The Indian government has officially put Sandalwood in the spotlight. In the Union Budget 2026, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced new plans to help farmers grow more Sandalwood across the country.
Why this matters:
Support for Farmers: The government will work with states to make it easier for farmers to grow, cut, and sell Sandalwood.
High Value: Quality heartwood is currently valued at ₹7,500 per kg, while pure oil reaches ₹1.5 lakh per kg.
Global Demand: The world market for Sandalwood is growing fast and is expected to reach over $500 million by 2030.
Our Take (Pure Knowledge):
This move helps protect the future of authentic Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album). By making cultivation easier for farmers, we can ensure a steady supply of high-oil heartwood, keeping the “glory of Indian Sandalwood” alive for years to come.