Man fined Rs 78K for uprooting of ‘Kashmal’ roots

Forest authorities in the Churah area of Chamba district apprehended a man involved in the illegal extraction of Kashmal (Berberis aristata) roots in the Kihar block. Acting on a tip-off, Churah Divisional Forest Officer Sushil Kumar Guleria and his team rushed to the site, where several individuals were reportedly uprooting the roots without permission. While most offenders fled, the team seized a vehicle and caught one individual with approximately 70 quintals of Kashmal roots.

A fine of Rs 78,000 was imposed after evaluating the seized material. The Kashmal plant, an evergreen spiny shrub native to the Himalayan region, is highly valued for its medicinal properties. Its roots and bark are used to treat jaundice, diabetes, eye infections, internal wounds and more. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties, with some compounds showing potential in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.

DFO Guleria clarified that Kashmal root extraction is permissible on private lands but is prohibited in forested and protected areas. He noted that offenders often exploit forest resources to make quick profits by selling the roots to other states. The Forest Department has increased vigilance in response to the rampant illegal trade in Chamba and nearby districts.

“We are closely monitoring activities in both private and forest lands. Strict action will be taken against anyone found uprooting Kashmal roots from banned areas,” said Guleria. Proactive measures, including heightened surveillance and stringent penalties, are being implemented to protect the region’s forest resources.