. and it is estimated to be 1.5 m3/yr times by the end of the decade (the Rubber Board).The average volume of round timber per rubber tree received by TFDPCL for the period from May, 2012 to September 2012 was, however, is only 0.25 cum. The variation of latex yield & timber is due to seedling vis-à-vis clonal origin of seedlings.
3.1.9.2 Wood Properties – Sawing, Machining, Working and Finishing Properties
Rubber wood is a light hardwood. The wood is whitish yellow or pale cream when freshly cut and seasons to light straw or light brown. It is a moderately hard and ‘light to moderately heavy’ timber with density ranging from 435 to 626 kg/m3 at 12% moisture content. It is a diffuse porous wood with medium texture and straight grain. Sapwood and heartwood are not distinct. Dry rubber wood has better hardness than teak. Rubber wood is easy to work in sawing and machining. Clogging of saw with latex can easily be eliminated by dabbing of saw blade with fuel oil. For best results in sawing, narrow gauge saw blade with teeth having top clearance angle of 15o and front rake of 20o should be used. Short length of sawn planks can be overcome by finger jointing. Rubber wood has good machining and working qualities. It can be finished to a very glossy look on polishing and can be given ammonia fumigation cum bark extract -quenching treatment to obtain golden to dark brown hues and decorative figures. Rubber wood can be bent in steam or in ammonia to make curved items. It takes up stains well and being light in colour it can be stained to the shades of teak,
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rosewood, mahogany, beech, cherry etc. A comparison of rubber wood with teak as regards suitability parameters is shown below (Adapted from Rubber Board website: http://www.rubberboard.org.in/RubberWood.asp).
Table 3.2: Comparative suitability indices of rubber wood with respect of teak as 100 Sl. No. Property Index 1 Weight or heaviness 93 2 Retention of shape 77 3 Strength as a beam 62 4 Stiffness as a beam 77 5 Suitability as post 52 6 Shock resisting ability 75 7 Shear 92 8 Surface hardness 74 9 Splitting coefficient 75
Source: Adapted from Rubber Board website: http://www.rubberboard.org.in/RubberWood.asp
3.1.9.3 Harvest and Processing of Rubber Wood
3.1.9.3.1 General: Harvest and Processing of rubber wood essentially include selection of older plantations to be cleared for new planting, sawing, preservative treatment, seasoning and wood working operations. The trees are cut by sawing as close to the ground as possible to reduce wastage. The logs dispatched from the field should have length not less than 100 cm with girth 60 centimeters and above. Due to the absence of heart wood - the durable and usable part of the wood - rubber wood is susceptible to the attack of fungi and insects. Immediately after felling, to improve the durability of the wood, preservative treatment with suitable preservative chemical is carried out. It is important to say that preservative treatment is meant only for improving the durability. It does not change the anatomical structure, strength, shape or any other property of wood. The structure of the vessels in rubber wood permits easy and effective preservative treatment. Rubber wood belongs to the treatability class ‘b’ and durability class III. Rubber Wood belongs to refractoriness to seasoning class ‘B’ of IS: 1141-1993. Freshly cut, moisture content of the rubber wood is more than 60 %. For any use, the moisture content has to be reduced to the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and this is about 12%. This is for dimensional stability and for obtaining good machining and finishing properties. Rubber Wood contains tension wood and hence seasoning is carried out with utmost care at controlled conditions of temperature & humidity so that the drying takes place uniformly throughout the entire charge. The final moisture content will be 10%. The drying time is dependent on the timber thickness. Currently two types of seasoning techniques are employed; conventional kiln drying and vacuum drying. Kiln drying process is employed in AIE. Vacuum drying is a much faster process and the wood so seasoned has lesser defects and better colour. 78
3.1.9.3.2: Receipt and process of rubber wood logs in AIE: Rubber wood logs are received and accounted for separately for the Timber Treatment Plant (TTP) and the Tripura Rubber Wood Factory (TRWF), the products of which are Rough Sawn Kiln Dried Timber (RSKD) and Finger jointed edge glued solid rubber wood boards respectively. The details about the receipt and process of rubber wood logs for the two units are described below and the Activity Flow Chart of TRWF is at Appendix-3. a. TIMBER TREATMENT PLANT: Rubber Logs are received after confirmation with the approved tree felling schedule and the following checks on specification:
i. Length of log between 1m to 4m ii. Centre Girth of log not below 60cm iii. Tapping marks not more than 10% iv. Minimum knots & absence of branches v. Time gap between felling and delivery should be as less as possible but upto 36 hrs is preferable.
Logs with the above quality parameters and specifications only are measured and received, Stock entry of each log including volume as calculated is made in the LOG RECEIPT REGISTER on a daily basis. Log received are issued to supervisor for conversion in to sawn timber. Volume of converted timber is recorded in the LOG CONVERSION REGISTER on a daily basis by supervisor.
3.1.9.4 Preservative Requirement of Processed Rubber Wood a. General: The standard according to the Rubber Board website, Copper Sulphate, Potassium or Sodium Dichromate, Arsenic pentoxide (CCA) or Copper Sulphate, Potassium or Sodium Dichromate, Boric Acid (CCB) is suited for exterior use where as Boric acid and Borax Equivalent (Boric Acid) treatment is suitable only for interior use. Due to its high leachability boric acid retains the natural colour of the wood where as CCA gives an undesirable greenish yellow colour to the wood. The preservation is generally carried out by impregnation under pressure and vacuum in cylindrical chambers. In vacuum pressure process, the timber is subjected to an initial vacuum followed by pressure treatment and a final vacuum. In the oscillating pressure and vacuum method the cycle is repeated 10 to 15 times.
Table 3.3: Rubber Wood Treatment Parameters Sl. No. Service condition CCA / CCB Boric Acid: Borax Penetration 1 Interior protected from weather, painted 5 kg/m3 5 kg/m3 Throughout
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2 Interior intermittent wetting 8 kg/m3 ---- Throughout 3 Exposed to weather not in ground contact 12 kg/m3 ---- Throughout Source: Adapted from the Rubber Board website b. Preservative treatment practiced in AIE: The preservative treatment is carried out by impregnation under pressure and vacuum in cylindrical chambers. The preservative used in AIE is a solution of 1.5% Boric Acid, 2.25% Borax and 0.15% Sodium Pentachlorophenate. Sawn timber is first of all fed in to the treatment vessel and subjected to 400 mmHg of vacuum for 10 minutes to take out the excess air from the vessel. The vessel thereafter is filled with the preservative mix and subjected to a stable pressure of 8 kg per square mm for 2 ½ hours. Batch Number is provided for each consignment of treated timber. Periodic re-filling of chemicals is done to maintain the required concentration level and laboratory test of each batch is done to confirm absorption of chemeicals up to the appropriate level. The next process is seasoning of sawn timber. The treated sawn timber is stacked in the seasoning kiln and hot air is circulated through the stacks at controlled temperature depending upon the humidity for seasoning of sawn timber.
The product RSKD is ready thereafter for further use in AIE for making furnitur or other value added products like factory made doors.
c. TRIPURA RUBBER WOOD FACTORY (TRWF):- The same process for receipt of logs and process is followed in case of TRWF for obtaining seasoned sawn timber. The sawn timber, thereafter, is processed in finger joint line for production of finger jointed boards. The lamina so produced in the finger joint machine is composed in a composer with glue of the brand DORUS KL 4644 to produce 8ft x 4ft edge glued boards of thickness 12mm, 15mm, 18mm, 22mm, 25mm, 30mm and 35mm. The final product, Finger jointed solid wood boards, are then passed though the beam saw for trimming and through the wide belt sander for the finished product for sale as such or for further use in carpentry unit.
3.1.9.5 Forms of processed rubber wood produced in AIE
a. Rough Sawn Kiln Dried Timber (RSKD); width up to 150 mm. Thickness from 12 to 75 mm Length up to 2400 mm
b. Finger jointed edge glued solid rubber wood boards ;- Thickness 12mm, 15mm, 19mm, 22mm, 25mm, 30mm, 35 mm; Length 2400 mm. Width 1200 mm
3.1.9.6 Processed Rubber wood – Attributes
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Rubber wood is a versatile timber because of several favourable attributes as below
Light colour Attractive grain structure Good strength properties Good working, machining and finishing properties Good staining properties
3.1.9.7 Applications
3.1.9.7.1 General
Furniture and Cabinet Making: Furniture suitability coefficient for rubber wood is evaluated as 69. Hence rubber wood is classified and standardized as a Group III species in IS 13622:1993. (Indian timbers for furniture and cabinets-classification.)
Interiors: Paneling, mouldings, beadings, skirting, edging, parquet and strip flooring
Kitchen Wares, decorative and utility household items such as salad bowls, knife blocks, trays, magazine racks, etc.
Building Components: Rubber wood has been used for making doors, windows, steps, railings, balusters etc. Suitability coefficient of rubber wood for making door and window shutters and frames is evaluated as 77. Hence it has been included and classified as a Grade II timber in IS:12896-1990 (Indian timbers for door and window shutters and frames-classification) and in IS:1003-1991 (Timber paneled and glazed shutters-specification). CPWD has approved it as one of the species for government construction work. Rubber wood is suitable for structural purpose and is classified as Group C timber according to its modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity.
Flooring: Rubber wood has been successfully used for wooden flooring in offices, homes etc.
Packing Cases: Rubber wood is a widely used timber for making packing cases. It has a packing cases suitability figure of 89 and is classified as Grade II in IS: 6662-1993. (Timber species suitable for wooden packaging specification).
Wood Carvings: Rubber wood has been widely used for making carved, decorative and utility items like ornament boxes, utility boxes, lacquered items trays etc.
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Block Board and Flush Doors: Rubber wood has been widely used for making the core stock of the block board and flush doors after proper preservative treatment. This species has been included in Grade I (Species suitable for core) in IS: 2202(part)-1999 (Wooden flush door shutters (solid core type)-specifications.
Bent Wood Articles: Bending wood by employing ammonia plasticization technique for making bent wood articles like walking sticks, stairs, trays, peg tables etc is a very promising area for the better utilization of rubber wood. Rubber wood can also be used for making many suitable curved components for the production of furniture, doors and other fancy, ornamental and utility items.
3.1.9.7.2 Applications in AIE
The products from the Timber treatment plant and Tripura Rubber Wood Factory (TRWF) are used as raw material for manufacture of value added products in the Unokoti Crafts & Furniture Unit (UCFU), to which a Door Manufacturing Unit was added in 2012. The products developed are polished and varnished in the finishing line spray booth. Consumables used for manufacture of the value added products include Glue, Polyurethane, nails and other fittings depending on the product. The broad categories of value added products from UCFU are as below:
i. Standard Household furniture and furnishings ii. Standard Office furniture and furnishings iii. Standard School furniture iv. Customized furniture, furnishings
Similarly, the categories of Pilak Factorymade Rubberwood Doors are as under –
i. Skin doors ii. Compact rubberwood doors
Capacity: The capacity of the Timber treatment Plant is 50 cubic feet per shift or 15000 cubic feet or 428.6 cubic meters per annum on single shift; and that of TRWF is 40 boards in a single shift per day and 12000 boards per annum on a single shift basis. The capacity of the UCUF (including the Door Unit) depends on the size and nature of products. On an average the capacity per day of the unit is 50 chairs or 50 joint benches or 10 single cots or 5 double beds or 5 executive tables with an approximate sale value of Rs.1.00 lakh and 40 doors or windows with an approximate sale value of Rs. 3.2 lakhs. Thus, the estimated sale value of products from the UCUF running at full capacity in single shift is Rs.1260 lakhs. Consumables used for furniture making in UCFU include polyurethane amongst others. 82
3.1.10 Major Consumers – The major buyers of Unakoti Furniture & Pilak doors are as under .
Name of Esteemed Customers during 2013-14: TFDPC IE, Anandanagar.
Item Sl.No. Esteemed Customers Amount ( Rs.)
Rubber wood 1 Directorate of School Education, Tripura 87,01,696.00 made furnitures 2 National Institute of Technology, Agartala 27,17,226.00
3 Directorate of Higher Education, Tripura 20,47,009.00
4 Directorate of Panchayets, Tripura (For PRTIs) 17,50,648.00
5 Land port Authority at Akhaura, Agartala 13,25,000.00
1 BRTF, Salbagan 89,849.00
2 Dr. Debabrta Roy, Prtapgarh, Agartala 89,584.00
Door 3 Sri. Alok Deb, Mohanpur 58,496.00
4 Mr. Madan Das, Director, Board of Director, TFDPC Ltd. 47,891.00
5 Sri. Kanti Sen, Bank Chowmuhani, ONGC, Agartala 37,630.00
Name of Esteemed Customers during 2012-13: TFDPC IE, Anandanagar.
Item Sl.No. Esteemed Customers Amount ( Rs.)
Rubber wood 1 Directorate of School Education, Tripura 43,94,244.00 made furnitures 2 Directorate of Higher Education, Tripura 44,65,254.00
3 National Institute of Technology, Agartala 11,01,810.00
4 Rural Development Department, Tripura 8,50,000.00
5 Engineering Elements, Agartala 6,68,481.00
1 BRTF, Salbagan 60,596.00
2 Sri. Mrinal Dutta Majumder, Agartala 29,349.00
Door 3 Sri. Sanjib Dutta, Agartala 24,834.00
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4 Sri. Sourav Podder, Melarmath, Agartala 23,846.00
5 Sri. P. Sarker Benerjee, Indranagar, Agartala 7,457.00
3.1.11 BAMBOO
3.1.11.1 General: Bamboos are of enormous importance for the life and livelihood of rural people all over the tropical world; and are aptly called the poor man’s timber. Strength of culms, their straightness, smoothness and lightness, combined with hardness, their hollowness, that they are found in great abundance; the facility with which they can be split, and the range in size and in addition their relative abundance, easy propagation and the short period in which they attain maturity make them so popular and suitable for a wide variety of uses. Numerous articles of everyday use like tool handles, beds, sticks, tent poles, brushes, pipes, fans, toys, musical instruments, etc. are made of bamboo. They are also used for making containers, drinking vessels, fishing rods and fishing traps. Bamboo constitutes the chief raw material for making baskets and wicker-works, which is a cottage industry throughout India. Selected sticks of thin varieties of bamboo are converted into umbrella handles. Bamboo is used for agricultural implements, housing, fencing, scaffolding, ladders, incense sticks, umbrella handles, paper pulps, fuel, etc. Leaves are used as fodder for cattle and young shoots of several species, known locally as Banskorol, are used as a vegetable and are a favourite in particular amongst the tribal population. They are also grown for hedges and landscaping.
3.1.11.2 Utilisation of bamboo in Tripura: About 6.1 million man days per annum of employment is created in the bamboo sector in Tripura. Of the annual extraction of bamboo of about 184 million culms in 2001, only 110 million culms were against recorded removal. The utlisation wise breakup is shown below.
Table 3.8: Utlisation wise break up of total annual extraction bamboo in Tripura (2001) Number in millions, percentage (% of total number) Housing Paper mills Handicrafts Agricultural Others Total implements number No. % No. % No. % No. % No. % 135 73.4 16.5 9.0 3.2 1.7 1.5 0.8 28 15.2 184 (Adapted from Bio-Diversity Resource Book of Tripura, Sharma, 2010)
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3.1.11.3 Uses of commercially significant bamboo: Nine of the sixteen commercially significant bamboo species short listed by the National Mission on Bamboo Applications (NMBA) are available in Tripura. Use and habitat of these nine species have been briefly discussed in Table 1.5 under para 2.3.3 of Part I of this plan. Rupai bamboo (Dendrocalamus longispathus), one of the 4 species chosen for planting under this plan (para 3.4 of Part II) is not in the NMBA list; and hence follows a short note on its use and habitat.
3.1.11.4 Rupai (Dendrocalamus longispathus): This is a large caespitose bamboo with culms 20 m tall and diameter up to 10cm. It occurs in moist hill slopes and along streams. Used for thatching of house roofs; house posts, basketry, mat making, chicks for doors and windows; furniture, floats for wood logs in rafts. Culm sheaths are used for irrigation and musical instruments in some places. It is particularly suited for manufacture of kraft paper. It is also used for carrying water and milk. Its shoots are used as food.
3.1.11.5 Harvest and processing of bamboo
3.1.11.5.1 Time for harvest: Timing of harvest is particularly important in case of bamboo as the culms possess large amounts of starch which are the principal nutrients for parasites, borers and fungi. Bamboo culms will be more naturally resistant if harvested when the starch level is low. Starch content is lower during the rainy season (since new shoots consume the nutrients) but moisture content in the bamboo culms remains high, which increases the possibility of subsequent splitting and cracking after harvest. This is also the period when new shoots emerge and felling operations could damage or destroy the shoots. The best time to harvest bamboo is at the end of rainy season and the beginning of the dry season; that is November-November in Tripura. Felling of bamboo is usually not done during May to October.
3.1.11.5.2 Age of harvest: As regards the suitable age for harvest, it is important to note that sugar content in bamboos is lowest during the first year and highest between years 1 to 3. But, there is no justification for harvest immature bamboos before completion of the process of lignifications as otherwise they are less strong and usually collapse on drying. Bamboo is considered mature between 4 and 7 years, after which they slowly start to deteriorate. Muli culms are not harvested before they are 4 years old; but in case of Kanak Kaich harvest starts from the 3rd year depending on the targeted product for which the culm would be used. Mature bamboo culms are recognized by the formation of white spots on the culm and lichens at the nodes. If bamboo stems are covered with fungi and mosses in their entirety, and nodes appear whitish-gray or even dry, it is a sign that the culms are over-mature.
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3.1.11.5.3 Felling and handling: Bamboo is cut at the third inter node from the collar level, with a machete or a saw so that there may not be any receptacle in which rainwater may accumulate. Stagnant rainwater in culms may cause rot and could weaken the bamboo plant system. Care should be taken to avoid damage or exposure of rhizomes while harvesting as that affects the future health of the crop. Bamboo culms should not be dragged along the ground to prevent damage to the outer layer resulting in stains and blemishes. Bamboo culms should not be thrown on hard grounds to prevent cracks. Only healthy culms should be harvested as good products can be made only from good raw material. The lateral branches and the tops of felled culms are removed after harvest with the aid of sharp cutting tools. The culms thereafter are segregated into different girth/height classes suited to the end use wise requirement and tied up in bundles of 20 for dispatch to AIE.
3.1.11.5.4 Preservatives: While in external use as posts, fences, etc termites and fungi destroy bamboo in about one or two years. If treated with preservatives bamboo may last for 15 years. CCB (Copper sulphate, Sodium dichromate and Boric acid in 2:2:1) solution is generally used as a preservative. Bamboo furniture and other products for interior use are also susceptible to termite and fungal attack, and the details of preservative treatment followed at AIE for this purpose are described below.
3.1.11.5.5 Preservative Treatment practiced at AIE for Bamboo for indoor use
Indian standards IS 1920: 1993 is the Code of Practice for preservation of Bamboo and Cane for non-structural purposes. This standard prescribes types of preservatives, methods of treatment of bamboos & cane for both indoor & outdoor for non structural purposes. It also includes recommendations on the choice of treatment depending on the various uses to which the Bamboo and Cane are put.
The following Indian Standards are necessary adjutants to this standards:-
IS 401-1982: Code of Practice for treatment of Timber IS 218-1983: Specification of creosote and anthracene oil for use as wood preservatives. IS 9096:1979: Code practice for preservation of Bamboo for structural purpose.
The products of AIE are mainly furniture and handicrafts for indoor use. Thus preservatives used are water soluble (leachable type), being a mixture of Boric acid and Borax 2.25%. Boric Acid and Borax have been used successfully against lyctus borers, sap stains and some species of termites.
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As the chemicals chosen are of leachable type, the finished products are coated with water proof coating.
Usual method of treatment recommended for this purpose is through diffusion where the material needs to be kept submerged in the preservative solution for 10-15 days to attain absorption of preservatives at 4 Kg (dry salt)/m³. AIE uses the faster and more efficient method of chemical impregnation under pressure which requires only two hours to achieve the desired level of Chemical absorption.
3.1.11.6 Production of Bamboo furniture and other interior products
Owing to low shrinking factor, high strength per cross sectional area, easy to bend, ethnic look, light in weight etc makes bamboo an excellent material for furniture. Additionally though furniture making activity the artisan can get better earning opportunity by making high end value added products.
Considering the above potential, the Value addition Centre for Bamboo was establishment at the TFDPC Industrial Estate in 2009 with financial support from Tripura JICA project for sustainable income generation of rural people. The unit has been set up with Bamboo furniture making facility. the Bamboos are susceptible to microbial, termite & borer attack. In order to overcome these attacks and improve durability of Bamboo the prophylactic treatment is required. The TFDPCL Bamboo Manufacturing Unit accordingly has been equipped with such a treatment facility.
Commercial productions for following products have been targeted:-
1. Sofa Set 2. Dining Table and Chairs 3. Serving Trolley 4. Study Table & Chair 5. Podium 6. Partition/Room Divider 7. Garden Bench 8. Corner Stand 9. Mirror Stand 10. Rocking Chairs 11. Other Handicrafts item etc
Fig 3.1: Process Flow Chart for Furniture Making From Bamboo
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Chemical treatment & Bamboo seasoning
Straightening & Bending
Varnishing/ Assembling Joinery Cross Peeling Finishing cutting
3.2 MARKET AND MARKETABLE PRODUCTS
3.2.1 Production of processed rubber wood
The entire production of treated and processed rubber wood in Tripura comes from TFDPCL. Processed rubber sawn wood and finger jointed edge glued rubber wood boards are sold as such or after further value addition in Unakoti Crafts & Furniture Unit of TFDPCL in Anandanagar Industrial Estate (AIE). TFDPCL also supplies rubber wood and wood boards to two private entrepreneurial units functioning in a Public Private Partnership tie-up with TFDPCL from AIE for production and sale of rubber wood furniture and other utility and decorative products. Year wise production of treated sawn rubber wood and finger jointed edge glued rubber wood boards by TFDPCL is shown in table 3.5.
Table.3.5: Production of treated rubber sawn wood and processed rubber wood boards (cum) Year Wood logs Production of Sawn wood Production of wood received treated sawn used for boards wood boards Number Volume 1 2 3 4 5 6 1999-2000 397 159 0 0 0 2000-2001 241 81 0 0 0 2001-2002 29 10 0 0 0 2002-2003 282 104 0 0 0 2003-2004 235 122 0 0 0 2004-2005 322 118 0 0 0 2005-2006 639 240 0 0 0 2006-2007 868 356 0 0 0 88
2007-2008 915 379 0 0 0 2008-2009 2333 916 131 1209 86 2009-2010 2319 767 291 2359 167 2010-2011 2247 723 317 1981 168 2011-2012 1059 387 229 1883 160
3.2.2 Marketable products made of processed rubber wood
The categories of products created from sawn wood and boards under AIE are listed at para 3.1.9.7.2 above.
3.2.3 Market for rubber wood products
Major rubber producing countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia are quite advanced in rubber wood processing and value addition. As an eco-friendly timber, it is well accepted in the world market. In India, rubber wood processing for value addition started in the ’80s and it is still in its infancy, consuming only about 17% of the available stem wood. With a gap of about 11 million m3/ year between the supply and demand, the domestic market is also huge. India is yet to tap the export potential properly. India imports wood and wood products worth about Rs 9500 crores a year; and increased use of rubber wood will strengthen the country’s economy and reduce import dependence of wood. Development of the rubber wood processing industry in the country will generate employment, strengthen the national economy, improve financial returns from rubber cultivation and will contribute to conservation of forest and environment.
Practically the entire production of processed rubber wood and furniture, paneling and other utility products from processed rubber wood manufactured by TFDPCL and by the two entrepreneurial firms functioning from TFDPCL Industrial Estate at Anandanagar is absorbed by the local market. Production of value added products from processed rubber wood and sales there of year wise is shown in table 3.6.
Table.3.6: Production of value added products from processed rubber wood Year Vol. of processed rubber wood Value added products utilised cu.m No. of Sale proceeds units IRS Lakh Sawn wood Boards
2007-2008 323 0 7597 38.52 2008-2009 303 109 7547 63.64 2009-2010 411 631 12058 135.75 2010-2011 319 1730 14560 201.87 2011-2012 182 1068 11002 94.21
3.2.4 Export potential for rubber wood products
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Major rubber producing countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia are quite advanced in rubber wood processing and value addition. As an eco-friendly timber, it is well accepted in the world market. In India, rubber wood processing for value addition started in the ’80s and still it is in its infancy, consuming only about 17% of the available stem wood. With a gap of about 11 million m3/ year between the supply and demand, the domestic market is also huge. India is yet to tap the export potential properly. The country imports wood and wood products worth about Rs 500 crores a year. Hence for the country it is a foreign exchange saver and earner. Development of the rubber wood processing industry in the country will generate employment, strengthen the national economy, improve financial returns from rubber cultivation and will contribute to conservation of forest and environment.
3.2.5 Bamboo products
3.2.5.1 General: During the last few decades bamboo has developed as an exceptionally valuable and often superior substitute for wood. Bamboo-based panels and boards are hard and durable and may successfully substitute for hardwood products. Bamboo may replace wood in many industrial applications and thereby contribute to the saving and restoration of the world’s forests. Bamboo is a major construction material in many countries, particularly in rural areas. It can be used for almost all parts of houses, including posts, roofs, walls, floors, beams, trusses and fences. People also use bamboo to produce mats, baskets, tools, handles, hats, traditional toys, musical instruments, furniture and interior products. In the food sector, bamboo shoots are becoming more popular. Bamboo has a tremendous potential for economic and environmental development and international trade.
3.2.5.2 Bamboo as a raw material: Bamboo is a non-durable resource. Its use in exposed conditions requires prior treatment (Liese and Kumar, 2003), while its use can be further enhanced through the application of modern engineering Techniques. Bamboo can be processed into modern products (engineered bamboo) that may successfully compete with wood products in price and performance. Use of bamboo in composite panels and boards overcomes differences in quality related to the culms and allows the production of homogeneous products. Engineered bamboo may well replace wood, steel and concrete in many uses.
3.2.5.3 Bamboo charcoal: Bamboo charcoal is traditionally used as a substitute for wood charcoal or mineral coal. It can serve as a fuel, absorbent and conductor. The calorific value of bamboo charcoal is almost half that of oil of the same weight. Activated bamboo charcoal can be used for cleaning the environment, absorbing excess moisture and producing medicines. The absorption capacity of bamboo charcoal is six times that of wood charcoal of the same weight. China is a 90
leader in its production. At present, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Taiwan Province of China are the main consumers, but its importation is rapidly expanding in Europe and North America. There are three main reasons contributing to the success of bamboo charcoal in international trade: 1. bamboo grows faster and has a shorter rotation compared with tree species; 2. the calorific value and absorption properties of bamboo charcoal are similar to or better than those of wood charcoal; and 3. it is cheaper and easier to produce.
3.2.5.4 Bamboo housing: There are three main types of bamboo housing: 1. traditional houses, which use bamboo culms as a primary building material; 2. traditional bahareque bamboo houses, in which a bamboo frame is plastered with cement or clay; and 3. modern prefabricated houses made of bamboo laminated boards, veneers and panels. Experts estimate that over one billion people live in traditional bamboo houses. These buildings are usually cheaper than wooden houses, light, strong and earthquake resistant, unlike brick or cement constructions. New types of prefabricated houses made of engineered bamboo have certain advantages. They can be packed flat and transported long distances at a reasonable cost. They are better designed and environmentally friendly. Bamboo materials are widely available and can be cultivated at a low cost.
3.2.5.5 Bamboo pulp, paper and cloth: Several bamboo-producing countries, such as China and India, use bamboo in pulp, paper and more recently cloth. Bamboo paper has practically the same quality as paper made from wood. Its brightness and optical properties remain stable, while those of paper made from wood may deteriorate over time. The morphological characteristics of bamboo fibres yield paper with a high tear index, similar to that of hardwood paper. The tensile stiffness is somewhat lower compared with softwood paper. The strain strength is between that of hardwood and softwood papers. The quality of bamboo paper may be improved by refining the pulp.
3.2.5.6 Bamboo panels: China started producing bamboo panels in the early 19th century. At present more than 20 different types of panels are produced in Asia. Bamboo fibre is longer than wood fibre, which gives bamboo some technological advantages. The panels are widely used in modern construction as structural elements or as forms for concrete moldings. They are also used for flooring, roofing, partitions, doors and window frames. Bamboo panels have some advantages over wooden boards due to their rigidity and durability. Various types of bamboo veneers, panels and boards can be broadly classified as follows: veneers, strip boards, mat boards, fibreboards, particle boards, medium density boards, combinations of these, and combinations of these with wood and other ligno-cellulose materials and inorganic substances.
3.2.5.7 Bamboo flooring: Bamboo flooring is a quality product that can be used widely and has a large, global consumer market. It has certain advantages over wooden floors due to its smoothness, 91
brightness, stability, high resistance, insulation qualities and flexibility. Bamboo flooring has a soft natural luster and maintains the natural gloss and elegance of bamboo fibre. This flooring is attractive to the demanding markets in Europe, Japan and North America. The estimated annual production of bamboo flooring in China was 17.5 million m2 in 2004. Exports account for some 65 percent of total production (Customs General Administration of China, 2004).
3.2.5.8 Bamboo weaving products and crafts: Bamboo crafts and woven mats are traditional products in China, India, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. The technique has been known for several thousand years. These diverse products have become an indispensable part of daily life, literature and art. There are nearly 20 categories of woven bamboo products in Asia, including fruit baskets, trays, bottles, jars, boxes, cases, bowls, fans, screens, curtains, cushions, lampshades and lanterns.
3.2.5.9 Bamboo fuel: Through pyrolysis, bamboo can be converted into three valuable products: bamboo charcoal, oil and gas. Changing the pyrolysis parameters can change the product shares depending on the purpose and market conditions. Bamboo extracts contain valuable elements and can be used in pharmaceuticals, creams and beverages. Bamboo gas can be used as a substitute for petroleum. Bamboo charcoal is an excellent fuel for cooking and barbequing. Activated charcoal is used as a deodorant, purifier, disinfectant, medicine, agricultural chemical and absorbent of pollution and excessive moisture.
3.2.5.10 Bamboo shoots: About 200 species of bamboo can provide edible and palatable bamboo shoots. Fresh bamboo shoots are delicious and healthy, with high fibre content. Bamboo vegetables can be found in Chinese grocery stores and restaurants worldwide. After cooking the shoots are still crisp, because cooking does not destroy their texture. Cooked bamboo shoots can be stored in containers and shipped worldwide.
3.2.5.11 Bamboo furniture: Traditional bamboo furniture uses natural round or split bamboo. A new type of ‘pack-flat,’ ‘knockdown’ furniture uses glue-laminated bamboo panels. Unlike the traditional design, this furniture may be shipped in compact flat packs, to be assembled on the spot. The new design overcomes many of the problems of traditional bamboo furniture, such as high labour and transportation costs, low productivity, instability, varying quality and susceptibility to insects and fungi. At the same time, it retains the distinct physical, mechanical, chemical, environmental and aesthetic features of bamboo. Export of laminated bamboo furniture is growing rapidly. However, trade statistics currently do not capture the value, owing to the absence of a special code for bamboo furniture. It is usually classified as wooden furniture.
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3.2.5.12 Bamboo and culture: Bamboo is an important resource, which was discovered, adopted and utilized by men in ancient times. The first scripts were written in China on strips of bamboo more than 6 000 years ago. Bamboo pens, brushes and musical instruments were invented 3000 years ago. The first paper was produced from bamboo in China in the ninth century. Bamboo culture is an essential part of human history and civilization, especially in tropical Asia.
3.2.5.13 Bamboo and the environment: Bamboo protects steep slopes by checking soil erosion; and ensures massive carbon sequestration due to its rapid growth and brings many other ecosystem benefits (Adapted from FAO site: ftp://ftp.fao.org/docrep/fao/010/a1243e/a1243e04.pdf).
3.2.6 Production of processed/treated Bamboo
Table.3.7: Year wise production of treated bamboo culms Year Total culms received i/c Culms treated Culms treated for TFDPC procurement & other agencies received from other agencies for treatment No. Length (m) No. Length (m) 2009-2010 500 NA 500 NA 0 2010-2011 2391 NA 2391 NA 500 2011-2012 1021 NA 1021 NA 500
3.2.7 Market for Bamboo products
Bamboo is the most important Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) in Tripura. About 1.49 lakh artisans in the state are engazed in making value added products with bamboo; and of them about 20,000 artisans are engazed in making bamboo handicrafts. The sale value of such handicrafts was Rs.14 crores during 2006-07 (Sharma, 2009). Bamboo as culms and as value added products from the state has a ready market round the year. There was large-scale export of Muli Bash from the state to Bangladesh during 2005-06 to 2007-08 corresponding to gregarious flowering of the species. Apart from the huge demand for housing, agricultural implements and fencing, bamboo weaving products and handicrafts, there is sustained and increasing demand for the low value addition incense sticks. AIE of FDPCL has been producing high quality furniture with treated bamboo since 2007-08 and the year wise production, sale and turnover is shown in table 3.8.
Product types: Household furniture and handicrafts. More details at para 3/1.11.6.
Table.3.8: Production & sale of Value added products from treated bamboo at AIE Year No. of culms Products Sale proceeds (Rs./lakh) used AIE SHG Total 2009-10 500 0.71 0 0.71 2010-11 1891 Furniture & 3.05 2.25 5.30 2011-12 521 handicrafts 0.61 1.47 2.08 93
3.2.8 Export potential for Bamboo products
3.2.8.1 General: ‘Bamboo serves numerous small users around the globe, but international trade statistics show that it has also become a very competitive resource in the international arena. Small, medium and large-scale industries should be promoted further to more effectively facilitate poverty reduction and sustainable economic and environmental development in the developing world. With modern techniques and technology, bamboo can be processed into a wide range of commodities. Engineered bamboo successfully competes with wood and other raw materials in highly demanding international markets. Trade statistics are important not only for market analysis, but also for assessment of the sustainability of bamboo resources. Statistics regarding major importers of bamboo products is shown below (Source: FAO: ftp://ftp.fao.org/docrep/fao/010/a1243e/a1243e04.pdf).
3.2.8.2 New initiatives: There is scope for capture of a larger market share both in the domestic and export markets for traditional bamboo products with quality improvement and FSC certification for responsible management. TFDPCL has already started producing knockdown furniture with improved designs. TFDPCL has been preparing for engineered bamboo products which can compete with superior wood products in price and performance. As per the 2009 technical report of Bamboo Engineering Research Centre (BERC), Nanjing Forestry University confirmed suitability of Muli Bash (Melocanna baccifera) for engineered panels and boards. Similarly the suitability of muli bans for rayon grade fiber is also worth exploration.
3.3 COST NORMS FOR CREATION OF PLANTATIONS AND COST OF PRODUCTION OF RUBBER WOOD BOARDS AND TREATED SAWN RUBBER TIMBER
Average cost of creation of rubber & bamboo plantations and production of treated rubber sawn timber and finger jointed edge glued boards are given in Appendix-4 & 5 respectively.
3.4 Current prices
3.4.1 Rubber wood and boards
a. Sale price of treated rubber wood is Rs.565 per cubic feet (CFT) with effect from 25th February 2011 b. Sale price of finger jointed edge glued rubber wood boards is on an average Rs.93 per square feet with effect from 25th February 2011. Price for the 6 quality categories and 7 thickness classes is shown in the Appendix-6.
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c. Price list of furniture and other products made of rubber and bamboo at AIE is given in the Appendix-7. d. Sale price of rubber wood wastes in the form of side and off-cuts as fuelwood is Rs.117 per quintal with effect from 29th January 2011
3.4.2 Bamboo – market price (including transportation to AIE)
Kanak kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri): Diameter 1.25 to 1.5 inches: Rs. 19- 20; diameter 0.5 to 0.75 inch: Rs.15 to 16 per culm. Bom Bash (Bambusa cacharensis): Diameter 3 to 3.5 inches, length 20 feet: Rs.100 to 110; Barak Bash (Bambusa balcooa): Diameter 3.5 to 4 inches, length 16 to 18 feet: Rs.200-220 per culm (Reference: Bill dated 19th July and 11th September 2012 of AIE)
3.5 Applicable Tax Structure to Rubber wood and Bamboo products
1. Value Added Tax (VAT) 13.5% on Timber, Boards & Furniture made of Timber & Board 2. Income Tax Collected at source (TCS): Income Tax (IT)- 2.5% plus 3% Education Cess on IT (TCS is not applicable for sale to Government Departments and organizations.
Total revenue earned in the year 2011-12 was IRS 220.2 Lakh on which the total VAT payment was IRS 13.2 Lkah and the tax collected at source is IRS 1.18 Lakh.
3.6 LINES OF EXPORT
3.6.1 Roads: Tripura with its area of 104891 square km is reasonably well connected with 7828 km of roads.
Table.3.9: National Highways constructed in Tripura National Highway Distance in Km National High Way (NH 44) 448 State High Way 689 Major District Roads 90 Other District Roads 1218 Village Roads (PWD) 5230 Railway Road 153
Of the total 7828 km of road 4534 km is black topped; 2990 km is brick soled.
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3.6.2 Railways: Agartala, the capital town of Agartala was connected by rail link on the 29th June 2008. The total length of Railroad in Tripura is 153 km; and the ground work for extension of the line by another 110 km far south to Sabroom is in progress. A major portion of merchandise from and to Tripura is transported by railway. Timber, particularly teak from farm forestry plantations, is transported to mainland India by train.
3.6.3 Rivers: There are eleven major rivers and numerous hill streams (known locally as Chherra) in the state. The rivers and streams are rain-fed. Most of the rivers and hill streams including the river Haora, the major source of water for the capital town of Agartala, run virtually dry during summer. Navigability of the rivers has been very adversely affected generally due to large-scale degradation of the catchment areas; but a few of them, despite much reduction in flow during the dry months, like rivers Gumti, Dhalai and Manu are still used for transport of bamboo and other merchandise.
Prospect of road and river transit through Bangladesh and use of the sea and river ports there is also bright; and that will reduce time and cost of transport out of Tripura substantially.
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PART I
CHAPTER-IV
STAFF, REGULAR WORKERS AND LABOUR SUPPLY
4.1 STAFF
TFDPCL is a Public Sector Undertaking with authorized share capital of Rs.1000 lakh. The present equity participation is Rs.890.44 lakh by the State Government of Tripura and Rs.29.50 lakh by the Government of India totaling Rs.919.94 lakhs. The management, line personnel and support staff during inception was drawn from the State Forest Department on deputation at the time of inception of TFDPCL in 1976. TFDPCL started recruiting field and office staff directly. Currently the top and senior management positions are manned generally by officers from the Tripura part of the Indian Forest Service (IFS), Manipur-Tripura cadre and Tripura Forest Service (TFS) on deputation. Stenographers are also drawn on deputation from the State Government.
4.2. Salary, Wages and other Personnel benefits
The mangerail personnel of the TFDPCL on deputation from the state government receive their salaries and other benefits including service conditions at par with the state government norms in their respective parent departments plus they receive incentives as decided by the Board from time to time. The managerial and other permanent staff receive their salary and other benefits as per the terms decided by the coprporation with approval of the state Government of Tripura. The other staff like regular workers receive the minimum wages and other benefits at par with the decision of the state government from time to time like CPF, Gratuity, Medical reimbursemengt, uniforms etc. the coporation provides additional benefits over and above the mandatory norms of the state like production incentives. In addition contractiual labours are engaged for various seasonal activities like plantations (rubber and bamboo), harvesting, transportation and other operations that provide employment to more than 3000 local people at TFDPCL operational sites.
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PART I
CHAPTER - V
PAST SYSTEM OF MANAGEMENT
5.1 General History of Tripura Forest and TFDPC Plantations
5.1.1 Forest under the royal kingdom of Tripura: Tripura, an independent Princely State during the British rule, was endowed with luxuriant Tropical Evergreen, Semi Evergreen and Moist Deciduous Forests interspersed with extensive bamboo brakes invading shifting cultivation fallows in the uplands. The state was ‘independent’ in the sense that subject to payment of tax, the British India Government would not supposedly interfere in its day-to-day administration. Timber, bamboo, canes and a wide variety of non-timber forest produce (NTFP) including plants edible and bearing edibles and medicinal herbs in the forests constituted a valued resource base for the livelihood of the people of the state and mainly for the forest dependent hill tribes. But, from the view point of the East India Company, which came in contact with the State in 1761 AD, the hilly territory was of little economic value, as it was covered by impenetrable jungles and swamps with very little cultivation area (Sharma, 2010).
Forest resources in the state appeared to be inexhaustible without much of a market earlier to be of interest for the royal Government. Consequently there was no regulation except for the requirement to obtain an 'Ujan toka', a permit to proceed upstream to fell and extract logs from any number of forest trees on payment of 25 paise or one-fourth of a Rupee. The best of the logs obviously were rafted down rivers and hill steams subject to checks at designated Ghats or Check Posts situated down steam for assessment and realisation of royalty by issue of ‘Bhatial’ or receipt/permit before the consignment entered British India. The state recognized the economic value of its forests at a later stage when demand for forest produce rose substantially with development of the adjoining districts of British India (now Bangladesh) for forest produce.
Administrative reports of Tipperah (Tripura) for the period 1894-95 recognize that tax on forest produce continued to be the largest source of revenue constituting 39 – 44% of the total state revenue. The administrative reports for 1873-74 AD indicates that tax on forest produce was partly realised under Khas (State) management and partly through farmers. The farmers were mostly kinsman of the Maharaja or his descendents. Farmers’ rights were collection of royalty on for forest produce removed by rivers and by land. Collection on forest produce removed by land was,
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however, insignificant. The forest mehal (estate) through Feni River was under Khas management system at Amlighat toll station after 1874 for forest produce exported to British India (Chittagong). Tripura state shared 10 annas from the toll and the British India Government shared 6 annas from the toll on forest produce. Forest produce of the state were generally sold in the adjoining British India territory. Duties were levied on Garjan (Dipterocarpus spp.) in 1879-80; but it was soon abolished considering the meager revenue that it produced. Rent was collected from Grass (thatch) mehal. Supply of bamboo and grass was perceived to be in-exhaustible whereas good timber was considered scarce in accessible areas.
Tenancy Act [Act I of 1296 Tripura Era (TE) (1886 AD)] is said to be the first Act relating to forests in Tripura. This Act reserved full and exclusive rights and control of the state on harvest of several valuable trees e.g. Sal, Garjan, Agar, etc. and control over rivers, ordinary roads, pasture and over treasure ivory. Talukdars, Izaradars and other tenants were restrained from exercise of the above rights in the estates assigned to them. The Act II of 1297 TE (1887 AD) contained provisions similar to the Indian Forest Act, 1887. This Act provided for issue of notification on boundaries of forest areas and preservation of forests. The Act prohibited shifting cultivation nearby sal forests. The emphasis initially was on reservation of valuable trees but later forest areas were identified for reservation and a process for organization of the Forest Department was initiated. This Act could not, however, be enforced effectively (Sharma, 2010).
The State declared the need for forest conservancy during 1877-78. Forest produces like cotton, til (sesame), wild elephants, parrots (parakeets), bamboo mats and baskets constituted major part of export during 1885-86 AD. Open forests were divided into lots or mehals to allow farming under some restrictions in 1908-09 AD. Forest Regulations on export of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) by land route were extended in the same year to Sonamura Division, which created violence initially. In the year 1909-10 AD forest was the principal source of state revenue; and of the total forest revenue of Rs.3,18,017 the share of Minor Forest Produce (MFP was Rs. 2,90,743. The King during the same year desired that definite policy be adopted for forest administration with necessary safeguards against deforestation resulting from reclamation of jungle tracts. By the year 1915-16 AD introduction of permit system under Khas management was completed; and family permits for export was also introduced. These steps showed encouraging results. By the year 1916- 17 AD, all the mehals except Gumti were brought under Khas management. By 1919-20 AD all state forests were brought under Khas management but Gumti river remained under Izara (lease). The authority and function of Kheda operation for capture of wild elephants was transferred from the Land revenue Department to the Forest Department in 1921-22; and forest revenue was collected under the following heads:
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1. Un-classed open Forests: a. Toll on forest produce exported through river mehals b. Toll on forest produce exported by land routes under permit c. Toll collection (share) of Feni River mehal d. Grazing mehal e. Thatch grass mehal 2. Reserved Forests: Sale of Sal (Shorea robusta) and Garjan trees (Dipterocapus spp.) 3. Elephant Kheda (An operation to trap/capture wild elephants)
Open forests were worked under the State Rules of 1323 TE (1923-24 AD) under Khas management. Act II of 1338 TE (1923-24 AD) was passed for prevention of smuggling of elephant tusks. Reserved sal forests of Sonamura were managed under the silvicultural system of Coppice with Standards; and those of Udaipur Division were managed under the Selection System. Most of the forest areas, excepting a few mehals, were under Khas (State) management by 1942-43. Records reveal determined policy initiatives and actions for introducing scientific management of forests since 1940 by reorganization of the Forest Department including appointment of a Conservator of Forests as head of the department. There are records of creation of plantations of Sal, Gamar. Sonal and Jarul during the princely regime and the remnants of some of the magnificent plantations hold on till date in Sal Bagan at Hatipara south of the capital town of Agartala.
5.1.2 Status after merger of the princely state with the Indian Union
Forest: The princely state of Tripura merged with the Indian Union on the 15th October 1950. A notification was issued thereafter by the Government of Tripura under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (IFA) on the 28th March 1951 to “declare all areas of un-classed Government Open Forests of Tripura comprising approximately 2438 sq. miles which were not constituted as Reserved Forests and are not under reclamation under orders of the Revenue Department as ‘Protected Forest’ with immediate effect and all the Sections under Chapter IV of the said Act (IFA) shall now apply to these forests.” A set of Notifications were issued later on the 29th April, 1952 framing Forest rules under the provision of IFA relating to Reserve Forests and Protected Forests. There was, however, confusion on the legal status of RFs constituted by the erstwhile princely state. The matter reached the court of law and it was settled finally by a judgment dated 5th May 1964 by the Supreme Court stating that RFs notified by the erstwhile princely state could not be deemed to be so within the meaning of IFA. The long and arduous process for constitution of RFs under IFA had to be started anew. The prolonged period of virtual absence of legal protection contributed to colossal abuse and
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diversion of RF lands. Significantly this coincided with large-scale rehabilitation of refugees from East Pakistan following partition of India.
Working Plan: The working plan for forests of the entire territory of Tripura was first drawn by Shri D. C. Choudhury and the said plan was brought into force in the year 1958. The entire forest area of this territory under the first working plan was ultimately split into nine Forest Divisions; and these have been managed under regular working plans prepared as per standards set by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.
Rubber: Rubber, now the most sought after plantation species in Tripura, was raised for the first time as a plantation crop in a degraded forestland under a Soil Conservation scheme in 1963 by the Forest Department, Government of Tripura as described in para 2.2.4. More than 400 ha of rubber plantation had been raised prior to the formation of TFDPCL in 1976 with the mandate to rehabilitate degraded forest land with rubber.
5.1.3 TFDPCL Plantations: A lease agreement was signed between the State Forest Department and TFDPCL on the 16th February, 1981 for transfer of 5300 ha of degraded forest land, 418.66 ha of existing rubber plantations and 55.40 ha of bamboo plantations in forest land on lease for a period of 42 years for a lease rent of Re.1/- per ha per annum. The agreement included a provision to the effect that the Government shall also transfer additional forest areas as may be required for expansion of projects under TFDPCL.
TFDPCL, since its inception in 1976, created rubber plantation in degraded forest land on a regular basis for the twin objectives of rehabilitation of degraded forests and their commercial management for generation of wealth and employment in the state. Government schemes and projects for economic resettlement of weaker sections of rural households through rubber plantation were also implemented by the company. Commercial rubber plantation under TFDPCL as in 2012-13 is 7087 ha in addition to 2448 ha for economic rehabilitation of marginalized ST and SC households under different government schemes and projects. The company started creation of new bamboo plantations since 2011-12 and the area under bamboo as in 2012-13 is 64 ha.
5.2 PAST MANAGEMENT AND RESULTS
5.2.1 Forest: The focus in Tripura post-merger, particularly after regular flow of funds for afforestation under 5-year Plans, has been on creation of artificial plantations. The flagship National Afforestation Programme (NAP) in Joint Forest Management (JFM) mode is under implementation in Tripura since 2002-03 and it was followed by two externally aided projects
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(EAP) both in JFM mode. The two EAPs are, (1) Tripura JICA Project assisted by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Government of Japan also known as Tripura Environment Improvement and Poverty Alleviation Project operational since 2007-08 and the Indo-German Development Cooperation (IGDC) Project launched in June 2009.
The Forest Research Division (FRD) in Tripura was the first in the north eastern region to introduce participatory forestry (now JFM) in mid-1991 that effectively associated organized forest fringe-dwellers as partners in forest management. FRD and the JFM Committee (JFMC) worked in unision successfully resuscitating a tract of degraded sal forest (plantation) at Melaghar within a year by organizing community protection and cultural operations like multiple shoot cutting. The overall progress in formation of JFMCs and the progress in afforestation under NAP till 2011-12 in Tripura are shown below:
Table 5.1 Brief particulars of JFMCs in Tripura Plan Status of all JFMCs in the Status of JFMCs under NAP Period state Number Area Households (no.) Number Area Households (ha) SC ST Others Total (ha) (no.)
(9th Plan) 212 37503 13659 0 0 0 0 0 0 (10th Plan) 472 128221 44882 236 94922 3487 13227 3588 20362 (11th Plan) 946 260211 95048* 507 147959 6773 21911 11155 39839 Source: Office of PCCF, Tripura * Includes ST: 39931
Table 5.2 Afforestation under NAP in Tripura 2002-03 to 2011-12.
Year Afforestation Afforestation - Fund released Expenditure i/c – Target Achievement (Rs./lakh) ancillary activities Rs./lakh) 2002-03 245 245 343.75 20.15 2003-04 4815 4907 397.00 384.41 2004-05 5300 5053 463.00 574.25 2005-06 4790 4080 427.41 461.79 2006-07 4835 3667 436.97 374.18 2007-08 5590 3800 502.00 251.89 2008-09 1165 2411 89.00 573.94 2009-10 1812 1778 320.00 202.51 2010-11 4468 3134 1042.96 836.70 2011-12 7229 6517 1361.00 1214.10* Total 40249 35592 5383.09 4893.92
Source: Forest Department, Tripura *Provisional
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The two EAPs, apart from significant environmental and socio-economic development of forest dependent rural households, created plantations in degraded forest land over 6325 ha under the IGDC project till 1011-12 and 11500 ha under the JICA project till 2011-12.
Results of Past management: Despite the remarkable progress in afforestation through several schemes including the more recent flagship NAP and the two high finance EAPs in JFM mode, the forest in Tripura suffered significant degradation. The reasons for degradation of forests are many. The virtually unregulated removal of forest produce and the legacy of shifting cultivation caused degradation of forests. But reclamation of ecologically fragile forestland for farming during the royal regime caused much more deforestation, degradation and actual erosion of forest land. The situation became worse post merger in virtual absence of administration of the valued erstwhile RFs due to a legal challenge on their status remaining subjudice for too long. Vast areas of forest land including the erstwhile RFs, with their status under cloud, were allotted for rehabilitation of refugees from East Pakistan, a priority in view of the great human tragedy. Government forest lands in Tripura including RF are, therefore, highly fragmented with parcels of private land holdings scattered in between. Encroachments into forest areas are almost a regular feature even to this day. Large scale shifting cultivation continues unabated and some even within plantations.
Rights on forest land under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA) were vested in 1.2 lakh households (Approx. State population - 36.7 lakh) involving 1688 sq. km of forestland till May 2012. This is nearly 27% of government forestland of 6293 sq. km. Vesting of these rights occurred in a scattered manner honeycombing the forest resulting in massive fragmentation of the already highly fragmented forestland. Protection and scientific management of forests in Tripura under the circumstances is a very big challenge.
The biennial India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2011 indicated a net loss of forest cover of 96 square km in Tripura compared to the status as per ISFR 2009.
5.2.2 Rubber Plantation under TFDPCL:
5.2.2.1 General: TFDPCL created and managed rubber plantation since 1976. Rubber plantation created earlier by the Forest Department of rubber plantation of the Forest Department was also transferred to TFDPCL soon after its formation along with some bamboo plantations (para 5.1.3). TFDPCL as in 2012-13 has 7087 ha of commercial rubber plantation in addition to 2448 ha under government schemes and projects for economic resettlement of marginalized households belonging to Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes. TFDPCL created and managed rubber plantation initially for harvest of latex for production mainly of sheet rubber. There was no use for a long
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time for older rubber trees, which were not tapped for latex being un-economical. Rubber plantations were created initially since 1963 with seedlings grown from unselected seeds from Kerala. Use of budded stumps of selected high yielding varieties in large-scale was introduced gradually by TFDPCL since 1977 followed by planting of containerized (poly bag) seedlings grown from budded stumps of approved clones. TFDPCL hired bud-grafting trainers from Kerala with the help of the Rubber Board for quality plantation operations and training of the TFDPCL staff in the initial phase.
Production of treated rubber wood commenced from 1999-2000 and that for finger jointed and edge glued rubber wood boards commenced in AIE since 2008-09. 4362 cubic meters of treated rubber wood and 7432 wood boards measuring 631 cubic meters were produced from AIE till 2011-12. (para 3.2.1 & table 3.5). The treated rubber wood and boards have a ready market as discussed in para 3.2.1.
5.2.3 Bamboo
TFDPCL ventured into the bamboo sector more recently with setting up of a Value Addition Centre for Bamboo at AIE in collaboration with Tripura JICA project in the form of a Common facility Centre for creation of self-employment amongst local youths mainly women. It became operational since 2007-08 and its products with unique designs earned appreciation and have a ready market. Creation of bamboo plantation under TFDPCL commenced from 2011-12 (para 5.1.3) and by 2012-13 created 64 ha of bamboo plantation.
5.2.4 Observations on past management
5.2.4.1 Rubber
5.2.4.1.1 Clonal diversity: TFDPCL maintains its own bud-wood nursery of the clones approved by Rubber Board. The clones are insect & pest resistant. All the plantations of TFDPCL are bud- received from their own bud wood nurseries. It is generally preferred to have 10% seedlings of direct seed origin in the plantations.
5.2.4.1.2 Productivity: Average productivity per ha of rubber plantations in the non-traditional region (excluding Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka) for 2008-09 is 1172 kg per ha (The Rubber Board: http://rubberboard.org.in/rubberstaticsdisplaypage.asp visited on December 20, 2012). The total production of rubber in Tripura in 2011-12 was estimated at 32332 MT from the mature plantation area of 27341 ha (Source: the Rubber Board, Zonal Office, Agartala); and that works out to the average of 1183 kg per ha. However on account of low tree density (200 trees per hectare 105
against standard of planting stock of 450 trees) and low intensity management practices (less fertifliser used), the average productivity of rubber plantation under TFDPCL for five years since 2007-08 is computed at 484 kg per ha.
5.2.4.1.3 Low plant density: The average per ha productivity of 484 kg is substantially lower than the corresponding average productivity of 920 kg per tapping Block, indicating a very low average tree density in rubber plantations under tapping. The Division wise status is tabulated below:
Table 5.3: Average productivity of commercial rubber plantation for 5 years since 2007-08 Productivity (latex-100% DRC) in kilograms per taping Block/ per ha Division Average productivity of tapping Average productivity per ha Block Sadar 998 555 North 968 449 South I 826 476 South II 1276 664 Factory 532 275 Total 4600 2419 Average for 5 years 920 483.80 Acronym: Dry Rubber Content - DRC
5.2.4.1.6 Production of treated and seasoned sawn rubber wood: The rubber wood logs arrival from old plantations averaged at 2266 cubic meters during 2008-2011 and 1163 cubic meters during 2011-12. Corresponding production of treated sawn wood was 802 cubic meters and 387 cubic meters respectively. The wood should reach within 48 hours of logging for processing so as to get light brown color good quality timber for high-end furniture products. The conventional kiln drying process takes 40 days.
5.2.4.1.7 Wood Working Operations: The smooth functioning of wood working operations and machines is important to maintain sufficient stock of wood for furniture making and thus timely preventive maintenance and upkeep of inventory of key components is also necessary. ABC analysis of components is a good tool to maintain propoer inventory.
5.2.4.2 Bamboo
5.2.4.2.1 Choice of species: The creation of bamboo plantations in favour of species which offer opportunity for industrial use with high value addition has been considered with four important species identified for future plantations (para 2.3.3, Table 2.8).
5.2.4.2.2 Selection of area for bamboo plantation: Bamboo is planted only in areas not already devoted to rubber plantation with no plan to plant bamboo in rubber plantation areas in steep slopes after harvest of old plantations for sustainability and ecological security.
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5.2.4.3 Administration and establishment
5.2.4.3.1 Vacancies against sanctioned posts: There are sufficient positions with sanctioned posts of 363 for smooth functioning of the organization and efforts to fill all the positions, particularly at managerial levels in different functional areas are being made (para 4.1).
5.2.4.3.2 Health and Safety: TFDPCL places high importance to health and safety of its personnel and makes sincere efforts in implementing the same. Documentation of SOPs, regular monitoring, training and display of essential safety protocols for each machine operations has been put in place (manual for the AIE). Observing Health & Safety Week across the organization rienforces the commitment of one and all on this important aspect.
5.3 RECENT INITIATIVES UNDERTAKEN
Some of the recent initiatives / pecial works undertaken since 2007-08 are briefly described below:
5.3.1 Tasks accomplished
5.3.1.1 Improvement of communication in AIE: Comprehensive communication network for AIE was organized in 2009 by providing PBX/Intercom facility, a laptop computer with mobile net connectivity and mobile telephone links to all AIE managers.
5.3.1.2 Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) for Production and Marketing: TFDPCL signed an agreement (on 16th June, 2007) with two private entrepreneurs M/s WOODY’s and M/s Alamode Furniture, Agartala as partners in PPP model for production and marketing of rubber wood furniture under TFDPCL brand. The terms and conditions for the agreement required the two partners to:
Cooperate in implementation and promotion of the programme and business of the Unakoti Crafts & Furniture Center (UCF) at AIE. Work as marketing partners and as marketing agents of CFC/TFDPCL Upgrade design and workmanship in manufacture of furniture by UCF and remit rental charges for their use of UCF for production of their products from rubber wood procured from AIE.
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Design furniture prototypes and to be responsible for obtaining orders, marketing by opening showrooms. Work on no profit basis for at least 5% of their products under the custody of TFDPCL for the purpose of promotion of market and exhibition. Deposit 1% of their turn over against the sale of their products from UCF.
Based on experience for about two years, the terms of agreement were revisited in 2009 and made specific as follows:
AIE, on receipt of enquiry for customized furniture or interior works shall offer the work to one of the two entrepreneurs, for submission of details of design and specification as well as break up of cost of production and profit. A committee constituted of the Senior Manager and Deputy Manager-cum-Officer-in- charge, Bamboo Development Unit of AIE will examine the proposal and submit the same to GM, AIE with recommendation as may be necessary for change/modification; and the GM after consultation with the concerned entrepreneur will approve the proposal. AIE will communicate to the customer the details of the approved product specification and the final sale price after adding 7.5% on the approved cost payable to the concerned entrepreneur including its profit. This 7.5% against sale proceeds shall be retained by AIE as revenue for marketing support, allowing TFDPC brand name, supervision and quality control. The two entrepreneurs are allowed to use the ‘Unokoti’ trade mark (under the process of registration then and now registered) for such products for which work orders are issued by AIE. In order to promote the brand names of the two entrepreneurs as partners of TFDPC AIE, they are also allowed to use additional stickers “M/s Alamode for TFDPC IE” or “M/s Woody’s for TFDPC IE” as the case may be permissible only for products for which work order is issued by AIE for production on its behalf.
The revised agreement considerably improved the product diversity of AIE/UCF and the overall performance of both AIE and the two entrepreneurs.
5.3.1.3 Comprehensive Fire Watch and Control System for AIE: The process for drawing up a comprehensive plan for installation of a Fire Fighting System for the AIE was initiated in 2008 in collaboration with the State Fire Service Organisation. Fire extinguishers and accessories were installed at vulnerable points in 2009 as an interim arrangement in consultation with the District Fire Officer, Sadar. 108
5.3.1.4 Technology for industrial application of Muli Bash (Melocanna baccifera): As a follow up to the MoU signed on 11th December 2007 with Bamboo Engineering and Research Center (BERC), Nanjing Forestry University, Jiangsu, China, a consignment of 4 year old Muli culms and bamboo slivers was dispatched to BERC to determine the suitability of Muli for production of engineered panels and boards for the export market in accordance with a subsequent agreement by TFDPCL with BERC in November, 2008. BERC confirmed very good test results and dispatched samples of the engineered products developed to TFDPCL. Final Technical report from BERC was also received by TFDPCL in 2009 for preparation of Techno Economic Feasibility Report for setting up a Strand oven Bamboo Board Unit in Tripura as a joint venture.
5. 4. FIVE YEAR PLANS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS
Funds received under plan schemes and projects during 2007-08 to 2012-13 are given in table 5.4.
Table 5.4: Funds received during last six years under various schemes
Funding Agency Financial-Year Rs./Lakh Total Amount 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
NEC 29.62 0 0 0 0 0 29.62 TW Deptt. 45.00 40.00 23.25 0 0 0 108.25 NEC 179.00 100.00 62.00 0 0 0 341.00 ITTO 19.13 0 0 0 0 0 19.13 TBM 30.00 0 0 0 0 0 30.00 Tripura JICA Project 10.00 38.16 0 0 0 0 48.16 TRM 2.07 5.00 0 0 0 0 7.07 FD 150.00 0 0 0 0 0 150.00 DRDA 10.50 0 0 0 0 0 10.50 TIDCL (ASIDE) 166.00 0 0 0 0 0 166.00 TTAADC 0 2.24 0 0 0 0 2.24 APEDA 0 190.00 6.00 0 0 0 196.00 NCE (JICA) 0 0 20.00 0 0 0 20.00 Total Amount 641.32 375.40 111.25 0 0 0 1127.97
Particulars of utilisation of the above fund are shown below:
01. NEC :- Fund for Rs.29.62 lakhs have been utilized for establishing Unokoti Crafts & Furniture Unit. Amount has been utilized for procurement of machineries and creation of CFC. 02. Tribal Welfare Department: Rs.108.25 lakhs has been utilized for creation & maintenance of plantation for rehabilitating the tribal jhumias. 03. TRWF:-
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The fund has been received from NEC. Rs. 3.41 crores has been received and utilized for making solid rubber wood boards. The annual capacity of the factory is making 45 solid rubber wood boards per day. 04. ITTO:- The money has been utilized for engaging consultant for pre-project report for mobilizing the fund. 05. TBM:- Funding from Tripura Bamboo Mission has been utilized for establishing technical collaboration with China on Bamboo Resource Value Addition and also for capacity building. 06. NCE / JICA:- Rs. 68.16 lakhs has been utilized for establishing CFC at Nagicherra for value addition in bamboo related product. 07. TRM:- Money has been utilized for mapping of rubber area in the State and assessing the rubber yield and training of tappers. 08. Jatropha: Rs. 150.00 lakhs has been utilized for raising Jetropha plantations all over Tripura. 09. DRDA:- Rs. 10.5 lakhs has been utilized for creation of residential facilities for the carpenters and artisans. 10. TIDC:- Money has been utilized for infrastructure development like water facility, iron removal plant, water supply pipeline etc. 11. TTAADC:- Money has been spent for maintenance of older plantations which have been raised for resettlement of tribals. 12. Door Project: Funds have been provided by Department of Commerce through APEDA as Doors manufactured are to be exported. Rs. 488.00 lakhs has been utilized for development of Door Factory.
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PART I
CHAPTER-VI
STATISTICS
6.1 General: Standard growth and yield tables for the target species of Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) in respect of timber and latex and that for Muli Bash (Melocanna baccifera) and Kanak Kaich Bash (Thyrsostachys oliveri) are not available. Available information in this respect from the State Forest Research Division, TFDPCL and the Rubber Board are placed herein below for this plan.
6.2. Yield
6.2.1 Latex from rubber plantations: Average production of rubber latex in terms of dry rubber content (DRC) in India as in 2009-10 was 1784 kg per ha of area available for tapping (http://keralafarmeronline.com/rubber-statistics/lang/en/). Average productivity per ha of rubber plantations in the non-traditional region (excluding Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka) for 2008-09 is 1172 kg per ha (The Rubber Board: http://rubberboard.org.in/rubberstaticsdisplaypage.asp visited on December 20, 2012). Further, the overall productivity of rubber latex in Tripura during 2011-12 was 1183 kg per ha (Source: The Rubber Board, Zonal Office, Agartala). As against this the average production of rubber under TFDPCL during 2007-08 to 2011 -12 is as below:
Table 6.1: Productivity of latex from rubber plantations under TFDPL during 2007-08 to 2011-12 (In kg of DRC) Particulars Divisions TFDPC average North Sadar South I South II Factory Productivity/ha 449 555 476 664 275 484 Productivity/Block 968 998 826 1276 532 920
6.2.2 Timber yield from rubber plantations after its economic life for latex production is over: A rubber tree from small holdings in India produces about 0.57 m3 of timber and the yield per ha is about 150 m3 (para 3.1.9.1); and against that a documentation by TFDPL for May 2012 to September 2012 showed 0.25 m3 of log timber per tree.
6.2.3 Yield of bamboo
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6.2.3.1 According to documentation by the Forest Research Division, Agartala (K Sasi Kumar) yield from plantation of Kanak Kaich (spacing 1.25 m x 1.25 m), Barak (spacing 4.5 m x 4.5 m), Mritinga (spacing 4.5 m x 4.5 m), Rupai (spacing 4.5 m x 4.5 m) and Paura (spacing 4.5 m x 4.5 m) bamboos in Tripura are as below.
Table 6.2: Yield from Bamboo plantations in Tripura (Number of culms)
Harvesting year Kanak kaich Barak Mritinga Rupai Paura 3rd 12800 0 0 0 0 4th 25600 990 3465 3465 1485 5th 25600 1485 3465 3465 1485 6th 25600 1485 3960 3960 1980 7th 32000 1485 3960 3960 1980
PS: 3rd and 4th year yield in case of Kanak kaich is not complete and is mainly for fishing rods
6.2.3.2 Yield in number of culms adopted for this Plan: The spacing of the plantation for Kanak Kaich envisaged in this plan is 1 m x 1 m close to the spacing used by private growers at Katlamara in Sadar Sub-Division. The yield in numbers of culms in case of Kanak Kaich based on the “Management plan for ‘Kanakkaich’ bamboo plantations of Katlamara, Tripura” by IIFM is 2.5 per clump and the number of clumps per hectare is forecasted as 7500 and thus the forecasted yield of bamboo (culms) is 18750 per hectare (Source: Manmohan Yadav et al, 2003. IIFM Bhopal report). This has been adopted as a standard for this plan. No assessment for Muli bamboo is taken into account at this stage in view of the stipulation at Part II, para 3.5.1.
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List of Annexures for Part – I
Annexure Sr No SUBJECT Para reference Annexure –I The objects for which the company is established 1.1/1.4 Pt. I Annexure –II Year wise & Division wise area statement of rubber 1.1/1.4 Pt. I plantations of TFDPCL Annexure –III Activity Flow Chart of Tripura Rubber Wood Factory 3.1.9.3.2 Pt. I (TRWF) Annexure IV Cost norms for creation of rubber & bamboo 3.3 Pt. I plantations Annexure –V Cost of production of rubber wood boards and treated 3.3 Pt. I sawn rubber timber Annexure –VI Sale price of finger jointed edge glued rubber wood 3.4.1.c Pt. I boards for the 6 quality categories and 7 thickness classes Annexure –VII Price list of furniture and other products made of rubber 3.4.1.d Pt. I and bamboo at AIE Annexure –VIII Summary of Study of Report on Environment Impact Assessment of Rubber Plantation of TFDPC Ltd - By Tripura University Annexure -IX Summary Report of Socio-economic study for TFDPCL - By Tripura University
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FSC TRG WS 1May-June 2012
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel
on
FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations At Agartala
May 30 & June 03, 2012
Programme Directors
Prof. Manmohan Yadav
Dr. R B Lal
Day 1: May 30, 2012
Time Programme Resource Person (s) 9:30 – 10:00 Registration TFDPC Staff 10:00 – 11:00 Inaugural Session Welcome of the guests with flower bouquet
Welcome & Opening Remarks Dr. Alind Rastogi Introduction to the Workshop Dr. R B Lal, Director, IIFM Address by the Chief Guest Mr. S. Talukdar, PCCF, Government of Tripura Vote of Thanks Prof. Manmohan Yadav 11:00 – 11:30 High Tea Guests & Participants 11:30 – 1:00 Concept and Essential Elements of Forest Prof. Manmohan Yadav Certification 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at WS Venue 14:00 –15:30 Benefits of Forest Certification to TFDPC Dr. R B Lal 15:30 – 16:00 Tea 16:00 – 17:15 Concept of COC and Logo Use under Forest Prof. Manmohan Yadav Certification 17:15 – 18:00 Discussions and Addressing Queries Dr. Alind Rastogi, Prof. Manmohan Yadav, Mr. U. Tripura, Mr. Biplab Datta, Mr. Alak Pal and Other TFDPC officials
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May 31, 2012
- Discussions with Key Personnel of TFDPC June 01, 2012 (10:00 – 16:00 Hours)
- Field Visit to Rubber wood Processing unit and Bamboo Product Development unit at Anand Nagar (Prof. Manmohan Yadav, Mr. Biplab Datta, , Mr. Alak Pal, Mrs. Madhumita Som and other TFDPC officials). June 02, 2012 (08:00 – 20:00 Hours)
- Field Visit to Rubber Plantations Centre at Latex Factory at Takmachera - (Prof. Manmohan Yadav, Mr. Alak Pal, Mr. Pankaj Debnath and Mr. A Chakravorthy and other TFDPC officials). June 03, 2012 Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training (continued)
Day 2: June 03, 2012
10:00 – 11:30 Specific requirements for FSC FM Mr. Manu Jose Mattam Certification for Plantations 11:30 – 11:45 Tea 11:45 – 14:15 Specific requirements for FSC COC Dr. Alind Rastogi, Prof. Manmohan Certification and Logo Use for Plantations : Yadav, Mr. U. Tripura, Mr. Biplab Discussions and Addressing Queries Datta, Mr. Alak Pal, & Mr. Manu Jose Mattam and other officials of TFDPC 14:15 – 15:00 Lunch WS Venue 15:00-16:00 Discussions on Documentation / Dr. Alind Rastogi, Prof. Manmohan Requirements for FSC Certification for Yadav, Mr. U. Tripura, Mr. Biplab TFDPC Datta, Mr. Alak Pal, & Mr. Manu Jose Mattam 16:30 Debriefing meeting (GAP Analysis) at Dr. Alind Rastogi, Prof. Manmohan TFDPC with senior officials Yadav, Mr. U. Tripura, Mr. Biplab Datta & Mr. Alak Pal.
LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
Programme Director: Prof. Manmohan Yadav
Venue: Paratia and Udaipur
Date : 30th May and 3rd June 2012
A Two Days Sensitization-cum-Capacity Building Workshop-cum-Training Programme for TFDPC Personnel on Forest Stewardship Certification (FSC) on Forest Management (FM) & Chain of Custody (CoC) for TFDPC Plantation and Rubber Wood and Bamboo processing held on 30th May and 3rd June 2012. The programme was conducted by IIFM, 115
Bhopal, the institute engaged by TFDPC Ltd for providing consultancy service for the purpose.
The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Tripura, presided over the programme and other attended trainings were
1. Dr. Alind Rastogi, Managing Director, TFDPC Ltd. 2. Sri Achintya Kumar Sinha, Rtd. IFS, Ex-MD, TFDPC Ltd. 3. Dr. R B Lal, Director, IIFM, Bhopal 4. Prof. Manmohon Yadav, IIFM, Bhopal 5. Mr. Manu Jose Mattam, IIFM, Bhopal 6. Sri P. K. Das, CF, Forest Department 7. Sri P. Bhattacharya, CF, Forest Department 8. Sri Udhav Tripura, Executive Director, TFDPC Ltd. 9. Sri Debanuj Debnath, CS, TFDPC Ltd. 10. Sri Biplab Datta, General Manager, TFDPC Ltd. 11. Sri Alak Pal, Sr. Manager, TFDPC Ltd. 12. Sri Gautam Karmakar, Divisional Manager, South-I, TFDPC Ltd. 13. Sri Ratan Kr. Saha, Divisional Manager, South-II, TFDPC Ltd. 14. Sri Pulak Das, Divisional Manager, North, TFDPC Ltd. 15. Smt. Madhumita Som, Deputy Manager, TFDPC Ltd. 16. Dr. Abhinav Kant, incharge BCDI, Agartala 17. Dr. Ram Narayan Pandey, Consultant, BCDI, Agartala 18. Prof. Nirmalya Dasgupta, Asstt Professor, Tripura University 19. Sri Sanjib Narayan Dutta, Jr. Engineer, TFDPC Ltd. 20. Sri Siba Prasad Dey, Corporation Forester, TFDPC Ltd. 21. Sri Biswamani Debbarma, Corporation Forester, TFDPC Ltd. 22. Smt Soma Murari, Corporation Forester, TFDPC Ltd 23. Sri Dibyendu Debnath, Corporation Forester, TFDPC Ltd. 24. Sri Elvis Ucttoi, Corporation Forester, TFDPC Ltd. 25. Sri Ranjan Debnath, TFDPC Ltd. 26. Sri Manna Roy, President, BENU, Katlamara 27. Sri Tutan Biswas, member, BENU, Katlamara 28. Sri Pradip Debbarma, Sr. Assistant, TFDPC Ltd. 29. Sri Swapan Kr. Saha, Office Assistant, TFDPC Ltd.
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FSC TRG WS 2 April 11 2013
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel was organized in Paratia Guest House, Udaipur on 16.04.2013.Prof. Manmohan Yadav of IIFM Bhopal and Dr. Abhay Patil, CCF, were the Programme Directors.
For Factory Division, South-I & South-II Forest Division, Corporation OCs, Project Guards and some a few workers form RPCs where tree felling is to be done in near future have joined this Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training.
Another Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel was organized in Anmandanagar Industrial Estate on 11.04.2013.Prof. Manmohan Yadav of IIFM Bhopal and Dr. Abhay Patil, CCF, was Programme Directors.
Persons working in Supervisory posts and above posts in AIE and persons keeping and maintaining records in AIE have joined this Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training.
For Sadar & Northern Forest Division, Corporation OCs, Project Guards and some a few workers form RPCs where tree felling is to be done in near future have joined this Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training.
Programme Schedule
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel (frontline staff)
On
FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations At Anandnaga I.E TFDPC Processing
April 11, 2013
Programme Directors
Prof. Manmohan Yadav
Prof. A K Patil
Time Programme Resource Person (s) 9:30 – 10:00 Registration TFDPC Staff 10:00 – 11:00 Inaugural Session Welcome of the guests with flower bouquet
Welcome & Opening Remarks Dr. Alind Rastogi
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Introduction to the Workshop Prof. Manmohan Yadav Address by the Guest of honour Mr. Anil Kumar, Addl PCCF, Regional Office (FC) of MoEF, Shilong Vote of Thanks Prof. A K Patil 11:00 – 11:30 High Tea Guests & Participants 11:30 – 1:00 Concept and Essential Elements of Forest Prof. Manmohan Yadav Certification – FM and CoC certification 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at WS Venue 14:00 –15:30 Benefits of Forest Certification to TFDPC Prof. A K Patil 15:30 – 16:00 Tea 16:00 – 17:15 Preparation of TFDPC Limited for FSC Prof. Manmohan Yadav FM & CoC Certification 17:15 – 18:00 Discussions and Addressing Queries Prof. Manmohan Yadav, Prof. A K Patil, Mr. A K Sinha
118
FSC TRG WS 3 April 16 2013
Programme Schedule
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel (frontline staff)
On
FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations At Paratiya TFDPC Processing
April 16, 2013
Programme Directors
Prof. Manmohan Yadav
Prof. A K Patil
Time Programme Resource Person (s) 9:30 – 10:00 Registration TFDPC Staff Introductions Mr. Atanu Saha, DM, TFDPCL 11:00 – 11:30 High Tea Guests & Participants 11:30 – 1:00 Concept and Essential Elements of Forest Prof. Manmohan Yadav Certification – FM and CoC certification 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at WS Venue 14:00 –15:30 Benefits of Forest Certification to TFDPC Prof. A K Patil 15:30 – 16:00 Tea 16:00 – 17:15 Preparation of TFDPC Limited for FSC FM & Prof. Manmohan Yadav CoC Certification 17:15 – 18:00 Discussions and Addressing Queries Prof. Manmohan Yadav, Prof. A K Patil, Mr. Atanu Saha
Programme Director: Sri Abhay Kumar Patil, IFS, professor, IIFM, Bhopal.
Venue: Industrial Estate, Anandanagar
Date: April 16, 2013
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FSC TRG WS 4 Feb 28 2014
Programme Schedule
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel (frontline staff)
On
FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations At Santibazar, North Forest Division
28 February, 2014
Programme Director
Prof. A K Patil
Time Programme Resource Person (s) 9:30 – 10:00 Registration TFDPC Staff Introductions Mr. Anjan Kumar Sen, DM, Nort Division 11:00 – 11:30 High Tea Guests & Participants 11:30 – 1:00 Concept and Essential Elements of Forest Prof. A K Patil Certification – FM and CoC certification 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at WS Venue 14:00 –15:30 Benefits of Forest Certification to TFDPCL Mr. U. Tripura, ED, TFDPCL 15:30 – 16:00 Tea 16:00 – 17:15 Preparation of TFDPC Limited for FSC FM & Prof. A K Patil CoC Certification w.r.t. to FSC 10 principles and CoC requirements and outcome of FSC Prelim Asessment 17:15 – 18:00 Discussions and Addressing Queries Prof. A K Patil, Mr. U. Tripura, ED, TFDPCL and Mr. Anjan Kumar Sen List of Participants:
1. Sri U. Tripura, ED, TFDPC Ltd 2. Sri D. Debnath, CS, TFDPc Ltd 3. Sri R. K Saha,, Divisional Manager, South II 4. Sri A..K. Sen, Divisional Manager, South I 5. Sri Ranjan Kumar Debnath, Ex-EM, TFDPC Ltd 6. Sri Prajit Bhattacharjee, Ex-EM, TFDPC Ltd 7. Sri J.K. Dasgupta, Oc UBC Nagar
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8. Sri N. Das, o/c Batisha 9. Sri Subrata Pal, o/c Kalashimukh 10. Sri Tpan Chandra Sen, o/c Chittamara 11. Sri Ratan Chakraborty, South -1 Divisional office 12. Sri Rabindra Chakma, O/c, Centrifuging Factory, Takmachherra 13. Sri Ajit Tripura, PG, Takmachherra RPC 14. Sri Narayan Chandra Patoyari, PG, Matai RPC 15. Sri Priyatosh Mishra, Cr. Forester, Debdaru RPC 16. Sri Birmani Debbarma, O/c Takmachhera RPC 17. Sri Badal Deb, O/c Patichhari RPC 18. Sri Ranjit Cakroborty, O/c Paikhola 19. Sri J. Debnath, TCPS- Takmachherra 20. Sri Ramani MuraSingh, O/c Abhangchharra 21. Sri Khagendra Tripura, O/c Garifa RPC 22. Sri Priyatosh Debnath, TCPS-West Ladhua RPC 23. Sri Sujit Debbarma, PG, West Ladhua RPC 24. Sri Elvis Uchtoi,O/c Sanchrambari RPC 25. Sri Bidhubhushan Ghosh, O/c Ekinpur RPC 26. Sri Haripada Debnath, O/c Amlighat RPC 27. Sri Smar Tripura, Cr Forester, O/c Kathalchhari RPC 28. Sri Indubhushan Sur, Cr. Forester, O/c Baishanabpur RPC 29. Sri Keshab Chanda Bhowmik, O/c Paikhola RPC 30. Sri Subir Debnath, Paikhola RPC 31. Sri Nripendra Tripura, TCPS, Abhangchhara RPC 32. Sri Sadhucharan Tripura , Paikhola RPC 33. TCPS, Takamachherra RPC 34. Sri Shibaprasad Sey, O/c West Ladhua RPC 35. Sri M.C Majumder, O/c Sonaichhari RPC
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FSC TRG WS 5 March 03 2014
Programme Schedule
Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Training for TFDPC Ltd Personnel (frontline staff)
On
FSC FM & COC Certifications for TFDPC Plantations At TFDPCL Bhavan, Agartala
03 March, 2014
Programme Director
Prof. A K Patil
Time Programme Resource Person (s) 9:30 – 10:00 Registration TFDPC Staff Introductions Mr. U. Tripura, ED, TFDPCL 11:00 – 11:30 High Tea Guests & Participants 11:30 – 1:00 Concept and Essential Elements of Forest Prof. A K Patil Certification – FM and CoC certification 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at WS Venue 14:00 –15:30 Benefits of Forest Certification to TFDPCL Mr. Rameshwar Das, MD, TFDPCL 15:30 – 16:00 Tea 16:00 – 17:15 Preparation of TFDPC Limited for FSC FM & CoC Prof. A K Patil and Shri Achintya Certification w.r.t. to FSC 10 principles and CoC Kumar Sinha requirements and outcome of FSC Prelim Asessment 17:15 – 18:00 Discussions and Addressing Queries Mr. Rameshwar Das, Prof. A K Patil, Shri Achintya Kumar Sinha and Mr. U. Tripura, ED, TFDPCL and Mr. Debanuj Debnath
List of Participants
1. Sri U. Tripura, ED, TFDPC Ltd. 2. Sri D. Debnath, CS, TFDPc Ltd. 3. Sri B. Datta, GM, TFDPC IE 4. Sri Abu Taher, O/c, Matinagar RPC 5. Sri Dipak Kumar Deb, O/c Dhanpur RPC 6. Sri Tapan Kumar Nath, O/c Rowa RPC 7. Sri Birendra Chandra Deb, Estate Manager 8. Sri Mrinal Kanti Singha, Estate Manager 9. Sri Mnash Majumder, Cr Ranger 122
10. Md Abdul Malik, Cr Forester, O/c N.C. Para RPC 11. Md. Hanif, Cr Forester, O/c Saidarpar RPC 12. Sri Kajal Debnath, Cr. Forster O/c Bilthai RPC 13. Sri Manindra Debnath, Cr Forester, O/c Pathalia RPC 14. Shir Narayan Chandra Debnath, Cr Forester, O/C Bankumari RPC 15. Sri Rabiullah Bhuiyan, Cr. Foreter, O/c Anandapur RPC 16. Shi Chandra Kumar Debbama, Cr. Forester, O/c Brigudasbari RPC 17. Sri Nirmal Kanti Malakar, Cr. Forseter, O/c Nirbhoypur RPC 18. Sri Sri R. Bhattacharjee, Cr. Forester, O/c Sovapur RPC 19. Sri Debraj Sarkar, TCPs- Matinagar RPC
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Tripura Forest Development and Plantations Corporation Ltd
Plan for Responsible Rubber wood and Bamboo
Plantations Management (2013-14 to 2017-18)
TFDPC Bhavan, Abhoy nagar, Near Governor House, PO Kunjaban, Agartala, Distt west Tripura-799005 Tel: (0381)2354763 Fax: ( 0381)2359238, email: [email protected], website: www.tfdpc.com
Prepared in consultation with
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF FOREST MANAGEMENT P.B. No. 357, NEHRU NAGAR, BHOPAL 462003 INDIA http://www.iifm.ac.
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PART II
FUTURE MANAGEMENT DISCUSSED AND PRESCRIBED
Our Mission is to achieve the goals of responsible
management of plantations
Through commitments to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards of Forest Management and Stump-to-Gate Chain-of- Custody Certification
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CHAPTER I
BASIS OF PROPOSALS 1.1 General TFDPCL was created with the mandate to rehabilitate degraded forestland by raising plantations of rubber, citronella and bamboo for commercial management. The state government handed over the management of all the existing rubber, citronella and bamboo plantations created earlier by the Forest Department to TFDPCL. Due to the rather spectacular success of rubber, TFDPCL concentrated on rubber plantations making it the single largest rubber plantation estate in India. The Corporation was pioneer in developing a successful model for permanent settlement of tribal shifting cultivators through rubber plantations. As indicated in Chapter I, para 1.2, TFDPCL organized resettlement of 1133 shifting cultivator families belonging to Scheduled Tribes and also has engaged 70 Scheduled Caste families under different schemes and projects as an agency of the State Government. The corporation started creating new bamboo plantations only from 2011-12; and TFDPC has decided to extend bamboo plantation activity in the future. TFDPCL has been creating employment for about 6500 people directly and for an equal number of people indirectly, thus, becoming one of the most important social sector organizations in the State. TFDPCL generates, on an average, employment for casual workers in rural areas to the tune of 10 lakh (1 million) man-days every year. It currently manages around 9500 ha of commercial and rehabilitation rubber plantations as well as about 75 ha of bamboo plantations in the State. TFDPCL entered into industrial mode in the year 1994 and started diversifying its activities ever since. A brief description of the various industrial ventures of TFDPC is given below: i. Takmacherra Cenex Factory (TCF): A CENEX or rubber latex concentrating factory at Takmacherra RPC commenced production from 1994 with the capacity to produce 1000 MT of Cenex and 500 MT of byproducts (such as Estate Brown Crepe - EBC; Pale Latex Crepe PLC & Skim Crepe) every year. The unit provided jobs to 25 workers round the year. ii. Timber Treatment Plant (TTP): A Timber Treatment Plant was set up at the Anandanagar Industrial Estate of TFDPC (AIE) in 1996 for rubber wood with technical support from the Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehradun & funded under the World Bank Fund Extension Project. The capacity of the Timber Treatment Plant was enhanced from the original 7200 cubic feet (204 CuM approximately) to 24000 cubic feet (680 CuM approximately) per annum during 2005-06. iii. Unakoti Craft and Furniture Unit (UCFU): This unit is a very important part of the Anandanagar Industrial Estate of TFDPC (AIE). It was established with the objective of further adding value to the seasoned rubber-wood that was being produced in the Timber Treatment Plant & convert it into finished consumer 126
product – the rubber-wood furniture. Of the 125 skilled carpenters in the unit, advanced training in carpentry for manufacture of quality furniture from rubber wood was organized for 16 carpenters under an Indo-Italian Scheme implemented through ICFRE. Skill up-gradation trainings for rest of the carpenters were organised under the Swabalamban Scheme of the state government. A common facility centre (CFC) has been established in Unakoti Craft and Furniture Unit with high-tech wood working machines and tools at a cost of Rs.120 lakhs (12 million). North Eastern Council (NEC) contributed Rs.68.05 lakhs for the CFC and the rest was invested by TFDPC. The CFC became functional in November 2007, producing rubber wood furniture on a regular basis round the year. Twenty SHGs formed by 120 trained carpenters and two private entrepreneurs - M/s Woody’s and M/s Alamode - work with the CFC facilities in PPP mode on payment of cost of wood and rentals for machineries used for manufacture of rubber wood furniture and furnishings under the overall supervision of AIE authorities. iv. Tripura Rubber Wood Factory (TRWF): TRWF for production of Finger-jointed Edge-glued Solid Rubber-wood Board (FESRB) commenced commercial production on 25th July 2008. The investment for the TRWF was around Rs.800 lakhs (80 million). Machineries imported from Taiwan, China and Germany and indigenous components from Ludhiana and Kolkata were used for setting up the unit. Rubber Wood Boards (8 feet x 4 feet) of 12 mm to 38 mm thickness, and Beam of 16 feet length with width ranging between 4 inches x 3 inches to 6 inches x 4 inches are produced from the TRWF. Its production capacity is 40 boards per working day (single shift). v. Bamboo Furniture Unit (BFU): A Bamboo Furniture Unit using Muli Bamboo as raw material was set up in the Industrial Estate in the year 2007. TFDPC in collaboration and financial and other support from the JICA project of the State Forest Department trained all women SHGs in bamboo handicrafts and furniture making. Presently it functions as a regular wing of the UCFU, producing exquisite furniture and furnishings with bamboo and in combination with rubber wood (both sawn timber and finger-jointed boards) also. vi. Technically Specified Rubber (TSR) Factory: TSR Factory has been established for production of block rubber from coagulum produced from latex and all forms of scrap rubber. The bales usually weighing 25 kg are subjected to various tests before grading followed by wrapping in LDPE cover and packing in HDPE bags for marketing. This factory was commissioned at Takmacherra under Factory Division in 2012. vii. Door Manufacturing Factory (DMF): A Door Manufacturing Factory utlising rubber wood board as raw material is operational since 2012. The products of the Timber Treatment Plant and Tripura Rubber Wood Factory are utilized for making doors. These are polished and varnished in the finishing line spray booth.
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1.2 Objectives of Management: As can be appreciated from the forgoing descriptions that TFDPC has already established itself as an important catalyst in ecological, social & economic development of the State of Tripura. It is also obvious that it is undergoing expansion, both, in terms of production of raw materials & their value addition. In the process it has, not only, integrated backward & forward linkages of production of raw materials & their value additions very effectively; but also integrated various state, national & international schemes of socio-economic development of the vulnerable sections of the society in such imaginative & diligent manner that its net impact is unprecedented in the state. TFDPC has the potential to improve the socio-economic & ecological spheres of the state in an effective manner. Realizing this potential of TFDPC, it has rightly been envisioned that it will upscale its production & processing operations about five folds in coming five years in a sustainable manner.
Hence, in order to meet its vision, the broad objectives of management of rubber- wood & bamboo operations of TFDPCL can be described as under –
1. Rehabilitation of degraded forestlands of the State through rubber and bamboo plantations in a sustainable manner. 2. Sustainable Management of rubber & bamboo plantations of TFDPCL for production of raw rubber, rubber-wood & bamboo in marketable forms. 3. Promotion of eco-friendly rubber wood & its products to reduce pressure on natural forests. 4. Promotion and establishment of rubber latex & its value added products, rubber wood & bamboo based industries in the state for value addition & marketing for environmental stability & the socio-economic development of vulnerable sections of the society. 5. Implementation of Government schemes for rehabilitation & economic development of tribal shifting cultivators and other marginalized Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Caste (ST & SC) families through rubber & bamboo plantations.
Working Circles 1.2.1 Names of Working Circles
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It is evident from the foregoing paragraphs that two types of vegetations – rubber trees & bamboos – are being used to achieve the objectives of TFDPC. Hence, following two working circles are proposed to be formed for management of plantations to achieve the objectives of management: i. Rubber Plantations Working Circle; & ii. Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle 1.2.2 Rubber Plantations Working Circle This Working Circle covers an area of 7087 ha of the existing TFDPC funded rubber plantation (hereinafter termed as ‘TFDPC Plantations’) distributed in 38 Rubber Plantation Centres (RPCs) & 2448 Ha of rubber plantations raised by TFDPC with the funding of Tribal Welfare Department, SC Welfare Department & Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council of the State (hereinafter termed as ‘Welfare plantations’) distributed in 29 RPCs out of the 38 mentioned above. Thus, the total area of this working circle comes out to be 9536.11 Ha. The rubber plantations in this Working Circle will be managed under ‘Clear Felling with Artificial Regeneration’ silvicultural system.
1.2.3 Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle This Working Circle covers the existing pure bamboo plantations of TFDPC and overlaps the Rubber Plantation Working Circle also. The areas with slopes of 30 degree or higher of the Rubber Plantation Working Circle or such areas therein showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion (in parcels of more than 3 ha) will be planted with a suitable species of bamboo & managed accordingly. The gross area of this overlapping working circle including the existing 64 ha of pure bamboo plantations is 9599 ha.
1.3 Blocks and Compartments The total plantation area under TFDPCL is 9600.31 ha. The jurisdiction of TFDPCL (area of the State) has been divided in five Divisions. These divisions are treated as Blocks except Southern Division-I and Factory Division being clubbed together on consideration of size and facility of administration. Thus, the 4 Blocks are as under – 1. Northern Division. 2. Sadar Division. 3. Southern Division I clubbed with Factory Division and 4. Southern Division II.
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These 4 Blocks are subdivided into 38 compartments represented by 37 Rubber Plantation Centers (RPC). Maps of Blocks and Compartments are shown in maps annexed to this plan. The comprehensive Working Circle wise, division wise & origin of plantation wise area statement is given below – Table 1.1 Working Circle wise, division wise & origin of plantation wise area statement
Sl. Working Blocks TFDPC Plantation Welfare Plantation Division Wise No. circle Compartments & Area Compartments & Area Area (ha) 1 Rubber Northern 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 1, 2,3,4,5 =196.02 2150.61 Plantation Division 10, 11 = 1954.59 Ha Working Sadar 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 = 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11 2636.05 Circle Division 1243.70 ,12,13,14,15,16, 17 = 1392.35 Southern 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, NIL 3042.71 Division I & 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 = Factory 3042.71 Division Southern 1, 2, 3, 4 = 846.74 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 = 860.00 1706.74 Division II 38 Comp = 7087.74 Ha 29 Comp = 2448.37Ha 9536.11
Sl. Working Blocks Pure Bamboo Overlapping Area in Division Wise No. circle Plantations in TFDPC TFDPC & Welfare Area (ha) Compartments (Ha) Plantations (Ha) 2 Bamboo Northern 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 = 20.5 2150.61 2171.11 Overlappin Division g Working Circle Sadar 2, 3, 4, 5 = 20.00 2636.05 2656.05 Division Southern 1, 2, 5, 12, 14, 15 = 3042.71 3057.81 Division I & 15.10 Factory Division Southern 1, 2 = 8.60 1706.74 1715.34 Division II Total - 64.20 9536.11 9600.31
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1.4 Analysis and valuation of the crop: 1.4.1 Rubber plantations
The area under TFDPC plantations as in 2012-13 is 7087 ha. The average production of latex (DRC) is 484 kg per ha per annum. (Source -The Rubber Board: Ref. Part I; para 6.2.1). The average productivity of latex per tapping Block of TFDPC plantations is 920 kg per ha per annum (Ref. Table 6.1 in Part I). The standard spacing of rubber trees in these plantations is 10 ft X 20 ft (3 M X 6 M). Productivity per ha and per tapping Block should generally be at the same level if the stocking or density of the rubber plantations is normal/standard. Average yield of rubber wood per tree from these plantations is 0.25 cubic meter (Source-The Rubber Board: Part I, para 3.1.9.1) whereas the national average of volume of timber per matured rubber tree is 0.57 CuM. More details are recorded at para 2.2.
The standing volume of rubber wood of the trees which are due for felling in next 5 years (mostly matured or over matured) = 1,48,198 trees @ 0.5 CmT/tree =74,099 or 74,100 Cum. The going price of rubber wood logs in Agartala is Rs 35 per CFt or Rs 1225 per CuM. Thus, the valuation of this standing volume is about 74,100 CuM X 1225 Rs/Cum = 9,07,72,500 Rs.
1.4.2 Bamboo plantation
TFDPC has created bamboo plantations have been in 64.20 ha area from 2011-12 to 2012-13 as shown in the table below.
Table 1.2 TFDPCL Bamboo plantations under various Divisions wise Year Sadar North South I Factory South II Total 2011-12 3.00 13.30 0 1.00 3.10 20.40 2012-13 17.00 7.20 12.10 2.00 5.50 43.80 20.00 20.50 12.10 3.00 8.60 64.20 1.5 Period of Management Plan and necessity of Revision This is the first comprehensive management plan for TFDPCL & the plan-period is proposed to be 5 years. Prior to this, TFDPCL functioned on the basis of annual plans. The period of this management plan is proposed from 2013-14 to 2017-18.
Generally, the revision of this plan will be carried out after the completion of fourth year & after incorporating the feedbacks of these years. But, in case of any felt necessity, it could be revised before also with the concurrence of Forest Department of the state & the Regional Office of the CCF (FC), GoI. … … … o … … …
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CHAPTER II RUBBER PLANTATION WORKING CIRCLE 2.1. General Constitution This Working Circle encompasses the TFDPC Plantations as well as the Welfare Plantations. The gross area of this Working Circle is 9536.11 Ha. The area of this Working Circle will remain the same as the planting activity will entirely be in the form of replanting the area of existing rubber plantations felled only after they have lived their economically viable life for the production of latex. The use of area under this Working Circle will be subject to the following stipulation:
Parts of the coupe/replanting area with 30 degree or higher slopes or otherwise showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion will be set aside for bamboo plantation under the Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle, provided the area available at a stretch is not less than 3 ha; and natural regeneration will be encouraged and protected in the rest of such areas to enhance indigenous biodiversity.
2.2. General Character of Vegetation The existing area of TFDPC Plantations as in 2012-13 is 7087 ha. Similarly, the existing area of Welfare Plantations is 2448 Ha. The average productivity of latex (DRC) from rubber plantation of TFDPCL during 2007-08 to 2011-12 was 484 kg per ha per annum (Source-The Rubber Board: Ref. Part I; para 6.2.1). The stocking or density of the mature TFDPC Plantations due for felling in coming 5 years is about 40% of full stocking (ref. para 1.5.1).
These rubber plantations have been raised with two types of planting stocks – Seed origin & Clonal (grafted) origin. The plantations created in the initial years (around 1977-78) were from seed origin only. The rubber trees formed by seed origin seedlings, exhibit strong tapering tendencies in the clear bole part of the stem. Their latex yield is also less. On the contrary, the Clonal plantations show lesser taper & their latex production is high compared to the plantations raised by seedlings of seed origin. Rubber latex can be tapped from these trees in an economically viable manner from 7th year up to 28 to 32 years of age. Various factors of locality & tapping methods play important role in the
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yield of latex & also in the stage in the life of the trees after which the latex yield reduces rapidly & renders the plantation unsuitable for economically viable tapping operation.
The planting has been done at a spacing of 3.4M X 6.7M. At this spacing, the trees close the canopy after about 7 to 10 years of age & the canopy density is 0.8 to 1.0 wherever the survival percentage is more than 80%. Thus, a successful rubber plantation can save the soil from the onslaught of rain induced erosion. This factor assumes significant importance in the state as it receives significant amount of rain, especially during monsoon.
2.3 Special Objects of Management 1.3 The special objectives of management for this working circle are listed below: 1. Rehabilitation of degraded forestlands through rubber plantations. 2. Implementation of welfare schemes of central & state Governments for economic rehabilitation of tribal shifting cultivators and other marginalized Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Caste families through rubber plantation. 3. Management of the TFDPC Plantations as well as the Welfare Plantations for sustainable production of raw rubber in marketable forms & then for sustainable production of good quality rubber-wood for further value addition. 4. Promotion of eco-friendly rubber wood & its products to reduce pressure on natural forests. 5. Promotion and establishment of rubber latex, its value added products and rubber wood based industries in the state for value addition. 6. Socio-economic development of rubber plantation dependent communities with responsible management practices, helping them adapt to climate change & to achieve environmental benefits like carbon sequestration, soil conservation & protecting soil moisture as well from rubber plantations. 7. To adopt low impact plantation activities (e.g. soil conservation, biodiversity conservation etc) to ensure sustained supply of ecosystem services. 2.4 Area & Allotment Block wise allotment of area & the area & number of trees falling due for felling in the next five years under the Rubber Plantation Working Circle (both, in the TFDPC as well as in the Welfare Plantations) is shown in the table below.
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Table 2.1(A) Area Allotment & the area & number of trees due for plantation in the next 5 years in TFDPC Plantations Block Comp. Compartment Area Area & Trees due for felling in the plan period No. Name (ha) Area No. of Plantation Reason for Ha trees year felling Northern 1 Bilthai RPC 81.00 Division 2 Sailenbari RPC 153.20 3 Panitilla RPC 340.15 4 Juri RPC 295.25 82 8,350 1977 to Over matured 81 5 Rowa RPC 144.50 6 Ratachara RPC 208.50 95 14,457 1974 to Over matured 79 7 Nalkata RPC 73.25 32 3600 1981 Over matured & low productivity 8 N.C.Para RPC 191.25 93.5 12,430 1977 to Over matured 79 9 Golokpur RPC 139.90 10 Amarendra RPC 207.20 11 Saidarpar RPC 120.39 Total area of 1954.59 302.5 38,837 Block Sadar 1 Bankumari RPC 70.00 Division 2 Kalamchoura 347.00 16 907 1986-87 Low density RPC 3 Patahalia RPC 129.40 4 Anandapur RPC 114.30 5 Motinagar RPC 351.50 6 Sovapur RPC 41.50 7 Dhanpur RPC 46.90 8 Nirvoypur RPC 143.10 8 599 1994 Low density Total area of 1243.70 24 1506 Block
Southern 1 Abhangcherra 654.00 120 30,000 1984 Over matured Division I RPC & Factory Division 2 Sachirambari 414.25 142 33,750 1973 to Over matured RPC 83 3 Debdaru RPC 58.95
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4 Paikhola RPC 336.70 5 Chhittamara 186.40 5 1250 1988 Low density RPC 6 U.B.C. Nagar 84.00 9.4 2350 1988 Low density RPC 7 Ekinpur RPC 283.50 50 12,500 1986 Low density 8 Kalshimukh RPC 118.43 24 4,800 1976-77 Over matured 9 Motai RPC RPC 16.50 10 Batisha RPC 167.00 11 Chottakhol RPC 73.00 12 Haripur RPC 113.00 13 Sonaichheri 53.40 14 Takmachhera 389.23 75 11250 1980 Over matured RPC 15 Patichhari RPC 94.35 10.35 1700 Up to Over matured 1980 Total area of 3042.71 435.75 97,600 Block Southern 1 West Ludhua 403.49 63.8 9160 1978-79 Over matured Division RPC II 2 Garifa RPC 223.25 3 Baishnabpu RPC 189.50 8.5 1095 1986 Low density 4 Amlighat RPC 30.50 Total area of 846.74 72.3 10,255 Block Grand 38 7087.74 834.55 1,48,198 Total Similarly, Area Allotment & the area & number of trees due for plantation in Welfare Plantations are given below – Table 2.1 (B) Area Allotment & the area & number of trees due for plantation in TFDPC Plantations
Division Centre 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2016-17 Total /Block Area Area Area (Trees) Area (Trees) Area (Trees) Area (Trees) (Trees) (Trees) Northern - 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sadar East 55 (9,790) 60 (10,680) 32 (5,696) 20 (3,560) 7.50 (1335) 174.5 (31,061) Karangichera Padmanagar 0 0 31 (5,518) 40 (7,120) 13.25(2,358) 84.25 (14,996) West 0 0 0 0 30 (5,340) 30 (5,340) Karangichera Banbazar 0 0 0 0 0.96 (171) 0.96 (171) Southern I & - 0 0 0 0 0 0 Factory Southern II - 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 55 (9,790) 60 (10,680) 63 (11,214) 60 (10,680) 51.71 (9204) 289.71 (51,568) Volume CUM 4,895 5,340 5,607 5,340 4,602 25,784
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The year-wise & centre-wise details of area & number of trees due for felling in this plan period for TFDPC as well as Welfare plantations are given as Appendix – 1 & 2 respectively.
2.5 Felling/ Planting Series There are four planting series corresponding to the four Blocks; and the area falling due for felling & planting during the plan period is shown against each planting series in the table below.
Table 2.2 Felling/Planting series wise workable area Sl. Felling/Planting Series Compartments Area Area due for No. (ha) felling & planting(ha) 1 Northern Division 11 1954.59 302.50 2 Sadar Division 8 1243.70 24.00 3 Southern Division I & Factory 15 3042.71 435.75 Division 4 Southern Division II 4 846.74 72.30 Total 38 7087.74 834.55
2.6 Analysis and Valuation of the Crop It is described at para 1.5.1 of Part II.
2.7 Silvicultural System Clear felling followed by artificial regeneration is adopted as the silvicultural system for the Rubber Plantation Working Circle.
2.8 Exploitable Size and Rotation The time for harvest of rubber plantations is decided in practice more on economic considerations; that is when harvest of latex from a given area of plantation is no longer economically viable. Two criteria that are taken into account for deciding the time of harvest apart from the age of plantation are listed below:
a. Productivity of latex (DRC) less than 300 kg per ha b. Demand for rubber wood to meet the commitment of TFDPC Industrial Estate The period of rotation for these rubber plantations generally is 30 +/- 2 years. Thus, generally, the plantations are proposed to be felled when they reach 28 to 32 years of age. The size requirement of rubber logs for delivery to the Industrial Estate for conversion into sawn timber or solid wood boards is between 1 m to 4 m in length with mid-girth not less than 60 cm. 2.9 Calculation and Prescription of Yield The yield will be regulated by area in reference to Table 2.2 under para 2.5 above and keeping in mind the continuous requirement of rubber-wood logs of the conversion unit throughout the year. The capacity of production of treated sawn timber of the Timber Treatment Plant (TTP) in a single shift is 825 cum per year. The annual capacity of the Tripura Rubber Wood Factory (TRWF) in a single shift is 12000 boards of different
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thickness categories (para 3.1.9.7.2 of Part I) per year. The corresponding volume of 12000 boards at the average volume of 0.079 cum for each board works out to 948 CuM. Taking into account 37% conversion from wood logs to sawn timber under TTP, the corresponding requirement of wood logs for TTP per annum for single shift is 1154 cum; and that of TRWF, taking into account 27% conversion, is 3511 CuM (Para 3.3.2.1 & 3.3.2.2 in Part I). Thus, the combined capacity of TTP and TRWF for utilization of rubber wood logs per annum in a single shift is 4665 CuM. The AIE has therefore been functioning at 43% of installed capacity. TFDPCL will need to start working in two shifts during this plan period in order to utilize the projected production of 7951 cum wood logs per annum as worked out below. The yield under each Felling/Planting series by area is shown in the table below.
Table 2.3 Division-wise & Year-wise Yield for the plan period S No Year Division-wise Yield (@ 0.5 CuM/Tree) in CuM Northern Sadar Southern I & Southern Total Division Division Factory Division II Annual Division Yield 1 2013-14 2333.00 NIL 9730.00 1340.00 13403.00 2 2014-15 3295.00 NIL 9580.00 810.00 13685.00 3 2015-16 6864.50 NIL 9230.00 810.00 16904.50 4 2016-17 3702.50 NIL 9817.50 1070.00 14590.00 5 2017-18 3223.50 753.00 10442.50 1097.50 15516.50 Total 19418.50 753.00 48800.00 5127.50 74099.00
2.10 Selection of Coupes/felling areas Rubber trees are highly susceptible to damage by cyclone and high winds. Incidence of such damages is more common in mature plantations in Tripura; and these areas will be given priority for felling and replanting wherever there are rubber trees damaged due to gales or cyclones. Consequently compartment wise area of annual coupes under each Felling/Planting series will be decided and notified in advance by the Executive Director in consultation with the concerned Divisional Managers based on inspection reports of cyclone affected areas from all the four felling/planting series.
The year-wise & centre-wise details of area & number of trees due for felling in various years in this plan period for TFDPC as well as Welfare plantations are annexed as Appendix – 1 & 2 respectively. Normally, these plantations will be felled in the same year against which they have been shown. But, in the event of not being able to carry out the felling in the year of allotment, the fellings could be carried out in the next year with the prior approval of Managing Director, TFDPC. But, in case of advanced felling (felling the plantation before the year of allotment), the concerned Divisional Manager should send the proposal to the MD explaining the circumstances under which it has become necessary to do the felling in advance & seek prior approval. The MD shall award the approval after due scrutiny.
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2.11 Method of Executing Felling and Harvest The coupes for felling under this plan are old rubber plantations (more than 28 years of age, maintaining which for harvest of latex is no longer economically justifiable) or plantations damaged due to cyclone or other reasons. The rubber trees selected for felling are first of all subjected to ‘slaughter tapping’. The rubber trees shall be cut as close to the ground as feasible by cross-cut saws. After felling of the trees in a safe manner, de-branching of the stem will be carried out in such a manner that we get maximum volume of usable timber. The logs suitable for conversion should have length not less than 100 cm with girth 60 centimeters and above. The cut surfaces of these logs will be smeared, before dispatch, with a mixture of Boric acid and Borax as per guidelines for protection against termites and borers. The logs, after the initial treatment at the site of felling, will be dispatched to reach the industrial estate; preferably, within 24 hours of logging for processing; and in no case the time gap should be more than 5 days. Further details on processing are given at para 3.1.9.3 and 3.1.9.4 in Part I of this Plan.
It should be ensured that all existing non-rubber trees in the coupe excluding those on fire lines are retained and protected to sustain and promote biodiversity. It should also be ensured that minimum damage is inflicted on other trees during the act of felling, dragging & transportation.
Utmost care shall be practiced in ensuring that soil erosion is not caused due to clear felling. This can be ensured by not uprooting the stumps, doing the plantation as early as possible & ensuring cultivation of legume crops in the inter-space between the rows of planted seedlings.
Another important consideration is the continuous demand for timber round the year in the industries of TFDPCL. This situation is further complicated by the fact that rubber wood, if left untreated for more than 5 days, starts showing stains (dark patches) which reduces the quality of the sawn wood & furniture very drastically. Hence, ideally, after felling, the logs should be sawn & treated in the shortest possible time (preferably within 3 days). So, theoretically, there should be uniform felling in every week & month of the year followed by sawing, treating & seasoning. In the present situation, this cannot be done for obvious reasons. The monsoon lasts for about 5 months - from May to September - and is the longest season of the State. During this season; felling, logging & transportation operations cannot be carried out in a routine manner. So, in order to meet these challenges following steps will be useful –
1. The logging to treatment operations in the open season should be carried out in such a manner that there is a stockpile of sufficient raw material (seasoned rubber wood) at the onset of the monsoon so that the factory works do not suffer during monsoon season.
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2. In order to ensure this, the logging to treatment operations should be finished between 1st October & 30th April every year. In order to expedite the felling & logging operations, it is advisable to start the use of power chain saws. As, rubber wood is soft, a lot of speed in felling & logging can be achieved through the use of power chain saws. The staff & the workers should be trained in the use of power chain saws. 3. Currently, lot of timber is lost as the felling cuts are not made near the ground. This loss can also be minimized through the use of power chain saws. 4. To ensure this, the coupe operations (marking, inventorying, felling, logging, recording, stacking the logs near transportable points, preparation of fuelwood stacks, watch & ward, fire protection, preparation of extraction paths etc) should preferably be carried out by the technical field staff of TFDPCL & only the transportation work should be given to the contractors through tenders well ahead of time (i.e. the beginning of the open season). This will ensure that the dependency on contractors is reduced & the technical staff is engaged in the crucial job of felling & logging so that the wastage is minimized & efficiency of the operations is enhanced resulting in the factories getting continued supply of more rubber wood of better quality. 5. The time bound job targets that should be given to the coupe staff & the contractors can be as under – a. By 30 November – 35% stacking & 25% transportation b. By 31 January – 70% stacking & 60% transportation & c. By 31 March – 100% stacking & 90% transportation. The remaining 10% should be transported by the contractor before 10th of April. Otherwise, there is sufficient time with the TFDPCL to finish the job on its own before 30th of April (i.e. before the commencement of monsoon). The terms of the contracts for timber transportation (to be signed between the DM & the contractors) should be based on these timelines. In cases of failures, the contractors should be served with timely notices & be given warnings or punishments depending upon the degree of failures to meet the deadlines. Similarly, the performance of field staff should also be evaluated on the basis of these timelines. 6. Currently, the entire sawing, treatment & seasoning operations are concentrated in Anandpur Industrial Estate. The wastage of wood in the operations is also very high. Only, about, 20% of the total volume of timber logs transported to the factory site is converted into rubber-boards & furniture. Thus, the cost of transportation is very high. Hence, in order to curb this loss, the sawing to seasoning operations must be decentralized & kept near the areas of productions. Hence, it is recommended that the sawing, treatment & seasoning operations should be carried out in Udaipur, Kumarghat & Sarasima.
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All these three centers have Industrial Estates & sawing (or all the three) operations can be outsourced or carried out in PPP mode with existing saw mills. 7. Attempts should be made to maximize the efficiency of sawing operation in order to reduce the wastage of timber & to increase the yield of good quality sawn wood from the logs. This can be done through employing skilled cutters, imparting training to them & by giving them performance based incentives. Better monitoring & supervision will also pay the dividends. 8. It is observed in the present felling & logging operations that generally (almost in 40-50% cases) the lowermost log is not considered fit for sawing due to defects of faulty rubber tapping practices & hence is left in the coupe itself to be used as fuelwood. This amounts to considerable reduction in the sawn timber yield of the trees. In order to reduce this loss, the tappers should be trained to ensure least damage to the timber. If necessary, services of Rubber Board or Indian Institute of Rubber Research can also be sought in this regard.
2.12 Subsidiary Silvicultural operation As the rubber plantations are uniform aged, the harvesting will be done in clear-felling manner & restocking will be done with artificial regeneration (plantation), no subsidiary silvicultural operations are required to be carried out. But, sufficient care must be observed to protect the area from soil erosion due to heavy rains by resorting to low impact techniques like using the lops & tops of the felled rubber trees as mulch followed by planting of rubber seedling & cover crops as early as possible after the clear felling.
2.13 Method of Regeneration – Nursery and Plantation Technique 2.13.1. Rubber Nursery:
2.13.1.1 Germination of Seeds: Rubber seeds ripen during July to September; and as the seeds lose viability rapidly these are collected daily and quickly transported to nurseries for germination and transplanting.
2.13.1.2 Germination beds: For germination, raised level beds with a 5 cm thick layer of river sand, 90 cm wide and of convenient lengths are to be used. Partial shade should be provided to cut off the heat from the sun. Seeds are sown in a single layer touching one another and germination beds are kept moist, but not wet, by evenly sprinkling water during the morning and the evening. The seeds are covered with loosely woven gunnysacks. Germination commences between 6 to 7 days after sowing. Seeds sprouted each day are lifted and transplanted into seedling nursery beds. About 75 percent germination is considered to be good. Pickings are done for about 21 days after sowing. Tender roots emerge first from germinated seeds; and that is the ideal stage transplanting. These sprouts are delicate and are handled gently. Germinated seeds are carried to seedling nursery beds in buckets half filled with water.
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2.13.1.3 Seedling Nursery: Completely flat land must be avoided to prevent water logging during rains. The ideal slope is about 5 degrees. In case use of moderate slopes higher than 5 degrees becomes unavoidable, as in Tripura, the land is terraced, with bamboo edgings, wide enough to accommodate a normal nursery bed of 1 meter width, plus paths on each side to allow access to the beds. A steeper slope also means that laborers spend a good deal of energy climbing up and down.
Deep, well drained and fertile soil with abundant sun is preferred for nurseries. A reliable and adequate source of water supply is essential for nurseries. The ideal situation is where there is a perennial stream at a higher level than the nursery, and fairly close to it, so that water can be diverted from the stream to the nursery in high density polythene pipe (usually buried 15 cm deep). It is equally necessary to ascertain whether the water is used by other farmers for irrigation to avoid conflict. In most cases alternative sources like ponds already in existence or newly created by impounding rain water in the uplands or Mark II wells, etcetera are utilized as source of water for nurseries in Tripura. Diesel or electric pumps are used to draw water for irrigation. Nurseries are raised as close as possible to the area where plants are to be planted later to the extent feasible. It is sometimes necessary to construct a short access road or path to connect a nursery to the main roads. Ideally such access roads should be usable round the year.
Soil working is done to a depth of 75 cm and all stumps, roots, and stones are removed. Nursery beds are prepared with 100 to 120 cm widths and convenient lengths and with pathways laid in between to facilitate application of manure, watering, weeding etc. Planting distances varies according to the type of planting materials to be raised in the nursery. The ideal spacing for seedlings is 30 cm X 30 cm. For bud wood nurseries, the plants are arranged at 60 X 90 cm or 60 X 120 cm or 90 X 90 cm spacing.
Nursery management aims at the most rapid production of standard healthy planting materials. More intensive care can be exercised in a nursery than in a field. Plants which are obviously unsuitable can be eliminated at an early stage. Mainframe operations for nursery include weeding, mulching, irrigation during dry months, application of manure and control of disease and pest.
2.13.1.4 Budding: The principle involved in budding is the replacement of the shoot system of a plant with that of another more desirable plant. In this process, a patch of bark of the seedling plant (stock) is replaced by a patch of bark with a dormant bud (bud patch) taken from the clone to be multiplied. The bud patch gets attached to the stock permanently and becomes a part of it. The stock is then cut off above the budded portion and the grafted bud develops into a shoot (scion) exhibiting the characters of the plant from which it was taken. The new tree thus formed is a two-part tree, comprising a root system belonging to the stock plant and a shoot system contributed by the donor of the bud. Depending on the colour and age of the buds as well as the age of the stock plants 141
used, three types of budding are mainly recognized. These are brown (conventional) budding, green budding and young budding. In the first method, older buds having brown colour are used while in the other two, green tender buds are utilised. Depending on the part of the stock where budding is carried out, buddings are classified into four types: base budding, crown budding, over budding and high budding. Base budding is carried out at the base of the stock plant and includes brown budding, green budding and young budding.
2.13.1.5 Brown Budding: Brown budding is generally carried out by grafting brown coloured buds taken from bud wood of about one year's growth onto stock plants of 10 months or more growth. Vigorously growing healthy stocks having a girth of 7.5 cm at the collar region are ideal for budding. Stocks should be budded when the bark peels off very easily. Peeling is usually good when the top whorl of leaves is well developed, but before further extension growth commences. Test peeling of a small patch of bark above 15 cm from the base is the sure method to assess the peeling quality of the bark. Since all stock plants may not attain this stage at the same time, more than one round of budding may be necessary to cover all the stocks. Brown buds are usually obtained from brown bud wood produced by budded plants raised in bud wood nurseries. Buds found in the axils of fallen leaves are generally utilised for budding. Bud wood should be collected when the top whorl of leaves have fully expanded but not hardened to ensure proper peeling of the bark and high budding success. Test peeling may be carried out before harvesting the bud wood. Collection of bud wood should be done with sufficient care so as to avoid bruising. As far as possible, bud wood should be collected in the morning or evening, and should preferably be utilized for budding as soon as collected. If budding is delayed, special measures should be adopted for preventing moisture loss. Bud wood is harvested as per the requirement and cut into pieces of convenient length, usually 1 m. Good quality bud wood will have around 20 healthy, well formed buds per metre length. Weak and poorly formed buds should not be used. While handling bud wood of different clones, proper labeling has to be done for identification.
2.13.1.6 Budding process: Budding is usually carried out with a specially designed knife having two blades, called budding knife. However, an ordinary pen-knife with a blade of 7 to 8 cm length could also be used. The first step in the preparation of the stock plant for budding is thorough cleaning of the basal 15 cm to remove dirt, soil, etc. Cleaning can be done with cotton waste or rags. Then two parallel vertical cuts starting from about 2.5 cm above the collar are made. The length of these cuts should be a little more than 5 cm and 1.5 cm apart. Then a horizontal cut joining the bottom ends of the vertical cuts is also made. All the three cuts should be made deep enough to reach the wood. After making these cuts the latex is allowed to completely ooze out for a few minutes through the cuts. During this time the budder can mark a few more stocks in a similar manner. When the latex flow ceases, it is wiped off from the surface. The flap of bark separated by the three 142
cuts is then gently lifted with the aid of the knife and peeled upwards. Alternatively, the upper ends of the vertical cuts may be connected by the horizontal cut and the flap peeled downwards. The practice of removing the flap completely is also adopted. The exposed region is called the budding panel.
The bud patch used for brown budding should have a length of about 5 cm and a width of about 1.5 cm. For preparing the bud patch, two parallel vertical cuts having a length of 5 cm are made on the two sides of a bud, 1.5 cm apart. Then two horizontal cuts are made connecting the lower and upper ends of these cuts. A little time is allowed for the latex to ooze out. During this time, incisions are made around neighbouring buds of the same bud wood. When the oozing of latex stops, it is wiped off and the bud patch marked out by the four cuts is stripped off by gently pushing to one side.
After removing the bud patch from the bud wood, the inner side is examined carefully for the presence of the core of the bud, which appears as a slight projection. If it is not present, the bud patch should be discarded. The bud patch should be handled with utmost care so as to avoid any damage to the cambium. It should always be held at the edges without touching the cambium. Foreign matter like water, soil and sweat should not be allowed to fall on the cambium. Similarly exposing the cambium to strong sunlight or dry wind can result in its drying. All these can cause damage to the cambium. Damage to the cambium of the budding panel also should be avoided. The four edges of the bud patch are then slightly trimmed. The bud patch is then gently placed in the budding panel after lifting the flap. It should be placed in such a way that the bud is above the leaf scar and its inner side is in contact with the budding panel. Exposure of too much area of the budding panel around the bud patch is unfavorable for budding success. At the same time the edges of the bud patch and budding panel should not touch each other. After placing the bud patch in the budding panel in the above manner, the flap, if retained, is placed back over it and is then bandaged using polythene strips of 45 cm length, 2.5 cm width and 250 gauge thicknesses. Bandaging should commence at the bottom and move upwards in a close spiral. During the first few turnings of the bandage, the lower end of the flap should be kept gently pressed over the bud patch to prevent it from slipping. Bandaging should be tightened to keep the cambium tissues of the budding panel and the bud patch in intimate contact with each other. The end of the tape is finally kept intact with a knot. In the field and along borders of nurseries it may be necessary to shade the bud patch against strong sunlight. This can conveniently be done by tying a rubber leaf over the bud patch.
If the budding is successful, the cambium of the stock plant and that of the bud patch unite and the bud patch establishes as a part of the stock. The process requires 15 to 20 days and the plant is left undisturbed for 20 days after which the bandage is removed. The flap, if it had been retained, is cut a little above the upper end of the bud patch and
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removed. Freshness of the bud patch indicates initial success of the budding. The final success is ascertained in a similar manner after another 10 days.
2.13.1.7 Green Budding: Both the stock plant and bud wood used for green budding are very young. Seedlings which are five to seven months old are used as stock. Buds are collected from six to eight weeks old bud wood, also known as bud shoots or bud sticks. Buds found above the scale leaves of the shoots alone are used for budding. These buds are green in colour and hence the name green budding. Young, vigorous seedlings raised in nursery or in polythene bags are used as stock plants for green budding. Plants having a girth of about 2.5 cm at the base, with brown bark up to a height of about 15 cm, can be used for this purpose. The stock plants require about four to five months to attain this size. By proper care, this period could be further reduced.
Green bud wood is obtained from bud wood plants (source bushes) grown in nurseries for this purpose. They are collected when six to eight weeks old, when they have a length of 30 to 60 cm with a whorl of leaves at the top. The bud shoots are harvested by cutting at the base with a sharp knife. For proper peeling of the bud patch, harvesting should be done when the leaves are copper brown to dark green in colour. After harvesting, the leafy portion of the shoot is cut off. The non-leafy portion shows two to five scale leaves with auxiliary buds which are utilized for budding.
After cleaning the basal portion of the stock, two vertical incisions, a little more than 5 cm long and 1 cm apart are made starting from a point about 2.5 cm above the collar region. The lower ends of these cuts are joined by a horizontal cut and a few minutes allowed for the cessation of latex flow. The flap is then cut off leaving a short "tongue" of about 1.5 cm at the top. The stock is now ready to receive the bud patch.
The bud patch can be stripped from the bud shoot in the same way as in the case of brown budding. However, other methods can also be employed for this purpose. In one such method, a 6 cm long bud patch shaped like a pointed tower is marked out. Then the top 1 cm is separated from the bud shoot and holding on to this portion (by touching the inner and outer sides), the whole bud patch is gently stripped off. The top 1 cm of the bud patch with damaged cambium is pruned off. In a third method the bud patch along with a thin slice of wood is first taken from the bud shoot. This is the bud slip. The two sides of the bud slip are trimmed to the required width. The bud patch is then gently separated from the wood by pulling them apart. While doing so care should be taken to see that the bud patch does not bend. Only the slice of wood is bent. After separation, the lower and upper ends of the bud patch are also trimmed. When finally prepared, the bud patch should have a length of approximately 5 cm and a width of 1 cm, so that it fits snugly into the budding panel.
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The upper end of the bud patch prepared in the above manner is gently inserted under the `tongue’ and placed in the budding panel. Then the bud patch is secured firmly by bandaging with a transparent polythene strip as in the case of brown budding. This strip should be about 25 cm long and 2 cm wide. Transparent tape is insisted upon as it allows light to fall on the green bud patch which in turn enhances budding success. For the same reason, no shading is given. Buds are examined three weeks after the budding by observing through the bandage or after removing the bandage. Retention of the green colour is the indication of budding success. Final observation on budding success is done after 10 more days. If the observations are made through the bandage, after the second observation, the bandage is removed. The plant is now ready for cutting back.
2.13.1.8 Time for budding: Budding can be carried out at any time of the year. However, too dry or very wet weather is unsuitable. Generally more success is obtained during rainy season than in summer. Experiments have shown that in India the period from April to October is generally suited for brown budding. The success rate of green budding is more during summer months also. However, heavy rainfall is not suited for budding. For best results, budding should be carried out either in the early morning hours or in the evenings.
2.13.1.9 Brown Budded Stumps: Brown budded plant prepared for planting by pruning the stem and roots is known as brown budded stump. The ideal way to prepare a brown budded stump is to cut the stem of the plant at a height of about 7.5 cm above the upper end of the bud patch. The cut should have a downward slant of around 45o from the side of the bud to the opposite side. The plants are then pulled out and the taproot pruned to a length of 45-60 cm and the laterals to a length of 10-15 cm. While gripping the stem for pulling out the plant, special care should be taken not to exert any pressure on the bud patch. Otherwise there are chances for the bud to get damaged. In case it is found difficult to pull out the plant after cutting back the plant can be pulled out before cutting back and then pruned. If the budded stumps are intended for planting in polybags the taproot should be pruned to a length about 15 cm less than the height of the soil core. Rejection of defective plants, pruning of multiple taproots etc. are similar to those of seedling stumps. Brown budded stumps are hardy and hence a proper method of packing retains the viability for a longer time. The cut ends of the stem are first sealed with melted wax. The bud patch is protected by covering with a small piece of banana sheath or folded rubber leaf. For overnight storing, they are kept erect in water as in the case of seedling stumps. For retaining their viability up to three days and carrying over short distances they are tied into bundles and each bundle covered with banana sheath, grass or leaves. At the time of planting the protective covering of the bud patch is removed. For long distance transport of budded stumps involving preservation over a few weeks, advance cutting back of budded plants before pulling out should be avoided. The freshly cut back and 145
pruned budded stumps should have their cut ends sealed by molten wax and the whole stump given a light fungicide treatment. They are then packed in boxes with wet sterilized sawdust. 2.13.1.10 Green Budded Stumps: Green budded stumps are prepared from green budded plants in almost the same way as that of brown budded stumps. The major difference is that if cutting back is done before pulling out it should be done seven days before pulling out as green buds require lesser time for activation. Green budded stumps being comparatively tender and smaller with less reserve food stored in them, it is always preferable to plant them immediately after preparation. Packing methods adopted for green budded stumps are basically the same as that adopted for brown budded stumps. Protection to the bud patch can also be provided by retaining the polythene strip used for bandaging the bud patch at the time of budding. Standing in water enables preservation overnight. Additional steps like sealing of the cut end of root, tying into bundles and covering the bundles with grass etc. gives protection for two days. If packed in boxes with wet saw dust these could be safely stored up to six days and transported over long distances. 2.13.1.11 Polybag Nursery: Planting materials in polybags are raised by two different methods. Budded stumps are planted in polybag and the scion is allowed to develop till they are ready for planting in the field. In the other method, germinated seeds are planted in polybags and bud-grafted when five to six months old. The former gives greater opportunity for selection of the most vigorous plants and avoids wastage of bags containing poor seedlings and budding failures. The roots of budded stumps are treated with indolebutyric acid (IBA), a hormone which enhances root growth. Dipping roots in cow dung slurry before planting is also done wherever feasible to enhance root development. The bags may be of black or transparent polyethylene. Transparent bags, when used, are kept buried in soil so that development of roots may not be affected. Use of black polyethylene bags is generally preferred. Depending on the size of the plant to be produced, bags of different dimensions are used. Polythene bags of lay flat dimension 55 to 60 cm length and 25 to 30 cm width which hold about 8 to 10 kg soil are used for raising plants up to two to three whorls stage. For producing plants of six to seven whorls, larger bags of 65 x 35 cm size and holding about 23 kg soil are used. In order to facilitate drainage, sufficient number of holes is punched on the lower half of the bags. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) sheet of 400 gauge and 500 gauge thickness are used for making small bags and large bags respectively. Bags made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) sheets can are used for the purpose. However, such bags are likely to deteriorate when exposed to sunlight for long periods.
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Soil with good moisture and nutrient retention capacity is used for filling the bags to promote root development and to bind the roots firmly and prevent damage during transport. Soils with clay-loam texture, good structure and friability are considered ideal for this purpose. Fertile topsoil collected after removing the surface vegetation and leaf litter is ideal for filling the bags. Large clods of soil are broken before filling. The soil if too wet, is partially dried. Stones, roots and stubbles are removed from the soil. Bags are gently tapped while filling soil to ensure compactness and to ensure not to leave much of air space. Bags are filled up to about 2 cm below the brim. Powdered rock phosphate at the rate of 25 g for small bags and 75 g for large bags is mixed with the top layer of soil. The filled bags are kept in the nursery either in trenches or on the ground supported with wooden poles. The former method is better as it would give greater protection of the bags and better growth of the plants. Trenches having width equal to the diameter of the bag are usually dug in pairs. For small bags, depth of trench may be about 20 cm and the distance between rows in a pair of trenches 15 cm. The corresponding depth and distance for large bags are 30 cm and 20 cm. The gap between bags of same trench is 10 cm. Footpath of 75 cm width may be left between two pairs of trenches. After placing the bag in the trench, the excavated soil is filled in the gap between them. The remaining soil is mounted around the bags. Planting of budded stumps or sprouted seeds is undertaken thereafter. When budded stumps are used, the bud patch should face the footpaths to facilitate growth of sprouts. Regular cultural operations like manuring, watering, weeding, shading and plant protection are adopted. Application of NPK Mg 10-10-4-1.5 mixture is done at monthly intervals. During the first month 10 g of the mixture is given per bag which is gradually increased to 30 g in four months time. Fertilizer application should be avoided when the leaves are very tender. While applying fertilizer, care should be taken to prevent it from coming in contact with the young plant as it may cause scorching. Watering should be done soon after manuring. During dry periods, irrigation should be done regularly. Watering can be done manually in small nurseries while sprinklers or drip irrigation system is more economical in large nurseries. Too much watering should be avoided to prevent water logging. During summer months, partial shade may be provided to the plants by erecting overhead shade. Appropriate prophylactic and curative measures may be taken against diseases and pests. Poly bag plants are advanced planting materials which contribute to reduction in immaturity period. Bagged plants are transplanted to the field with minimum possible disturbance to the root system for proper establishment. Such plants also help in achieving a uniform stand and are also useful for vacancy filling and late planting. Because of these advantages the use of polybag plants has become very popular and TFDPC depends entirely on poly bag plants for creation of rubber plantation. While transporting poly bag plants utmost care is taken to prevent any damage to the soil core. If the soil core is damaged roots may break and consequently the plant will be
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deprived of all the advantages of bag planting. Transporting over a short distance is done by carrying them on the head or shoulder. Vehicles like lorry, truck, tractor, etc. are used for transporting over long distances. While transporting by vehicles, the bags are stacked on the platform tightly to reduce their swaying and shaking to the minimum. Providing shade for protection from hot sun is also desirable. The bag should always be kept in a vertical position while loading, unloading and transporting. Care is taken to avoid tearing of the bags as it also can increase the chances for breaking of the soil core. 2.13.1.12 Nursery Establishment: Nurseries are established and maintained for raising various propagation materials for planting. These include seedling stumps, budded stumps and advanced planting materials like polybag plants, stumped budding and soil core plants. Mother plants or source bushes for the multiplication of bud wood are also grown in nurseries. Raising plants is easier and cheaper in nurseries than in the main field. Moreover, nurseries offer an opportunity for selection of vigorous and uniform plants. Table 2.5: Area required for various types of nurseries Area required for various types of nurseries for producing planting materials necessary for 100 ha Planting material to Area required Density per ha No. of plants required for be produced Spacing(cm) (ha) 1 ha of main field Initial Final Effective Gross Budded stumps 30 x 30 111110 74074 500 0.675 0.750
Seedling stumps 30 x 30 111110 88000 550 0.625 0.695
Stumped buddings, 90 x 90 12350 9880 500 5.000 5.550 Maxi
Stumped buddings, 60 x 60 27775 22220 500 2.000 2.500 Mini
Polybag 2 - 3 whorls ------25000 500 2.000 2.500
Polybag 6 - 7 whorls ------18000 500 2.750 3.400
Source: The Rubber Board
2.13.1.13 Mulching: Mulching in nurseries is done following application of fertilizer and usually in the month of November to protect the seedlings from adverse effects of drought.
2.13.2 Planting of rubber: 2.13.2.1 Land Preparation: Rubber plantations are established in forest clearings. Trees from over matured rubber plantations are harvested for rubber wood and replaced by replanting. Most areas available for rubber cultivation are undulating and the extent of
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flat lands suitable for planting rubber is very limited in Tripura. It necessitates adoption of proper soil conservation measures before the onset of monsoon.
2.13.2.2 Clearing: The land to be brought under rubber cultivation is cleared of all vegetation. Large trees of economic value are removed first followed by felling and removing of smaller trees and slashing of the under growth. A light burn is given after felling and drying to facilitate planting. This also retards regeneration of weeds; but excessive cleaning and burning is avoided to prevent soil degradation and erosion.
Replanting old areas is planned when the latex yield falls and the plantation becomes uneconomic. The old trees are slaughter tapped with yield stimulant application before felling. Lining and digging of pits is started before felling of trees to save time.
2.13.2.3 Roads, Fences and Buildings: A well-planned network of roads and footpath is necessary for the easy transportation of inputs to the various fields, latex to the factory and for the efficient supervision of field operations. The roads should be preferably traced before the commencement of lining so that sufficient strip of land could be reserved. Sufficient provision is made for estate office, stores, processing factories and residential accommodations wherever feasible. The plantations are protected by erecting barbed wire fences to prevent cattle trespass. A programme has been taken up to provide boundary walls or strong wire fencing for each plantation centre prevents cattle trespass and to prevent pilferage. The area under temporary extraction paths shall be planted as early as possible to avoid soil erosion.
2.13.2.4 Lining: Lining or staking is done based on plant spacing and planting density to be adopted. Rubber is planted by adopting square or rectangular planting system. Square planting is used for level and near level lands. Rectangular system is adopted in flat lands and slopes. In rectangular planting the lines are oriented in the East West direction to intercept maximum sunlight. Contour lining is done in undulating and hilly areas where the slope exceeds 8 per cent. Here the planting points are marked as lines passing through points of the same elevation. The planting density recommended is 420 to 500 plants per ha in the case of buddings or plants proposed to be field budded and 445 to 520 plants per ha in the case of seedlings.
Table 2.6: Density of Plants under Different Terrains and Planting Materials
Density of Plants under Different Terrains and Planting Materials Planting material and terrain Spacing (meter) Stand/ha Budding: in hilly areas 6.7 x 3.4 445 in flat area:
Square 4.9 x 4.9 420 Triangular 4.9 x 4.9 470
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Seedling: in hilly areas 6.1 x 3.0 539 in flat area: square 4.6 x 4.6 479
2.13.2.5 Terracing: On hilly and undulating terrain, cutting of terraces along the contour is a general practice to conserve moisture and prevent erosion. The soil on the hill side is cut from a distance of 60-75 cm in front of the planting row and thrown back in such a way that the terraces so formed will have a width of 1.25 to 1.5 m and an inward drop of 20-30 cm. Steps of uncut earth are left out at intervals along the terraces to check lateral flow of water. For economy, planting on hillside is often done on square platform of size 1.25 x 1.25 m (honey comb terrace) during the year of planting and later on joined together to form a complete terrace.
2.13.2.6 Construction of Silt Pits and Contour Bunds: TFDPCL has introduced preparation of silt pits (trenches) of about 120 cm length, 45 cm width and 60 cm depth along the contour at suitable intervals to check erosion and to conserve water in a limited scale. Pits are generally dug at the rate of 150-250 per ha depending on the degree of slope in a way that the pits in the adjacent inter-rows are in a staggered manner.
2.13.2.7 Pitting and Refilling: Pitting is necessary to provide an ideal medium for the proper growth of the young rubber root system. The standard size of the pit is 75cm x 75cm x 75cm. The size of the pits varies depending upon the planting material used. Smaller pits are sufficient for small and medium sized polybag plants.
Pitting is started early and filling is completed well in advance of planting so that the filled soil may get sufficient time to settle. While digging, the topsoil is kept on one side and the subsoil on another side. Filling is done with the top fertile soil as far as possible. The organic manure and phosphatic fertilizers applied to the pits is mixed with the top 20 cm soil in the pit. The pits are filled to about 5 cm above ground level. A peg is placed in the centre of the pit to locate the planting point.
2.13.2.8 Field Planting: The success of planting depends on the prevailing weather conditions, quality of the planting material used and the care with which the planting operation is done. Continuous wet weather is expected during May-July in Tripura and hence this period is considered ideal for planting rubber. Planting in Tripura is now done almost entirely with polybag plants.
2.13.2.9 Polybag Planting: Polybag plants of which the top whorl of leaves is fully mature are selected for planting. The soil around the bag is removed and the bags are taken out of the trench. Lateral roots and taproot, if grown out of the bags, are excised. Then they are carried to the planting points. Planting holes slightly bigger than the size of the bag are made. The bottom of the bags is completely cut and then the bag along with the plant
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is inserted into the planting hole. A vertical cut is made at the bottom of the plastic sleeve, taking care not to damage the roots. Then the cut is continued upwards as the hole is gradually filled so that the cylinder of soil is unbroken. When the hole is partially filled, the bag is slit along its full length and carefully pulled away. The soil is finally packed firmly around the plants. While planting, the scion of the polybag plants should be directed towards north east to minimize the adverse effect of direct sunlight on the bud patch.
2.13.3 Aftercare: After planting, the plants are inspected at regular intervals and false shoots sprouting from the stock are removed and only the vigorous bud shoot is allowed to develop. Any side shoot developing up to 2.5 m from the ground level are removed. Four rounds of weeding will be done manually during the first two years of planting. Cover crops planted simultaneously with rubber will get established by the third year smothering the weeds in between the rows. More attention is, therefore, necessary to give more attention to weeding in the planting strips or terrace; while restricting the weeding in the inter-row space to selective control of noxious weeds and slashing of bushy weeds. Three rounds of weeding is recommended during the 3rd and the 4th year. By the end of the fourth year weed growth will be greatly reduced due to growing canopy cover of rubber trees; and a single round of weeding mainly on the planting strips may be carried out during the 5th and the 6th year.
2.13.4 Cover Crops:
2.13.4.1 General: The undulating topography coupled with the high rainfall in Tripura make the light upland soils particularly vulnerable to erosion. In order to conserve soil and improve soil fertility cover crops are grown and maintained. Leguminous ground cover enhances the growth and yield of rubber. The advantages of cover crops are manifolds as shown below.
2.13.4.2 Advantages of Cover Crops
Cover Crops’ nursing shade advantage coupled with the high rainfall in Tripura results in improved soil fertility & reduced wind damage especially when the plantations are young.
2.13.4.3 Common Leguminous Cover Crops for Rubber Plantations in Tripura
2.13.4.3.1 Pueraria phaseoloides: This is a very popular and the most widely used cover crop in rubber plantations of Tripura. It is a vigorous twiner and creeper and forms a dense thick ground cover when established. It can withstand strong sun and smother weeds. It is propagated through seeds and cuttings. Seed rate is about 3.0 to 4.5 kg per ha. A disadvantage is that it is grazed by cattle unless afforded protection.
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2.13.4.3.2 Mucuna bracteata: It is a deep-rooted fast growing legume with moderate drought resistance and shade tolerance. A native of Tripura, it forms a thick luxuriant cover and suppresses all weeds. The dried leaves form thick mulch and are less palatable to cattle. Propagation of Mucuna bracteata is through seeds and rooted cuttings. The seeds are comparatively big and the seed rate is 200 g/ha. Fruits are covered by stinging hairs. However the plant does not bear fruits in low elevation situations of Kerala. Fruit set is copious in winter conditions of Tripura.
2.13.4.3.3 Other cover crop species: The other two known species of cover crops - Calopogonium mucunoides and Centrosema pubescens - are rarely used in Tripura; and out of the two recommended species Mucuna bracteata, being a local species, shall be the first choice.
2.13.4.3.4 Establishment of Cover Crop: Cover crops are generally established from seeds. However, P. phaseoloides and M. bracteata can also be propagated by stem cuttings.
2.13.4.3.5 Pre-Treatment of Seeds: Seeds of cover crops have very hard seed coat which delays or inhibits germination. Therefore pre-sowing treatment is done to ensure uniformity and higher percentage of germination. This also helps in reducing the toxic compounds present in the seed coat, which inhibit the nodule forming bacteria.
2.13.4.3.6 Common Pre-Treatments:
2.13.4.3.6.1 Acid Treatment: Seeds are treated with concentrated sulphuric acid for a period of 10 minutes for P. phaseoloides and 30 minutes for M. bracteata. The seeds are put in a glass or any other acid resistant container and stirred after adding sufficient concentrated sulphuric acid. The seeds thus treated are placed in a large container having cold water and washed well to remove the acid completely. Acid treatment may adversely affect Centrosema pubescens seeds. Acid treated seeds are stored under dry conditions for about 10 days.
2.13.4.3.6.2 Hot Water Treatment: This method is suitable for the seeds of P. phaseoloides and C. mucunoides. The percentage of germination may not be as high as in acid treatment. Hot water treatment is carried out by soaking cover crop seeds in hot water at 60 - 80oC for a period of 4 to 6 hours before sowing.
2.13.4.3.6.3 Abrasion Treatment: Abrasion treatment is done by mixing the seeds with sand (about 1-2 times the quantity of seeds) and then grinding them gently in a mortar. Scarification of seeds by rotating in drums lined with sand paper can also be adopted. After treatment, the seeds may be soaked in water overnight before sowing.
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2.13.4.3.6.4 Preparation of Beds: Seeds or cuttings of cover crops are planted on raised beds prepared in clean weeded areas in between rubber rows. About 420 beds of 1.2 x 1.0 m per ha are prepared immediately after the pre-monsoon rains. It is preferable to raise them immediately after clearing the area for planting, and in the case of replanting, one year ahead of planting, if possible, or soon after felling the old stand of rubber so as to reduce the cost of weeding.
If cuttings are used, fresh cuttings two or three feet long are planted when frequent rains are available during the month of June or July. On the other hand, if seeds are used, they are sown in prepared patches during May after the pre-monsoon rains. This practice ensures proper establishment of the cover crop before the drought season commences.
2.13.4.3.6.5 Sowing of Cover Crop Seeds: Pre-treated seeds mixed with equal quantity of rock phosphate are sown in rows or in equidistant patches between plant rows. The planting patches should be clean weeded and forked well.
2.13.4.3.6.6 Manuring of Cover Crops: Application of rock phosphate alone or in combination with muriate of potash is very useful for the quick establishment, easy maintenance and efficient nitrogen fixation. Powdered rock phosphate (18% P2O5) @ 165 kg. per ha is applied in two equal splits, the first one month after sowing and the second two months after the first application. In areas where the soils are known to be deficient in available potassium, application of a mixture of 165 kg of rock phosphate and 50 kg of muriate of potash is recommended. In either case, it is enough to broadcast the fertilizers on the strips where the cover crops are planted.
2.13.4.3.6.7 Control of Cover Crops: Cover crops established in patches will spread very rapidly and cover the intervening spaces, smothering the weeds in most cases within a year. Cover crop should not be allowed to grow in a circle of about 2 metres diameter around the plants or along the contour terraces for 3 to 4 years to prevent its competition with juvenile rubber plants.
2.13.5 Mulching, Shading and Whitewashing:
2.13.5.1 General: Mulching or covering the plant basin with dry leaves, cover crop cuttings, grass cuttings, paddy straw etc is a recommended practice in rubber plantations to protect soil in the immediate vicinity of the plants from direct impact of heavy rains and sunlight causing soil degradation. Dried African Payal (Salvinia sp.) also can be effectively used as mulch at the rate of 5 kg per square metre (sun dried material).
2.13.5.2 Benefits of Mulching
* Improvement of water and plant nutrient holding capacity of the soil
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* Maintenance of the soil around young rubber plants in a cool and moist condition during summer months
* Multiplication of microbial population of the soil, ensuring better nutrient availability * Protection of the soil from beating effect of heavy rainfall resulting in soil erosion * Control of weeds around the plant bases During the year of planting young plants may be protected by shading before the beginning of summer. Plaited coconut leaves or used gunny bags can be used for this purpose. The brown bark of the young plants can be protected from the scorching action of the sun by whitewashing the main stem of the plant from the second year of planting. This may be continued till canopy of the plants develops and partially shades the plantation. However, plants on the roadsides may need whitewashing for a longer period as they are more exposed to sunlight. Whitewashing can be done using lime or china clay. 2.13.6 Protection of Young Rubber Plants from Sun Young rubber plants in the field and nurseries are highly susceptible to scorching resulting from exposure to strong sun. The incidence is more on southern and southwestern aspects. Mulching and shading help prevent sun scorch in nurseries. In the field too, mulching and provision of bamboo or plaited coconut leaf tree guards afford same protection in this regard. From the second year onwards, young plants in the field may be protected by whitewashing brown portions of the main stem. This is done by the beginning of the dry weather that is during November–December. For white washing, fresh lime is used by TFDPCL. China clay may also be used, but fresh lime is a better choice. 2.13.7 Fertilizer Application 2.13.7.1 General: Most of the upland soils available for planting by TFDPCL in the state are highly degraded and deficient in soil nutrients due to repeated shifting cultivation. The organic carbon status of the soil is in the medium range. Availability of phosphorus and potassium are generally low but the available magnesium is high. Based on these, a separate fertilizer recommendation with slightly higher levels of N, P and K formulated by the Rubber Board for the North Eastern region is accepted as the norm by TFDPCL. Table 2.7 Schedule during the initial period of immaturity (up to fourth year) Schedule during the initial period of immaturity Dose of NPK Quantity of mixture per ha Year of Month after Time of mixture per plant with 440-450 plant points planting planting application Std (g) (kg) 12-12(6)-6 12-12-6 12-12(6)-6 12-12-6
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2-3 weeks Apr - May 280 --- 125 --- 1st year* 3 months Sep - Oct 500 --- 225 --- 9 months Apr - May 500 --- 225 --- 2nd year 15 months Sep – Oct 500 --- 255 --- 21 months Apr - May --- 600 --- 270 3rd year 27 months Sep - Oct --- 600 --- 270 33 months Apr - May --- 475 --- 215 4th year 39 months Sep – Oct --- 475 --- 215 2.13.7.2 Fertilizer for plantations from the fifth year to tapping stage: For areas where the plant bases were mulched during the initial years and where leguminous cover crops were established and maintained properly, 35 kg of N, P and K per ha are recommended from 5th year up to the tapping stage. A total 350 kg of NPK 10-10-10 mixture will be required for one ha for one year in two split applications can be supplied through straight fertilizers as Urea 75Kg, Rajphos 200 Kg and Murate of Potash 60 Kg in two equal splits. For plantations where no mulching was carried out during the initial years and no legume ground covers were established, NPK, 75, 50, 30 kg/ha in two split applications during pre and post monsoon period is recommended. 500 kg of 15-10-6 NPK mixture is required for supplying the required nutrients can be supplied through 160 Kg Urea, 275 Kg Rajphos and 50 Kg Murate of potash in two splits. 2.13.7.3 Fertiliser for Mature Rubber under Tapping: The general recommendation for mature rubber is 35 kg each of N, P and K per ha. This can be supplied through 350 kg of NPK 10-10-10 mixture or by mixing 76 kg of urea, 195 kg of rock phosphate and 58 kg of muriate of potash. 2.14 Thinning Rubber trees do not require any thinning schedule. However, as and when some rubber trees get suppressed in the natural process due to vigorous growth of canopy of the others around or they get damaged beyond adequate recovery, those are felled and removed for the better health of the crop.
2.15 Choice of Clones Planting materials approved by the Rubber Board are classified into three categories as described in para 2.2.9 and Table 2.4 of Part I of this plan; and this includes an exclusive selection for the North Eastern Region. TFDPCL utlised RRIM 600 of Category I for about 82% of the planting made so far. Only 2 clones from the 9 selection in Category II recommended for the North Eastern Region – RRII 105 and GT1 – were used for the remaining 18% of the planted area (para 5.2.4.1.1 of Part I).
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The Rubber Board recommends planting of not more than 50% of Category I and three or more clones from the Category II. It is important to follow this prudent guideline to introduce intra-species diversity as a shield against possible spread of disease that may reach epidemic levels. Simultaneously, it is advisable to plant about 5 to 10 % plants of seed origin in every plantation to ensure genetic diversity.
2.16 Requirement of Nurseries 2.16.1 General: Plantations will be raised with poly bag seedlings. With the usual spacing of 21 feet X 11 feet or 6.7 X 3.4 m, the requirement of poly bag seedlings is 445 per ha; and taking into account an initial mortality of 10% that is 45, the requirement per ha on any year for the current year’s planting will be 490. Considering 5% mortality for the creation of plantation for the previous year for an equal area, the requirement in any year during this plan period will be 490 + 22 = 512 poly bag plants. Thus, with the annual target of 200 ha of replanting the requirement of poly bags will be 512 X 200 = 102400. Poly bag seedlings will be raised accordingly, suitably distributed in Central and Field nurseries. In this regard the norms of area requirement for nurseries are shown in Table 2.5 above.
2.16.2 Involvement of SHG: TFDPCL will involve and support SHGs from rural households for establishment of rubber nurseries in the Decentralized People’s Nursery (DCPN) Mode. TFDPCL will promote formation, wherever necessary, of new SHGs with youth members of families of TFDPC workers or from other rural households in the vicinity of its Rubber Plantation centres for establishing rubber nurseries with buy back guarantee according to agreed terms and conditions through MoUs to be executed between TFDPCL and SHGs. TFDPCL will organize free hands-on-training of SHG members on rubber nursery management. The SHG will be constituted among the processing workers.
2.17 Miscellaneous Regulations Fire line: A strip of 2.5 meters should be cleaned of all vegetation except standing trees all round the newly created rubber plantation and maintained as a fire line. This strip will be cleaned regularly of dry leaves and other dry matters by use of spade periodically and by sweeping every day during the dry months.
Conservation Areas & Water Bodies: Natural areas including tree groves will be protected as conservation areas for biodiversity. Similarly, conservation of water bodies will also be treated with due priority. Employees and workers of TFDPCL may be encouraged to form SHGs to manage these water bodies for multiple uses and services including environment friendly low intensity fish cultivation without restriction or compromise of the right for use the water bodies for irrigation or any other requirement of TFDPCL. Detailed information is included in Chapter IV of Part – II (Management Plan for High Conservation Value Forests).
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2.18 Cost of creation and maintenance of immature Rubber Plantations is given in the Appendix – 4 (Part I of this document). 2.19 Reducing the Ill-effects of Prescriptions on the Environment and Eco-System The areas of general concern on the impact of the Rubber Working Circle are addressed hereunder:
2.19.1 Low impact management of Rubber Plantations
i. No new rubber plantations have been prescribed in this plan. New rubber plantations envisaged under this plan will be only through replanting of older plantations after their clear felling when they are economically unviable for rubber tapping.
ii. Secondly, a Bamboo Overlapping Circle has been created in order to plant bamboo in slopes exceeding 30 degrees and in other areas showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion within old rubber plantations after the rubber trees are harvested.
iii. Retention and protection of all non-rubber trees existing within older rubber plantations and on the fire lines.
iv. Creation of shelter belt with indigenous species including fruiting trees and others of utlility, e.g. Kathal (Artocarpus heterophyllus); Chamal (Artocarpus chaplasa), Mritinga Bamboo (Bambusa tulda); Barak bamboo (B balcooa) and Makal bamboo (B pallida). The shelter belt will be raised around each replanting area lying along the boundary of fire lines.
2.19.2 Reducing Adverse Impact of Road Construction & Other Soil Disturbing Activities:
Prior to conducting site disturbing activities, the site supervisor shall prepare maps, of sufficient scale and detail, in which primary and secondary roads, skid trails, landings, large drainage structures, watercourse crossings, buffer zones, and conservation areas are identified. TFDPCL and its contractors shall use the maps in the planning and implementation of management activities and demonstrate a working knowledge of the protection guidelines against soil erosion and, shall systematically implement them in day-today operations. The temporary extraction paths shall also be brought under plantation as early as possible. In general also, due care shall be exercised to ensure minimum soil disturbance or erosion.
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CHAPTER III
BAMBOO OVERLAPPING WORKING CIRCLE 3.1. General Constitution This Working Circle covers the existing pure bamboo plantations of TFDPC and overlaps the Rubber Plantation Working Circle. The areas of the Rubber Plantation Working Circle with 30 degree or higher slopes or other lands therein showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion shall be planted with suitable species of bamboo in parcels of contiguous areas more than 3 ha each. The gross area of this overlapping working circle including the existing 64.20 ha of pure bamboo plantation is 9600.31 ha.
3.2. General Character of Vegetation The existing pure bamboo plantations consist of recent creations and the major species planted are Paora (Bambusa polymorpha), Kanak kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri) and Rupai (Dendrocalamus longispathus). Out of the 64.20 ha of bamboo plantation, 20.40 ha was created in 2011-12 and 43.80 ha in 2012-13.
3.3 Special Objects of Management The special objectives of management for this working circle are listed below: 1. Rehabilitation of steep slopes (more than 30 degrees) in the Rubber Plantation Working Circle through bamboo plantations. 2. Management of pure bamboo plantations of TFDPCL for sustainable production of bamboo. 3. Socio-economic development of members of SHGs engaged in manufacture of bamboo furniture and handicrafts through their training and capacity building. 4. Promotion of bamboo production & bamboo based handicraft & industries in the state for socio-economic & environmental development of the state. 5. Planned substitution of chemical fertilizers in bamboo plantation activity by organic manure according to the strategy recorded in Part II, para 2.13.7.4. 6. Socio-economic development of bamboo dependent communities with responsible management practices, helping them adapt to climate change
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& to achieve environmental benefits like carbon sequestration, soil conservation & protecting soil moisture as well from bamboo plantations.
3.4 Choice of species Kanak Kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri), Muli (Melocanna baccifera), Paora (Bambusa polymorpha) and Rupai (Dendrocalamus longispathus) are the chosen species of bamboo for planting. , Kanak Kaich is selected because of its demand for the handicrafts and Furniture Unit of TFDPCL for making of furniture and other interior decoration products. Muli has been selected for its market value and for ite importance in soil conservation and stabilization of hill slopes. It is the principal bamboo species for livelihoods of people in Tripura. It also is an important industrial bamboo. Paora and Rupai have been selected for their use in furniture and handicrafts and also because these 2 species were planted by TFDPCL since 2011-12. Traditional and other uses of these bamboos have been described in para 3.1.11.3 & 4 and para 2.3.3 in Part I of this plan.
3.5 Method of planting Kanak Kaich (Thyrsostachys oliveri) will be propagated by artificial regeneration using rhizomes. Paora (Bambusa polymorpha) and Rupai bamboo will be raised as containerized seedlings (poly bags). As regards Muli (Melocanna baccifera), the strategy is discussed at para 3.5.2 below.
3.5.1 Kanak Kaich bamboo The essentials of the planting technology are as follows:
3.5.1.1 Site clearance by mid-February
3.5.1.2 Freshly collected rhizomes are used as planting material
3.5.1.3 Rhizomes for planting are collected from 2-3 year old culms
3.5.1.4 Spacing for planting is 1m X 1m involving 10000 plant points
3.5.1.5 Pits of the size of 30 cm cubes are readied by the fourth week of February; and the top 15 cm soil is stacked on the uphill side and the rest on the opposite
3.5.1.6 The pits and the dug up soil is subjected standard anti-termite treatment before filling up
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3.5.1.7 Pits are filled up bottom soil first followed by the top soil after weathering for seven days after mixing with fertilizer based on soil test and advice from the ICFRE Center for Forest based Livelihood and Extension Centre, Agartala
3.5.1.8 Action will be taken under this plan to introduce organic fertilizer from the 2nd year of the plan with the target to achieve 10, 20, 35 and 50 per cent replacement during the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and the 5th or the last year of the plan respectively as per strategy recorded at para 2.13.7.4.
3.5.1.9 Rhizomes are planted by end March or the first week of April
3.5.1.10 Rhizomes are planted in filled up pits leaning at 45 degree towards north for better results
3.5.1.11 The rhizomes should be covered with soil mounding at a radius of 30 cm raised up to 25 cm.
3.5.1.12 Weeding is in 2 rounds once in June-July and another in August – September.
3.5.1.13 Casualty replacement is done June –July along with the first weeding.
3.5.1.14 2 rounds of weeding is done on the 2nd year in June-July and August- September; and earth mounding is done in June.
3.5.1.15 Two rounds of weeding is done on the 3rd year in June-July and August- September along with another round of earth mounding in June.
3.5.2 Muli bamboo Muli is usually grown from seeds. Muli bamboo was so widespread and abundant in Tripura that need for its planting was not considered seriously. It is only after the gregarious flowering in Muli that occurred in Tripura during 2002-03 to 2007-08; that initiatives were taken by the Forest Department for creation of Muli bamboo plantations by using the large fruits as planting material. Even without creation of artificial plantation, Muli would have re-established its dominance within 5-6 years from the peak period of flowering; but it did not due to a combination of shifting cultivation, grazing and large- scale planting of rubber in most of the erstwhile Muli bamboo areas. Considering the immense value of Muli for saving the ravaged hills of Tripura and livelihood of its people and its proven potential for industrial application; promoting this species is now a priority. Precisely for this reason Muli has been chosen for propagation under TFDPCL.
There is no reliable source at the moment for alternative planting material of Muli bamboo. There was, however, a study on “In-vitro growth and multiplication of Berberis sp. and Melocanna baccifera (Roxb.)” in FRI University, Dehradun by Abhinav Kant (2009). In view of this TFDPCL should approach ICFRE and the National Bamboo Mission to 160
collaborate on priority for generating reliable planting material in plantation scale for Muli bamboo, one of the most important plant species for large parts of the north eastern region, particularly Tripura. The annual area targets for Muli as prescribed at para 3.5.4 will be kept on hold till planting material for the species in plantation scale is available; and till then the area earmarked for Muli will be planted with Kanak kaich.
It is, therefore, not necessary to discuss the plantation technology at this stage; and that may be obtained from ICFRE/NBM depending on the kind of planting material available.
3.5.3 Paora and Rupai bamboo The essentials of the planting technology are as follows:
3.5.3.1 Site clearance by mid-February
3.5.3.2 Seedlings in poly bags will be used as planting material
3.5.3.3 Spacing for planting is 4.5 m X 4.5 m involving 494 plant points
3.5.3.4 Pits of the size of 50 cm cubes are readied by the fourth week of February; and the top 15 cm soil is stacked on the uphill side and the rest on the opposite
3.5.3.5 The pits and the dug up soil is subjected standard anti-termite treatment before filling up
3.5.3.6 Pits are filled up bottom soil first followed by the top soil after weathering for seven days after mixing with fertilizer, based on soil test and advice from the ICFRE Center for Forest based Livelihood and Extension Centre, Agartala.
3.5.3.7 Action will be taken under this plan to introduce organic fertilizer from the 2nd year of the plan with the target to achieve 10, 20, 35 and 50 per cent replacement during the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and the 5th or the last year of the plan respectively as per strategy recorded at para 2.13.7.4.
3.5.3.8 One year old poly bag seedlings are planted during the rainy season.
3.5.3.9 Seedlings are planted after carefully cutting out the polythene bag without damage to the seedling or the root system. Discarded polythene bags should not be left in the plantation area and those should be appropriately disposed of for recycling.
3.5.3.10 The seedlings should be planted covering up to the collar with soil.
3.5.3.11 Weeding is in 2 rounds on the 1st year once in June-July and another in August – September.
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3.5.3.12 Casualty replacement is done June –July along with the first weeding.
3.5.3.13 2 rounds of weeding is done on the 2nd year in June-July and August- September; and earth mounding is done in June.
3.5.3.14 2 rounds of weeding is done on the 3rd year in June-July and August- September along with another round of earth mounding in June.
3.5.4 Species wise break up for planting Species wise share of bamboo planting will be 40% for Kanak kaich, 20% for Paora, 20% for Muli and 20% for Rupai. Site selection for this purpose will be done based on habitat requirement of each species to the extent feasible. Rupai (Dendrocalamus longspathus) occurs naturally in moist hill slopes. As regards the other three species – Kanak kaich, Paora and Muli - the habitat requirements are recorded in Table 2.5 under para 2.3.3 of part I of the Plan. In the matter of planting Muli planting as per the annual target will be kept on hold till planting material at plantation scale is available and till then, the annual area earmarked for Muli will be planted with Kanak kaich as indicated in para 3.5.2 above.
3.6 Area & Allotment Block wise allotment of area under the Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle is shown in table 3.1.
Table No. 3.1 Block-wise allotment of area under Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle Sl. Working Blocks Pure Bamboo Overlapping Area in Division Wise No. circle Plantations in TFDPC TFDPC & Welfare Area (ha) Compartments (Ha) Plantations (Ha) 1 Bamboo Northern 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 = 20.5 2150.61 2171.11 Overlappin Division g Working Sadar 2, 3, 4, 5 = 20.00 2636.05 2656.05 Circle Division South Div I 1, 2, 5, 12, 14, 15 = 3042.71 3057.81 & Factory 15.10 Division Southern 1, 2 = 8.60 1706.74 1715.34 Division II Total - 64.20 9536.11 9600.31
3.7 Planting Series There are four planting series corresponding to the four Blocks (divisions); and the workable area is estimated at an average rate of 5% (rounded off to the nearest ten Ha) of the TFDPC as well as Welfare plantations. The share of such Workable area for each Block/Planting series is shown in the table below.
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Table 3.2 Planting series wise workable area Sl. Planting Series Compartments Area Workable area (ha) No. (ha) 1 Northern Division 11 2150.61 110 2 Sadar Division 8 2636.05 130 3 Southern Division I & Factory 15 3042.71 150 Division 4 Southern Division II 4 1706.74 90 Total 38 9536.11 480 But, out of this likely available area, only 50 Ha per year is planned to be planted. Thus, 250 Ha of area shall be treated with bamboo plantations in the plan period.
The details of existing bamboo plantations per division are given below -
Table 3.3 Bamboo plantation (ha) as in 2012-13 Year of Northern Sadar Southern Factory Southern Total planting Division Division Division I Division Division II 2011 -12 13.30 3.00 0 1.00 3.10 20.40 2012-13 7.20 17.00 12.10 2.00 5.50 43.80 Total 64.20
3.8 Analysis and Valuation of the Crop As mentioned in Table 3.3 above, the pure bamboo plantations have been created very recently. So, currently, they are not of much economic importance.
3.9 Silvicultural System and Exploitable age Bamboo will be planted in areas with 30 degree or more slope and other sites in the Rubber Plantation Working Circle showing evidence of accelerated erosion provided the area available in one compact plot is not less than 3 ha. The silvicultural system adopted is the Standard Bamboo Working System wherein four year old culms will be harvested every year starting from the 4th year of planting. In case of Kanak kaich a considerable portion of the yield is obtained from three year old culms required for development of some products.
3.10 Planting schedule New planting will commence from 2013-14 to 2017-18 at the rate of 50 Ha per year & division wise distributed is shown in table 3.4.
Table 3.4 yearly planting of bamboo in bamboo overlapping working circle Sl. No. Planting series Area (ha) 1 Northern Division 15 2 Sadar Division 10 3 Southern Division I & Factory Division 15 4 Southern Division II 10 Total 50
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3.11 Calculation and Prescription of Yield 3.11.1 Yield by area: The yield will be regulated by area. The area available for harvest in reference to Table 3.3 and 3.4 above separately for Kanak Kaich bamboo (that is ready for harvest from the 3rd year) and other species of bamboo is shown below in hectares: 1. 2013-14: Kanak Kaich:- 0; Others:- 0; Total:- 0 2. 2014-15: Kanak Kaich:- 0; Others:- 20.40; Total:- 20.40 3. 2015-16: Kanak Kaich:- 20; Others:- 64.20; Total: 84.20 4. 2016-17: Kanak Kaich:- 40; Others:- 94.20; Total: 134.20 5. 2017-18: Kanak Kaich:- 60; Others:- 124.20; Total: 184.20 3.11.2 Yield in number of culms: The yield in numbers of culms in case of Kanak Kaich bamboo (based on the “Management plan for ‘Kanakkaich’ bamboo plantations of Katlamara, Tripura” by IIFM records) is given below. The following yearly yields are for 315.5 Kanis (6.25 kanis make one hectare): 2000: 212750
2001: 207400
2002: 285940
This works out to an average annual yield of 2, 35,363 culms per ha per annum from the 3rd year onwards.
Yield in number of culms for Rupai and Paora bamboo per year according to a documentation by the Forest Research Division (reference: Table 6.2 under para 6.2.3 in Part I of the Plan) are as below:
Harvesting year Rupai Paora 3rd 0 0 4th 3465 1485 5th 3465 1485 6th 3980 1980 7th 3980 1980 This works out to an average annual yield of 3723 culms and 1733 per ha per annum respectively for Rupai and Paora bamboo from the 4th year onwards.
No assessment for Muli bamboo is taken into account at this stage in view of the stipulation at para 3.5.2 above.
3.11 Selection of Coupes/Planting sites Planting sites for bamboo will be selected within coupes under the Rubber Plantation Working Circle. The criteria for selection will be as under:
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3.6 Slopes of 30 degrees and above
3.7 Hill slopes less steeper than above shall be considered for planting, provided there is visual evidence of accelerated soil erosion
3.8 Minimum area of the sites fit for planting will be 3 ha in compact blocks.
3.12 Method of Executing Felling For harvest of mature bamboo culms, following are the general guidelines -
a. Culms of 4th year for Muli and 3rd to 4th year for Kanak kaich are to be harvested
b. There shall not be any harvest during May to October and the operation must be completed before emergence of new sprouts
c. Cutting shall proceed from as near the centre as possible opening outward in a horse shoe of V shape except in case of Muli Bamboo; for which there would not be any such restriction.
d. Selected culms shall be cut at the third inter node from the collar level to prevent drying and rotting affecting the rhizomes.
e. Administer a neat single slanting cut with a sharp instrument to ensure minimum cavity for accumulation of water
f. Care shall be taken to ensure that no damage is caused to any live rhizome
g. Harvested bamboo culms shall be bundled height and girth range wise for immediate dispatch for preservative treatment prior to use for value addition or marketing as such
3.13 Thinning No thinning is required.
3.14 Subsidiary Silvicultural operations a. Loosening of the soil shall be done during summer around the clumps in case of Kanak Kaich and on the outer edges of Muli runners.
b. Soil mounding, 15-20 cm around each clump shall be done prior to emergence of rhizomes for kanak kaich bamboo.
c. Broken, too small and otherwise defective culms shall be removed once in a year during conduct of other operations.
3.15 Fencing Strong barbed wire fencing is an essential primary requirement for establishment of any bamboo plantation in Tripura, as there is no other way to keep away cattle grazing freely
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in plantation areas (para 1.5.2). Attempts will also be made to impress upon the herdsmen the importance of protecting these plantations from the onslaught of the grazing cattle. The owners of the cattle, who are the members of the Joint Forest Management Committees, will also be encouraged in protecting these plantations.
3.16 Cost of creation and immature maintenance of Kanak Kaich
It is given in the Appendix – 4 (Part I of this document).
3.17 Miscellaneous Regulations Fire Protection: A strip of 2.5 meters should be cleaned of all vegetation except standing trees all round the newly created rubber plantation and maintained as a fire line. This strip will be cleaned regularly of fallen leaves and other debris by use of spade once in a month and by sweeping every day during the dry months.
3.18 Effect of Prescriptions on the Environment and Eco-System Creation of bamboo plantation in Tripura is by itself an eco-friendly initiative. Some more eco-friendly initiatives under the Bamboo Overlapping Working Circle are listed hereunder:
3.18.1 Plantations of bamboo will be done in steep slopes & erosion prone areas in Rubber Plantation Working Circle. Existing plantation areas only are used. Bamboo leaves are good fodder for the herbivorous wild life as well as for the cattle.
3.18.2 Bamboo plantation will be created only in slopes of 30 degrees and above and other areas showing evidence of accelerated soil erosion.
3.18.3 Prescriptions provides for a judicious mix of several species of bamboos & retention and protection to all indigenous trees existing within existing rubber plantations and on the fire lines.
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CHAPTER IV Management of High Conservation Value Forests and other Sensitive Areas
4.1 HIGH CONSERVATION VALUE FORESTS TFDPCL as a responsible corporation is committed to manage its rubber plantations on the globally benchmarked sustainability principals and standards of FSC (Forest 166
Stewardship Council). The TFDPCL rubber plantations have been raised on degraded forest lands for the benefit of the local communities as per federal and state government rules. Some of the plantations blocks fall in the periphery or inside the protected area which was notified as such in 1987. Thus, in order to evaluate the applicability of and adherence to the principal 9 of the FSC standard that relates to High Conservation Value Forests, an analysis of the same has been carried out as under. High Conservation Value Forests (HCVF) according to WWF “are forests of outstanding and critical importance due to their high environmental, socio-economic, biodiversity or landscape values.” According to Principle 9 of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), “Management activities in high conservation value forests shall maintain or enhance the attributes which define such forests. Decisions regarding high conservation value forests shall always be considered in the context of a precautionary approach.” There are six categories of HCVFs covering both ecological and social values as below: HCV 1: Globally, regionally or nationally significant concentration of biodiversity values. HCV 2: Globally, regionally or nationally significant large landscape-level forests. HCV 3: Forest areas that are in or contain rare, threatened and endangered ecosystems. HCV 4: Forest areas that provide basic services of nature in critical situations (e.g. watershed protection and erosion control). HCV 5: Forest areas fundamental to meeting the basic needs of the local communities. HCV 6: Forest areas critical to local communities’ traditional cultural identity. 4.2 RUBBER PLANTATIONS WITHIN PROTECTED AREAS Some rubber plantations of TFDPCL continue to exist within one Protected Area (PA); and some had been raised in close vicinity of another PA. An area of 70 ha of rubber plantation in mouja Uttar Charilam under Uttar Charilam Tehsil in Bankumari RPC of Forest Corporation Division, Sadar is situated within the notified area of Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Clouded Leopard National Park. 4.3. SEPAHIJALA PROTECTED AREA 4.3.1 Rubber Plantation within PA: Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary was notified in 1987 over an area of 18.53 sq.km under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 vide Notification No F.8 (50)/For-WL/86/55164 dated 2nd February 1987 of the Forest Department, Government of Tripura. The notification became effective from the date of
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its publication in Tripura Gazette on the 12th February 1987. An area of 5.08 sq. km of core area of the Sanctuary was notified subsequently as Clouded Leopard National Park vide Notification No F.8 (196)/For-WL-2004/NP/43308-23 dated 27/02/2007 and No.F.8(196)/For-WL-2004/NP/35856-86 dated 24/01/2008. The particulars of the 70 ha of rubber plantations within this PA are shown in the table below: Table 4.1: Old rubber plantations of TFDPCL within Sepahijala PA Year of Area Tehsil Mouja Khatian Sheet CS Plantation ( ha) No. No. Plot No. 1973 20.00 Uttar Uttar 672 4 1276/1277 Charilam Charilam 1974 10.00 Do Do 672 4 1268/1269 1976 6.00 Do Do 672 4 1267/1268/1269 1981 6.00 Do Do 672 4 1276 1983 20.00 Do Do 672 4 1269 1996 2.00 Do Do 672 4 1276 1997 2.00 Do Do 672 4 1269 1998 4.00 Do Do 672 4 1277/1269 Total 70.00
Figure 4.1:Map of Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary
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4.3.3 Identification of HCVs: The checklist developed by ProForest has been used to identify HCVs for Sepahijala PA: Table 4.2: Working checklist for identifying HCVs within a forest HCV (or HCV element) Present or Sources of Information Absent? HCV 1 Globally, regionally or nationally A. Consultation with: significant concentrations of biodiversity 1. Dr. Alind Rastogi, Ex- values MD, TFDPCL HCV1.1 Protected Areas Present 2. Shri Rameshwar Das, HCV1.2 Threatened and endangered species Present MD TFDPCL HCV1.3 Endemic species Absent 3. Sri Amit Debbarma, HCV1.4 Critical temporal use Absent Wildlife Warden, HCV2 Globally, regionally or nationally Absent Sepahijala; significant large landscape level forests 4. Sri A. K. Bhowmik, HCV3. Forest areas that are in or contain Absent Director, Sepahijala rare, threatened or endangered ecosystems Zoological Park HCV4. Forest areas that provide basic services 5. Biswajit Acharjee and of nature in critical situations Pritish Deb, members HCV4.1 Forests critical to water catchments Absent of Eco-Development HCV4.2 Forests critical to erosion control Absent Committee of HCV4.3 Forests providing barriers to Absent Sepahijala WLS destructive fire 6. Dr. Sourabh Deb, HCV5. Forest areas fundamental to meeting Absent Asstt. Professor, basic needs of local communities Forestry & HCV6. Forest areas critical to local Absent Biodiversity, Tripura communities’ traditional cultural identity University B. PA Records
The fact is that the concerned site is part of a protected area notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act (4.3.1). This PA is home of Phayre’s Leaf Monkey (Trachypithecus phayrei), which is an ‘endangered’ species according to the IUCN Red list of threatened species. Of the four other primate species found in this Protected Area three, namely Capped Langur (Trachypithecus pileatus), Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis) and Pig Tailed Macaque (Macaca nemestrina) are all ‘vulnerable’ species according to the IUCN Red list. The PA also is the home of Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) another ‘vulnerable’ species according to the IUCN Red list. Based on these facts and the checklist above the PA is identified to possess HCV.1.1 and HCV.1.2 values. 4.3.4 Impact of rubber plantation on the PA: The forest floors under the commercially managed rubber plantations in the PA support minimal ground vegetation. Frequent
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visits by managers and prolonged activities by plantation workers for maintenance including application of fertilizers and regular harvest of latex have potential to create un- desirable disturbances within the PA. It is a fact that in Sipahijala PA, young rubber shoots form a part of the diet of Phayre’s Leaf Monkey during the dry season. The normal diet of Phayre’s Leaf Monkey in the wild, however, consists of both young and mature leaves, ripe and unripe fruits, seeds, petioles, flowers, and gums of a variety of naturally occurring tree species. As per its management plan, the PA harbours 29 species of mammals, 130 of birds, 6 of amphibians and 27 species of reptiles according to the PA records. The PA authorities so far identified 22 trees, shrubs, etc other than rubber providing food for various wild mammals in the PA. These rubber plantations however, cannot provide either food or the essential hide out and privacy for many other wildlife species including the threatened species like Phayre’s Leaf Monkey in the PA. 4.3.5 Mitigation of impact on PA: From the discussion as above, the commercially managed rubber plantations located within the PA are not favorable for many of the threatened and endangered species in the PA. It is, therefore, recommended to replace these rubber plantations in phases by suitable indigenous plant species including trees, shrubs and other vegetation as a measure of eco-restoration for enhancing the habitat quality of the PA. 4.3.6 Eco-restoration by PA authority: TFDPCL will, therefore, hand over the area currently under rubber plantations (over 70 ha) located within the PA for management by the Wildlife Warden, Sepahijala for the purpose as mentioned in para 4.3.5. This transfer of area will take place in phases as and when the rubber plantations are felled as per the management plan. The TFDPCL and Wildlife Warden, Sepahijala would jointly prepare a felling schedule of rubber trees to carry out logging of rubber trees and transportation of logs for conversion, value addition and marketing. Thereafter these blocks will be replanted with local species as per the existing management plan and will be managed as part of Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Clouded Leopard National Park under their respective jurisdictions. The TFDPCL will cease control of these areas for commercial purposes after the removal of the rubber plantations. 4.4 OTHER SENSITIVE AREAS
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4.4.1 Categories of sensitive areas: There are three categories of sensitive areas within the TFDPCL estate other than the HCVFs already discussed. The rubber plantations falling within the foraging range of bisons of Trishna Sanctuary are one such category. Degraded natural areas including tree groves, where commercial plantations could not be done due to inhospitable slopes and/or broken and highly erodible topography forms another category. The third category includes several water bodies created mostly by raising earthen bunds on the narrow valleys to tap and store rain water from the upper catchment for conservation. These water bodies have been put to multiple uses; but they are also relatively fragile and vulnerable. The three categories are dealt with hereunder separately. 4.4.2 THE RUBBER PLANTATIONS IN CLOSE VICINITY OF TRISHNA SANCTUARY: Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary was originally constituted for a smaller area in 1987 vide Notification No.F.8 (50)-For-WL-86-55165 dated 02/02/1987 under the provision of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Subsequently, another Notification No F.8(50)-For-WL-88-Vol- II/39253/ dated 18/11/1988 was issued increasing the area of the sanctuary to 194.708 sq. km. The PA lies between 230 -12’ to 230 -12’ North latitude and 910 – 15’ to 910 -30’ East longitude. An area of 31.63 km in the core zone of the sanctuary with good forest cover was notified in 2009 as Bison National Park vide Notification No- F8 (196)/For-WL- 204/NP/V-2/5503 dated 9th June 2009. The particulars of the 73 ha of rubber plantations lying outside the PA but within the foraging range of Indian Bison (Gaur) therein, are shown in the table below: Table 4.3: TFDPCL Rubber plantations within the foraging range of Gaur from Trishna PA Year of Area ( ha) Tehsil Mouja Khatian CS plantation No. Plot No. 2007 41.00 Siddhinagar Bhairavnagar 1B/64, 1B/81 1154, 965 2008 17.50 Siddhinagar Bhairavnagar 1B/81 1154, 965 & 1128 2009 14.50 Siddhinagar Bhairavnagar 1B/64 1154 Total 73.00
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4.4.2.1 Impact of rubber plantation on the PA: Frequent visits by TFDPCL personnel and workers engazed for weeding, application of fertilizer, etcetera for the aforesaid 73 ha of immature rubber plantations of TFDPCL in Bhairavnagar mouja can be potential disturbance for the herd of bison from the PA visiting the area for food. This could potentially lead to man-animal conflict. 4.4.2.2 Mitigation of impact on PA and TFDPCL: In order to ensure free movement of the herd of Gaurs and keeping in view the fact that the rubber plantations raised over the affected area of 31.50 ha cannot be managed for commercial gain within the Gaur habitat, TFDPCL will withdraw from this area of 31.50 ha & will hand it over to the State Government for appropriate use. Figure 4.2: Map of Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary and Chottakhola Rubber Plantation
4.4.3 NATURAL AREAS INCLUDING TREE GROVES: These are plots of degraded forests with naturally occurring trees in patches along with shrubs and other vegetation that were not planted with rubber due to inhospitable slopes and/or broken and highly erodible topography. The state is in the Bio-geographic zone of 9B-North-East Hills and is endowed with rich natural biodiversity. Further, being situated in the Indian Sub-region 173
of Oriental Zoo-geographic regions, local flora and fauna has several floral and faunal components of the Indo-Malayan and Indo-Chinese sub-regions. The generally degraded natural areas including tree groves described herein above still hold remnants of this unique biodiversity. The total area of this category of land is 580.88 ha distributed in 11 centers under 4 Divisions as per breakup provided in the table below: Table 4.4: Centre and Division wise breakup of Natural areas including tree groves Division Sl. Centre Centre wise area Total area No. (ha) (ha) North 1 Juri 5.00 Total of North 5.00 South-I 1 Paikhola 5.00 2 Chittamara 1.00 3 Motai 121.00 4 Batisha 3.00 5 Haripur 387.00 Total of South-I 517.00 Factory Division 1 Takmacherra 30.18 Total of Factory 30.18 Division South-II 1 West Ludhua 20.10 2 Gorifa 4.55 3 Baishnabpur 3.55 4 Amlighat 0.70 Total of South-II 28.70 Grand total 580.88
The Red Data Book on Indian Plants published by Botanical Survey of India contains data of more than 650 species considered rare and endangered. At least 15 of such species recorded from Tripura are known to be Rare or Threatened. The details are given in table 4.5.
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Table 4.5: Rare and Threatened Taxa of Tripura S.No. Name of the Species Family Distribution 1. Begonia surculigera Beginiaceae Unokoti 2. Colona flagrocarpa Tiliaceae Sakhan, Tlangsang 3. Ophiorrhiza viillosa Rubiaceae Kumarghat, sipaijala 4. Torenia mucronulata Scrophulariaceae Ghorakappa 5. Tournefortia roxburghii Scrophulariaceae Sabroom 6. Jasminum listeri Oleaceae Jampui ranges 7. Wallichia caryotoides Arecaceae Baramura and Atharamura ranges 8. Cycas pectinata Cycadaceae Baramura range 9. Podocarpus neriifolius Podocarpaceae Lalijuri 10. Gnetum montanum Gnetaceae Teliamura 11. Gnetum oblongum Gnetaceae Silachari 12. Mangifera sylvatica Anacardiaceae Telimura and Ambasha 13. Dischidia benghalensis Asclepiadaceae Tripura 14. Dischidia nummularia Asclepiadaceae Tripura 15. Dischidia major Asclepiadaceae Tripura
4.4.3.1 Management of Natural areas including tree groves: As most of the balance area in the TFDPCL estate had been converted into pure rubber plantations; these natural areas including tree groves which stand as islands of natural biodiversity, despite varying degrees of degradation, will be protected as conservation areas for enhancement of plant biodiversity with a total ban on felling of trees during the current management plan period. TFDPCL will simultaneously organise planting of tall two year old containerized saplings of indigenous wild tree species from the second year of this plan. At least 50 per cent of the saplings will be species of trees bearing edibles (leaves, petioles, flowers, fruits, etc.) for the benefit of wildlife including birds. Priority shall also be given to the Rare & Threatened taxa cited above table 4.5 while planting. Strong iron-frame plant guards fixed on cemented base should be used for such tall planting to ensure success of plantations. Planting should be followed by 3 rounds of weeding and cleaning of the plant base including beating up of casualties during the first weeding within July, freeing from climbers and mulching of the base with straw or fallen leaves and repair and/or
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replacement of plant guards, where necessary. The year wise target for gap planting during the current management plan is provided in table 4.6. Table 4.6: Year wise target for gap planting in natural areas including tree groves Division Centre Plantation target (ha) 2nd year 3rd year 4th Year 5th Year Total North Juri 0 1 2 2 5 Total of North South-I Paikhola 0 1 2 2 5 Chittamara 0 1 0 0 1 Motai 0 2 2 3 7 Batisha 0 1 1 1 3 Haripur 0 2 2 3 7 Total of South-I Factory Division Takmacherra 0 2 2 3 7 Total of Factory Division South-II West Ludhua 0 2 2 3 7 Gorifa 0 1 1 2 4 Baishnabpur 0 1 1 1.35 3.35 Amlighat 0 0.70 0 0 0.70 Grand total 0 14.7 15 20.35 50.0 5
4.4.4 WATER BODIES: The water bodies in the TFDPCL estate, as stated herein before, were mostly created by raising earthen bunds on narrow valleys to impound rain water from the upper catchment. The stored water is used both by TFDPCL and the local communities. TFDPCL uses the water for its nurseries as well as for processing rubber latex; while the local communities use it for bathing and swimming and for irrigation of agriculture downstream with permission from the Divisional Manager. The centre and division wise particulars of the 25 small water bodies covering an area of 15.02 ha are provided in table 4.7.
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Table 4.7: Division and Centre wise distribution of water bodies Sl. No. Division Centre Number Water area (ha) 1 North Panitilla 3 3.00 Division Juri 1 1.63 Rowa 1 4.8 Amarendranagar 1 0.48 Total of North 6 9.91 2 South-I Abhangchhera 2 1.00 Division Sachirambari 5 3.00 Debdaru 1 0.50 Paikhola 1 1.5 U.B.C. Nagar 1 0.3 Kalshimukh 1 0.80 Total of South-I 6 6.83 3 Factory Takmachhera 3 0.80 Division Patichheri 1 0.50 Total of Factory 4 1.30 4 South-II West Ludhua 2 0.60 Division Garifa 1 0.20 Baishnabpur 1 0.80 Total of South II 4 1.60 Grand total 25 15.02
4.4.4.1 User Committees for Water bodies: One member from each household of locally residing regular TFDPCL workers of the concerned Centre of TFDPCL (other than the TFDPCL worker) and preferably a woman, may be motivated to constitute a User Committee (LPC) with one of the objectives being to utilize the water bodies in the TFDPCL Centre on a sustained basis. Members of the User Committees will be trained, guided and supported by TFDPCL to manage the water bodies for their use on a sustainable basis, which may include supply of water for irrigation downstream (with permission from the Divisional Manager); environment friendly low intensity fish cultivation, rearing of ducks, etc. without compromising the inalienable overriding rights of TFDPCL to use the water bodies for irrigation of its nurseries, plantations, etc. and for any other of its requirements as and when necessary in the larger interest of TFDPCL.
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4.4.4.2 Monitoring and Evaluation of the Water Bodies: TFDPCL will organize annual inspection of each water body by an officer not below the rank of a Corporation Ranger by November every year to evaluate the state of the water bodies & also the working of the User Committees (UC) and to understand the needs for intervention. Then, he shall submit a report on following points to HQ: 1. The achievement or otherwise of the UC entrusted with the responsibility to utilize the water body or bodies to augment income of the members. 2. Water quality as regards fitness for bathing and swimming etc. 3. Condition of the earthen bunds, spill ways; ghats, etc and the nature and extent of needs for maintenance and/or improvement. & 4. Recommendations including detailed plan with drawing and estimate for maintenance and/or improvement of the water bodies, if essential. The Executive Director, TFDPCL will discuss each of the inspection reports with the concerned Divisional Managers by December and will submit a comprehensive proposal to the Managing Director by the first week of January for decision/sanction. TFDPCL will be responsible for regular maintenance and/or improvement of the water bodies as required; and for that appropriate budgetary provision will be ensured. TFDPCL can also create a fund for micro-credit to LPCs promoted as above for productive and sustainable use of water bodies for the purposes aforesaid. Funds for micro-credit for generation of livelihoods utilizing the water bodies may be created separately for each of the 25 centres having water bodies. The monitoring of the implementation of action plan suggested in the preceding paras for managing HCV areas identified within the existing rubber plantations will be carried out periodically by a committee comprising of at least one senior manager from the head quarters, the respective divisional managers and wild life wardens and representatives of local communities. In addition, the MD TFDPCL will himself monitor the implementation at least once in a year. … … … 0 … … …
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CHAPTER V
MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS INCLUDING ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS
5.1 Adherence to general protection of plantation areas
The plantations areas shall be protected against illegal harvesting; encroachments (settlement etc.); harvesting or gathering of RTE species, and other unauthorized activities in accordance with the Indian forest laws. The TFDPCL staff shall take necessary actions including registering of such offences and reporting to the responsible staff of state forest department for further action as per the provisions of the notifications of the state in this regard. It will be the responsibility of the TFDPCL staff to follow up all such cases for their logical conclusion.
TFDPC Ltd, being a sister organization of State Forest Department, always plays a supportive role & helps & assists the state Government regarding all these matters if asked for.
5.2 MERGER OF COUPES:
Situation demanding, such as labour problem, extremist activities, grant or adoption of any special plantation or value addition project and adoption of mechanical methods for creation of plantation, it will be permissible to merge several coupes in one or more according to convenience. But merger of coupes for purposes other than plantation will not be permissible.
5.2 EXTENSION OF COUPES:
In case a particular area affected generally by labour scarcity or other related problems; then if labour becomes available in plenty in adjoining areas of coupes, then felling can be extended there. But, the harvesting will not exceed the total yield stipulated for the year.
5.3 PETTY FELLINGS:
Felling of a petty nature as detailed below may be carried out anywhere within TFDPCL estate and it will not be considered as a deviation. i) Dry and wind fallen rubber trees and bamboo. ii) Rubber wood or bamboo required for ordinary works of TFDPCL. iii) Green stands of rubber and bamboo required by scientific experiments at ICFRE or its affiliated institutions or any other academic or research institutions.
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Such felling should appear in the control forms unless they occur among trees or bamboo plantations which count against the yield.
5.4 GRAZING:
All rubber plantations will be closed to grazing for a period of 3 years. All bamboo plantations within the Rubber Plantation Working Circle will also be closed for 3 years. Pure bamboo plantations will also be closed for 3 years.
5.5 DEVIATIONS:
Any large operation not prescribed in the working plan will constitute a deviation. Some examples of deviations are: i) Extensive felling of dead, dying, diseased and wind fallen rubber trees amounting to timber more than 50 CuM per felling series and wind broken bamboo amounting to harvesting of more than 1000 culms per felling series. ii) Felling of large number of rubber trees and bamboo for TFDPCL works (more than 50 rubber trees per working circle & more than 200 bamboo culms per working circle). iii) Felling of large number of rubber trees and bamboo to meet sudden new demands (more than 50 rubber trees per working circle & more than 200 bamboo culms per working circle).
Application for sanction of the deviation which can be foreseen should be submitted well in advance so that the sanction may be received from the competent authority before the deviation takes place. For those deviations which cannot be foreseen, sanction should be applied as soon as the deviation takes place/occur. 5.6 FIRE PROTECTION:
Adequate attention shall be paid for proper maintenance of fire lines of plantations and appropriate engagement of fire watchers according to requirements. Adequate attention shall be paid for setting up and maintenance of fire detection, reporting and control mechanism in TFDPCL HQ and in Industrial units.
5.7 ROADS AND BUILDINGS:
A list of all important physical infrastructures shall be prepared on the basis of the assets of last financial year’s balance sheet of the company. These assets should be maintained regularly and reviewed once in a year.
5.8 MAINTENANCE OF BOUNDARIES:
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The territorial staff shall ensure maintenance of boundaries of divisions, estates and RPCs under their charge. The cut lines of the boundaries of RPCs shall be kept clean. Signboards of Divisional HQ, RPCs, Plantations, nurseries, industrial units and those giving locational information shall be properly maintained.
5.9 RIGHTS AND CONCESSIONS:
None other than TFDPCL has any rights or concessions on the estate lands transferred or otherwise provided by the Government of Tripura to TFDPCL for commercial use in public interest.
5.10 CONTROL OF FOREST CRIMES: Illicit felling of trees, hunting, encroachments, theft of latex, unauthorized grazing etc constitute forest offences under Indian Forest Act as applicable in Tripura. Similarly, more forest crimes have been defined in other acts like Wildlife (Protection) Act, Forest Conservation Act etc. It will be the prime duty of all the Field Staff of TFDPCL to prevent such crimes in the forest areas under their control. In cases, when such crimes do take place, it will be their duty to report to the higher authorities about the offences & then to investigate the matter or help the authorized person in the investigation to take lawful action against the offender/s as per the laid procedure of law as in vogue in the state of Tripura. Due records of all such offences shall be kept in the unit offices along with the record of action taken against the offenders.
5.11 DISCHARGE OF EFFLUENTS:
The effluents from the timber treatment plants shall be discharged only after proper treatment as mandated by the environmental control & monitoring limb of the state. Similar compliance shall be ensured in the treatment of effluent of latex processing unit also.
5.12 ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS:
TFDPCL commissioned a group of researchers from Tripura University (a Central University) to carry out the “Environmental Impact Assessment of Rubber Plantations of TFDPCL” in 2013. The full report is annexed at the end of this Management Plan. In order to mitigate the impact of rubber plantations & also to ensure low impact practices in the future, following prescriptions have been included in this management plan – Table 5.1: Mitigation of Rubber Plantation Impacts S. No. Present/Likely Environmental Mitigation Measures/Guidelines Impacts Included 1 Soil erosion or site disturbing due to Covered in 2.23.1, & 2.23.3 181
uprooting & replanting activities. 2 Discharge of effluents at the timber Covered in 5.11 treatment plant 3 Impact of use of new clones of Covered in 2.15 rubber plants 4 Impact on RTE species Covered in 4.3.6, 4.5.2.2, 4.5.3.1 5 Control of forest crimes Covered in 5.10 6 Conservation of samples of natural Covered in 4.5.3 ecosystems 7 Malaria due to more mosquitoes in Covered in 6.4 & around rubber plantations 8 Loss of biodiversity Covered in 4.3.6, 4.5.2.2, 4.5.3.1 9 Reduced number of fruit bearing & Covered in 4.5.3.1 fodder trees from the wild
… … o … …
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CHAPTER VI
ESTABLISHMENT, WORKERS AND THEIR WELFARE
6.1 Present Establishment of TFDPC Currently, the strengths of permanent, contractual & other manpower of TFDPC are as under –
Table 6.1 - Strengths of permanent, contractual & other manpower of TFDPC
Permanent Establishment of TFDPC as on 31.03.2013 Post Name No. of No. of Scale Location of work sanctioned filled post posts Company Secretary 1 1 PB,4 .13575-37000/-, M.D office GP-5600/- Chief Accounts 1 - PB,4 .13575-37000/-, -- Officer GP-4800/- Works Manager (re 1 1 PB,4 .13575-37000/-, TFDPC, I.E, designated as GP-4800/- Nagicherra Senior Manager) Maintenance 1 - PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- -- Engineer 3500/- Q.C.O.(re- 1 1 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- TFDPC, I.E, designated as Dy 3500/- Nagicherra Manager) Production 1 0 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- -- Manager 3500/- Accounts Officer 1 0 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- -- 3500/- Shift Incharge ( 3 1 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- TFDPC, I.E, redesignated as 3500/- Nagicherra Dy Manager) Asstt Accounts 5 0 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- -- Officer 2600/- Junior Engineer, 1 1 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office Gr-1 (Diploma) GP-2400/- Office 1 1 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- Sabroom Superintendent 3100/- Labour Welfare 3 0 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- Officer 2600/- ---- Estate Manager 4 1 PB-3, .9570-30000, GP- Sadar 2600/- Head Asstt/ 18 15 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office, Sadar, Accountant GP-2400/- North, South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & 183
TFDPC I.E, Nagicherra Corporation Ranger 25 22 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , Sadar, North, GP-2400/- South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & TFDPC I.E, Nagicherra Boiler Attendant 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , --- GP-2400/- Shop Floor 2 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , --- Supervisor GP-2400/- Senior Assistant 16 8 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office, Sadar, GP-2100/- North, South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & TFDPC I.E, Nagicherra Stenographer 2 2(1 on PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office deputatio GP-2100/- n) Chemist 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-2100/- Supervisor(TRWF) 1 1 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , TFDPC,I.E GP-2400/- Supervisor 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- (TTPlant) GP-2100/- Supervisor(Takma) 4 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-2100/- Office Assistant 32 19 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office, Sadar, GP-1800/- North, South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & TFDPC.I.E, Nagicherra Driver 11 5 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , M.D office, TFDPC GP-1800/- I.E, South-I. Technical Assistant 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-2400/- Laboratory 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- Assistant GP-1800/- Electrician (Takma) 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-1800/- Electrician (TTP) 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-1800/- Pump Operator 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , -- GP-1800/- Corporation 50 31 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , Sadar, North, Forester GP-1800/- South-I, South-II, Takmacherra Project Guard 54 39 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , Sadar, North, 184
GP-1700/- South-I, South-II, Takmacherra Machine Operator 25 11 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , TFDPC I.E, GP-1700/- Nagicherra Gestetner Operator 1 0 PB-2, .5310-24000/- , --- GP-1600/- Laboratory 1 0 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, --- Attendant GP-1200/- Office attendant 1 0 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, --- GP-1200/- Watchman 2 0 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, -- GP-1200/- Saw Bench 8 0 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, -- Operator GP-1200/- Peon 20 17 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, M.D office, Sadar, GP-1200/- North, South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & TFDPC.I.E, Nagicherra Watcher/Guard 2 0 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, -- GP-1200/- Mali cum watcher 50 34 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, Sadar, North, GP-1200/- South-I, South-II, Takmacherra & TFDPC. I.E, Nagicherra Night Guard 9 6 PB-1, .4530-13000/-, M.D office, Sadar, GP-1200/- North, South-I, South-II.
Total :- 366 217 Contractual Manpower of TFDPC as on31.03.2013 Post Name No. of No. of filled Scale Location of work sanctioned post posts O.S As per 1 Fixed Rs. 12,000/- M.D office requirement Estate Manager As per 2 Fixed Rs. 12,000/- M.D office requirement Corporation Ranger As per 3 Fixed Rs. 10,000/- TFDPC I.E, Sadar & requirement Sabroom Corporation As per 3 Fixed Rs. 8,000/- South-I & Forester requirement Takmacherra Accountant As per 2 Fixed Rs. 10,000/- M.D office & requirement Takmacherra Accounts Assistant As per 1 Fixed Rs. 15,000/- M.D office requirement Laboratory As per 1 Fixed Rs. 15,000/- Takmacherra 185
Assistant requirement
Other Manpower for TFDPC as on 31.03.2013 Sl. Post name Type of employment & Number Location of work No. post 1 Driver MR Driver 2 M.D office & North 2 Peon MR Peon 3 M.D office, Sadar & South-I 3 Helper MR Vehicle Helper 1 TFDPC I.E, Nagicherra 4 Part-time Worker Part-time worker 7 M.D office, Sadar, TFDPC I.E, North, South-I, South-II & Takmacherra
6.2 Requirement of additional man power Currently, TFDPC is undergoing the learning curve of an upcoming enterprise. Its brand & products have started earning a name for itself in the state. It has a long way to go in establishing its brand in the regional, national & international level. Hence, the existing strength of Managers and support staff is inadequate to carry out the prescriptions of this plan. A large number of vacancies against sanctioned posts have been indicated in Table 6.1. These posts have to be filled first before going for increasing the numbers of posts. The Plan, at para 2.9 of part II, recommends work on double shift at TTP and TRWF to make adequate use of the capacity of the machines and other physical infrastructure in industrial units; and the management must review the entire manpower situation in this context for fresh recruitment of suitable personnel on top priority. It should be well understood that in the present set up, every work cannot be outsourced. The responsibilities of ensuring quality & quantity of work from the menial & contractual staff should rest with diligent & energetic executives. Hence, keeping into view the vision of expanding the production of value added rubber- wood & bamboo products five folds in five years, the realistic assessment of manpower requirement shall be carried out every year just after the monsoon & filling up the vacancies shall be done within two months after monsoon. 6.3 Welfare Committees at the Headquarter & the Unit / Division Level: TFDPCL plantations were established to benefit the local people as a means to provide permanent settlement of people from their earlier system of shifting cultivation. The SIA (Social Impact Assessment) study of TFDPCL operations and activities has been conducted by an independent agency (Tripura University) through interaction with the local community and the workers and the result of the same has been discussed with the local communities (both men and women) and it will be monitored annually by the committees set up at the unit/division as well as at Headquarter level. The outcome of the SIA and its discussions with the local community will be given due considerations in
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the planning and implementation of Forest management activities of TFDPCL. This mechanism will help resolve grievances and will also be used for providing fair compensation in the case of loss or damage affecting the legal or customary rights, property, resources, or livelihoods of local people, as per the Government laws, being a Government of Tripura undertaking. There are no customary rights of people over the plantation areas other than TFDPCL as these areas were given by the state government to them on a long-term lease. 6.4 Hazards & Health & Safety Precautions for Rubber Plantation & Processing Workers: According to International Labour Organization Encyclopedia of Occupational Health & Safety, the Hazards & Health & Safety Precautions for Rubber Plantation & Processing Workers (Home >> Part XII. Chemical Industries >> Rubber Industry >> Rubber Tree Cultivation; Beliczky, Louis S.,Fajen, John, Editor, Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety, Jeanne Mager Stellman, Editor-in-Chief. International Labor Organization, Geneva. © 2011) are as under - 6.4.1 For Plantation Workers – “The chief hazards to field workers are exposure to the elements, animal and insect bites and hazards related to the sharp tools used to make incisions in the trees. Injuries that result should be treated promptly to reduce the risk of infection. Preventive and therapeutic measures can reduce the hazards of the climate and pests. The incidences of malaria and gastro-enteric diseases have been reduced on modern plantations through prophylaxis, mosquito control and sanitary measures”. 6.4.2 For Processing Workers – “The hazards arising from the use of mechanized production methods (i.e., rolls and centrifuges) require strict safety controls during installation, use and maintenance, including attention to machine guarding. Appropriate precautions must be used when processing chemicals are used. Attention should be paid to the use of appropriate walking and working surfaces to prevent slips, trips and falls. Employees should receive training in safe work practices. Strict supervision is required to prevent accidents associated with the use of heat as an aid in curing”. 6.4.3 Hence, in order to safeguard the rubber plantation & processing workers from the occupational hazards, a two pronged strategy shall be adopted which shall include preventive measures through trainings & use of safety equipments & curative measures through first aid & medical treatment. The norms & schemes of National Rubber Board, India shall be followed in this regard. 6.4.4 The trainings regarding the occupational hazards shall be given to workers of all level by the HQ & Unit level managers - preferably in the very beginning of the working season for plantation workers & twice annually for the workers of processing units. The trainings would be of two types – induction training & refresher training. Standard safety gear shall be provided to the workers depending on the nature of their jobs. Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs) for all hazardous tools & machines shall be prepared & be
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made available at all the work centers. These SOPs shall be included in their training modules. First aid boxes shall be made available at the plantation sites as well as at the processing centers & shall be kept in possession of trained supervisors. A list of nearby dispensaries, hospitals & doctors along with their addresses & contact numbers shall be prepared at the work centers so that the ailing or suffering workers get professional help in minimum possible time. 6.4.5 The details of SOP for tapping, rubber processing (sheet rubber, crepe rubber, block rubber and CENEX), and rubber tree felling are provided in the manual for RPCs (part IV). Similarly the details of EHS and trainings are also included in this manual.
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CHAPTER VII MONITORING, CONTROL AND RECORDS 7.1 Control and RECORDS: All deviations above the limits stipulated under para 5.5 of this management plan will require prior sanction of the Regional CCF (FC) of GoI. Deviations which are below the limits stipulated in para 5.5 in this management plan may be sanctioned by the Managing Director of TFDPC.
7.2 CONTROL Forms 7.2.1 Control forms given here under will be maintained by Divisional Managers in the form of a book separately for each working Circle, titled as "Control book for … … Working Circle". Subsidiary records as illustrated and those which the Managing Director may order from time to time shall also be maintained. The pages will be serially numbered. Copies of all control forms will be sent to the Managing Director through the Executive Director in triplicate. No explanatory notes will be given in the forms; but these should be given in the forwarding letter.
7.2.2 MANAGEMENT PLAN (MP) 7.2.2.1 Form A COUPE CONTROL FORM Working Circle Block(s)/Compartment(s) prescribed
Prescription MP Year As carried out Excess (+) Remarks in brief para due or Deficit (-) & sanction Year Block/ Area Volume/ Area Volume/ Comptt. Culms Culms 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
7.2.3.2 Form A I FELLING CONTROL FORM Working Circle Block(s)/Compartment (s) prescribed (with areas)
Block & Area Species Diameter Trees Volume/ Trees % of Remarks Comptt. class marked Culms retained trees marked retained 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
7.2.4 Form B CONTROL OF SUBSIDIARY OPERATION
Working Prescription MP Block/ Prescribed As carried out Circle in brief para Comptt./ for year of Block/ Area Year of Remarks Year of plantation Comptt/ Operation 189
plantn. to Year of which plantn. applicable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
7.2.5 Form C - CONTROL OF PLANTATION & ARTIFICIAL REGENERATION
Working Block(s)/ Prescription MP Year As carried out Circle to in brief Para due Year Block Area Excess (+) Remarks which / Deficit (-) applicable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
7.2.5.1 Form C I Working Circle … Area prescribed … Compartment Felling Series … Total area attempted … Prescribed WP para … Year of felling … … Year Block & Area Species Cost in year compt. 1st year 2nd 3rd year 4th year 5th year 6th year year 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Subsequent Area Remarks operation successful 11 12 13
7.2.6 Form D - STATEMENT SHOWING DEVIATIONS Serial No. of Control book Reference to management Plan Nature of deviation name, Form no. Paragraph Nature of deviation page prescription requiring sanction 1 2 3 4 5 7.3 PLANTATIONS JOURNAL Plantations journals will be maintained by the Officer-in-charge of rubber plantation centers (RPC) in the forms shown hereunder. Situation map as well as plot map/maps should be pasted appropriately on the blank pages of the Journal. The maps must bear the full name and designation and dated signature of the surveyor.
7.3.1 Form - 1 (a) 1 Name Forest Corporation Division 2 Name of Revenue Sub-Division 190
3 Name of RD Block 4 Name of RPC 5 Name of Revenue village 6 Name of Revenue Mouza 7 CS Plot No. 8 Latitude Longitude 9 Year of plantation 10 Area of plantation
7.3.2 Form - 1 (b) 1 Situation: 2 Configuration: 3 Soil: 4 Brief description of existing Crop: i) Upper storey: Rubber plantation ii) Middle storey: Rubber plantation iii) Shelterbelt: iv) Under growth: v) Ground Cover: vi) Year of final extraction: 5Names Name of adjoining Village(s)/habitation(s): 6 General remarks:
7. 3. 3. Form - 2 (a) 1 Method of raising plantation: i. Seed: Source & quantity of seeds used: ii. Transplants: Source & number of seedling used: 2 Spacing 3 Clone of plantation(GT-1,RRIM-600,RRII-105) 4 Labour: 5 Field crops: 6 Fencing:
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7.3.4 FORM - 2 (b) Item Operation Date of Area Total cost Cost per No. Commence Completion in (Rs. in ha (Rs. in ment Ha lakhs) lakhs) 1 Advance action 2 Demarcation/Survey 3 Site preparation/Pit digging 4 Seed collection 5 Nursery 6 Sowing or planting 7 Making of fire-line 8 Post planting maintenance 9 1st year i. 1st weeding ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 2nd year i. 1st weeding ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 3rd year i. 1st weeding ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 4th year i. 1st weeding ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 5th year i. 1st weeding 192
ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 6th year i. 1st weeding ii. 2nd weeding iii. 3rd weeding iv. Fire-line v. Vacancy filling vi. Fencing vii. others 10 7th year – 32nd years maintenance 11 Subsequent operation 12 Cultural operation
7.3.5 Form - 3 (a) year Plot No. Area Area failed/ Successful area % of Remarks attempted/no. no. of plants / successful no. success of plants planted died of plants 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7.4 DIVISIONAL NOTE BOOK Divisional Note Book having the following entries and any other as may be ordered by the Managing Director will be maintained and posted annually, A copy of annual entries made under the following headings will be annexed to the Annual Administrative Report:
1) Deviations: Important ones to be noted. 2) Prescriptions: Criticism & suggestions 3) Regeneration: State of regeneration 4) Artificial regeneration: General comments and observation 5) Thinning 6) Extraction 7) Market conditions 8) Minor Forest Produce 9) Roads and buildings 10) Boundaries 11) Protection of Forests: Special aspects
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12) Rainfall and climate: 13) Staff and labour: 14) Any other information: 7.5 FIRE RECORDS: It will be maintained in the form of a register in each Plantation Centre, factory and Industrial Estate of TFDPCL. The Officer-in-charge (O/c) will record the date and time of the incident; type of high wind; available details of damages to men, plantation, nursery and physical infrastructure with approximate costs; immediate actions initiated for relief and towards mitigation of damages; and mail a copy of the preliminary report to the immediate higher authority with copy to MD within 24 hours by messenger/fax/e-mail. The O/c, after a thorough investigation, will prepare a complete report within 10 days with map of the area affected to his immediate higher authority. Telephonic message to the concerned authority should be made as soon as possible; and the details of that call should be recorded appropriately in the fire records.
7.6 RECORDS OF DAMAGE BY HIGH WINDS/CYCLONE/OTHER DISASTERS: It will be maintained in the form of a register in each Plantation Centre, factory and Industrial Estate of TFDPCL. The Officer-in-charge (O/c) will record the date and time of the incident; type of high wind; available details of damages to men, plantation, nursery and physical infrastructure with approximate costs; immediate actions initiated for relief and towards mitigation of damages; and mail a copy of the preliminary report to the immediate higher authority with copy to MD within 24 hours by messenger/fax/e-mail. The O/c, after a thorough investigation, will prepare a complete report within 10 days with map of the area affected to his immediate higher authority.
The stipulation for claiming insurance claim of gale damaged plantations is that the first report should be made in 24 hours to the insurance agency in prescribed format. Hence, it must be followed very particularly to save TFDPC & the tappers from the losses due to natural calamities.
7.7 RECORDS OF BAMBOO FLOWERING: A clear and accurate record of gregarious bamboo Flowering is to be maintained. The form in which it should be maintained will be decided by the Divisional Manager. Different species of bamboo will experience gregarious flowering at different times. Care must be taken to keep a track of such incidences in the adjoining states & country.
The event of gregarious flowering of bamboo is clearly an emergency situation & accordingly planning should be done to collect as much seed as possible, to harvest all the dried bamboo culms from the natural & planted bamboo areas, to ensure utmost care in safeguarding the flowered areas from fires, to ensure broadcasting of bamboo seeds in the bamboo areas & after regeneration of bamboo, the area must be strictly protected from grazing. 194
7.8 INSECT, FUNGUS AND PARASITE DAMAGE: A detailed record of such incidents with steps taken to control it should be maintained in a form to be decided by the Divisional Manager. In serious cases, help should be sought from ICFRE & associated research institutions.
7.9 REGISTER OF LAND AT THE DISPOSAL OF TFDPCL A register showing details of forest and other land either transferred, purchased or on lease or otherwise under the custody of any establishment of TFDPCL shall be maintained by the concerned Officer-in-charge & shall be inspected every year by the Managing Director. The record in this respect will include demarcation records showing RF boundary pillar numbers, TFDPCL boundary pillar numbers, the bearing and the distance from pillar to pillar are to be maintained along with GPS maps and details of land/settlement records including classification, Khatian (record of rights) number, plot no. and area of each plot of land. A record of year-wise plantations & its beneficiaries should also be maintained.
Details of areas under the custody of TFDPCL which are under encroachment or allocated under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 should be recorded with essential details and should also be reported to the Managing Director as soon as possible.
7.10 CATTLE AND GAME CENSUS: Whenever such a census is conducted covering the Divisional area, particulars of the same shall be recorded in a separate register; and this should also be reported to the Managing Director.
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7.11 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION AND MONITORING OF WELFARE COMMITTEES: TFDPCL engages itself closely with its stakeholders including employees, workers and the local community for mutual exchanges of information and takes action on the suggestions received through such consultations. For its staff and workers, the meetings of the Unit level Welfare Committees shall be held preferably in the month of February every year followed by the meeting of the Headquarter level Welfare Committee. The issues raised in the Unit Level Welfare Committees which could not be resolved at the unit level shall be discussed & resolved in the Headquarter level Welfare Committee. If these decisions have any budgetary impact then it shall be duly addressed in the budget proposal for next year. This formal mechanism shall not be held as the only mechanism to resolve the welfare issues of the establishment, workers & other stakeholders of TFDPCL. There shall be a live dialogue between the TFDPCL Management & the stakeholders at various levels & the welfare issues of the stakeholders shall be heard when the unit & HQ level officers visit the plantations & processing units & shall also be discussed & resolved in the monthly meetings at the Unit & HQ level. The meetings of the stakeholders and the welfare committees are maintained at RFC level a sellas the
7.12 MONITORING, RECORDS & EQUIPMENTS FOR HAZARDS & HEALTH & SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR RUBBER PLANTATION & PROCESSING WORKERS: An inventory & issue registers of standard safety equipments shall be maintained at the work sites for the plantation & processing workers. The inventory shall be maintained as per the expiry of the equipment & replenished accordingly. Separate record of equipments damaged during use shall also be maintained. Similar arrangements shall also be made for first aid boxes (FAB). The supervisors at the work sites shall be trained in the use of first aid boxes & shall be made responsible for timely replenishment of the contents of the FAB. Registers at the unit & HQ levels shall be maintained to keep records of trainings for health & safety. The objective of all these efforts shall be to ensure that every worker is covered by trainings & safety measures. A list of nearby dispensaries, hospitals & doctors along with their addresses & contact numbers shall be prepared at the work centers so that the ailing or suffering workers get professional help in minimum possible time. This list shall be updated at list once every year. Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs) for all hazardous tools & machines shall be maintained at all the work centers. These SOPs shall be included in their training modules. 7.13 ANNUAL INSPECTIONS OF THE HQ & UNIT / DIVISION OFFICES: A roster of Annual Inspections shall be maintained at the Company Secretary level in the HQ & the CS shall be responsible for ensuring the inspections, preparing a gist of major findings & presenting it before the MD before the end of every financial year. The action taken report on this gist shall be presented to the BOD of the Corporation by the MD in the meeting approving budget for the next financial year.
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7.14 RECORD OF FOREST OFFENCES & ACTION TAKEN IN SUCH CASES: The records of all forest offences taken place in the forest area under the control of TFDPCL & the action taken on such offences shall be kept in the prescribed formats as in vogue at the Divisional level offices. The Divisional Managers shall endeavor to reduce such offences & shall ensure lawful action against the offenders. The HQ level officers shall inspect these records during the annual inspection & include their observations in the inspection report to be presented before the MD. 7.15 STATE LEVEL MONITORING COMMITTEE FOR SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT OF TFDPCL PLANTATIONS: A state level monitoring committee shall be constituted to ensure the monitoring of all forestry & socio-economic prescriptions in accordance with the Principles & Criteria of FSC. This committee shall meet at least once every financial year to review the monitoring & also to suggest additions or alterations in the monitoring parameters & the methodology. … … … 0 … … …
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CHAPTER VIII
GENERAL FINANCIAL FORECAST AND FINANCIAL PLAN OF OPERATION 8.1 Financial health of the corporation:
The financial position of TFDPC Ltd during the period from 2003-04 to 2012-2013 is given as under.
Table 8.1: Key Financial Indicators of TFDPCL for the decade 2003-2013 (Rs. In Lakhs)
Particulars 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
Total 749.48 748.52 1406.24 2005.40 3025.56 3796.11 4153.95 5017.11 4968.07 5316.26 Turnover of Company Expenditure 309.33 232.07 248.68 277.61 1494.93 1719.19 1867.43 2305.83 2514.50 3627.78 Profit Before ------1530.63 2076.92 2286.52 2711.28 2453.58 1688.48 Depreciation Depreciation ------64.62 57.73 58.99 85.05 ------Profit Before 440.14 507.76 1157.57 1727.79 1466.01 2019.19 2227.53 2626.23 2453.58 1688.48 Tax Provision for 91.39 230.69 248.36 314.54 340.87 438.96 449.90 433.72 Income Tax 21.70 172.15 Provision for ------1.20 1.29 ------Fringe Benefit - Tax ------Dividend paid ------27.60 -- Deferred Tax ------8.38 5.28 8.01 Provision for ------4.69 ------Dividend Tax 4.00 - Transfer to ------47.00 120.00 ------General -- Reserve Net Profit 418.45 371.36 833.82 1497.10 1211.75 1703.37 1886.66 2178.89 1998.40 1246.75
Key Observations on financial Health of TFDPCL
TFDPC is running on profit since 2002-03. Presently is the largest profit making & highest tax payer state PSU in Tripura.
TFDPC implement its business objectives through its own annual action plan approved by the Board of directors. It has its own budgetary system. Accounts of the business of the company are properly maintained and the same is subjected to audit by the statutory auditors, who are CA, as well as CAG officials.
Some of the business activities of TFDPCL are as under:
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a. The Centrifuging Factory and Crepe Mill at Takmachera were established with financial assistance of N.E.C. started commercial production from last part of 1993-94 and it continued to run during the year 2013-14.
b. The company has a TSR & ISNR factory at Takmachera
c. The Company continued with implementation of schemes of the State Government of Tripura for resettlement of Scheduled Tribe families through Rubber Plantation. New family of Scheduled Tribes was included for economic settlement through rubber plantation @ 1.5 hectare per family.
d. The company has Timber Treatment Plant, Tripura Rubber Wood Factory and Unakoti Furniture & Pilak door factory in Industrial Estate at Anandanagar.
8.2 Outlook for the next five years - The details of Projected Revenue, Projected Revenue Expenditure, Capital Expenditure & net surplus are given below in Table 8.2.
Table 8.2: The details of Projected Revenue, Projected Revenue Expenditure, Capital Expenditure & net surplus (Rs. in Lakhs) -
Projected Revenue 2013 -14 2014 -15 2015 -16 2016 -17 2017 -18
Rs. Sale of Rubber 3,700.00 Rs.3,885.42 Rs. 4,157.06 Rs. 4,406.49 Rs. 4,666.68 Sale of Timber, Board & Rs. Rubber Wood Furniture 286.27 Rs. 314.90 Rs. 346.39 Rs. 381.03 Rs. 419.13 Sale of Doors & Rs. Windows 135.23 Rs. 148.75 Rs. 163.63 Rs. 179.99 Rs. 197.99 Sale of bamboo Rs. Furniture 18.00 Rs. 19.80 Rs. 21.78 Rs. 23.96 Rs. 26.35 Interest from Fixed Rs. Deposit 750.00 Rs. 825.00 Rs. 907.50 Rs. 998.25 Rs. 1,098.08 Rs. Total 4,889.50 Rs.5,193.87 Rs. 5,596.36 Rs. 5,989.71 Rs. 6,408.22
Projected Revenue Expenditure 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Establishment & Administration 1435.58 Rs.1,579.14 Rs. 1,737.05 Rs. 1,910.76 Rs. 2,101.83 Production expenses of Rubber 1712.37 Rs.1,854.37 Rs. 2,054.05 Rs. 2,261.96 Rs. 2,496.39 Processing of timber & furniture making 356.62 Rs. 392.28 Rs. 431.51 Rs. 474.66 Rs. 522.13 Processing of Bamboo 5.78 Rs. 6.36 Rs. 6.99 Rs. 7.69 Rs. 8.46
Total 3510.35 3832.152907 4229.602688 4655.074455 5128.810274
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Rs. Revenue surplus 1,379.15 Rs.1,361.71 Rs. 1,366.76 Rs. 1,334.64 Rs. 1,279.41 Rs. Taxation 413.75 Rs. 408.51 Rs. 410.03 Rs. 400.39 Rs. 383.82 Rs. Surplus after tax 965.41 Rs. 953.20 Rs. 956.73 Rs. 934.25 Rs. 895.59
Capital Expenditure 2013 -14 2014 -15 2015 -16 2016 -17 2017 -18 creation of Rubber Plantation Rs.254.95 Rs.214.77 Rs.207.70 Rs.224.69 Rs.222.16 Creation of bamboo Plantation (50 Ha per annum Rs.80.88 Rs.107.43 Rs.117.85 Rs.124.15 Rs.124.15 Infrastructure development Rs.187.97 Rs.206.77 Rs.227.44 Rs.250.19 Rs.275.21 Door manufacturing unit Rs.148.95 Wood Plastic composite unit Rs.50.00 Rs.50.00 Bamboo Dhari Unit Rs.106.00 Rs.300.00 Rs.300.00 De-structured Bamboo Board Rs.12.90 Sawing, seasoning & treatment units Rs.100.00 Rs.100.00 Total Rs.841.65 Rs.878.98 Rs.852.99 Rs.699.03 Rs.721.51 Net Surplus Rs.123.75 Rs.74.22 Rs.103.74 Rs.235.22 Rs.174.08
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CHAPTER IX
SUMMARY OF PRESCRIPTIONS 9.1 Summary of prescriptions for Rubber Plantation Working Circle and Bamboo Plantation Working Circle are given in table 9.1 and 9.2 respectively.
Table 9.1: Summary of prescriptions for Rubber Plantation Working Circle Working Heading Prescription Paragraph circle Principal species Rubber 2.1 Area statement (Gross Area) 9536.11 ha 2.4
Working series 4 2.5 Silvicultural system Clear felling followed by artificial 2.7 regeneration Calculation of yield Yield is regulated by area with an 2.9 estimated volume Method of executing felling Clear felling after ‘slaughter 2.11 tapping’. Existing non-rubber trees retained and protected for biodiversity. Method of regeneration Poly bag planting 2.13.2 Thinning Not required 2.14 Rubber Plantation Working Circle Working Rubber Plantation Miscellaneous regulation Given 2.21 Cost of creation of Plantation Given. Appendix 4 (Part I) 2.22
Table 9.2: Summary of prescriptions for Bamboo Plantation Overlapping Working Circle
Working Heading Prescription Paragraph circle Principal species Kanak kaich and Muli Bamboo 3.4 Area statement 9600.31 ha 3.6 Working series 4 3.7 Silvicultural system Selection system 3.9 Calculation of yield Yield regulated by area & with an 3.10
estimate of yield in no. of culms Method of executing felling No felling prescribed 3.12 Circle Method of regeneration Artificial regeneration from 3.5.1 & 3.5.2 rhizomes for Kanak kaich. Decision pending for Muli Thinning Not recommended 3.13 Bamboo Overlapping Working Working Overlapping Bamboo
Cost of creation of plantation Given. Appendix 4 (Part I) 3.16 Miscellaneous regulations Given 3.17
… … … o … … …
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