A magnificent sandalwood tree has been planted in the grounds of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries (LVV). Minister Parmanand Sewdien and Indian Ambassador Shankar Balachandran completed this on Monday, June 19. In honor of the 150th anniversary of Hindu immigration, Indian President Droupadi Murmu gave Suriname two clones of the plant during her state visit. The sandalwood plant cannot be exported from India. On June 5, one of the plants was placed at the Baba and Mai monument.
India is the home of the sandalwood tree. Sandalwood tree wood is used to make incense, perfumes, and other scented goods. The wood is favored for use in furniture and other decorative objects because it is durable and resistant to rot. India has rigorous laws protecting sandalwood trees to preserve their long-term survival. There are still some remaining populations of this priceless plant in Australia and Hawaii. The plant will have developed into a 9 meter tall tree with white blooms in around seven years, making it a valued asset due to its immense utility.
”The weather conditions and soil conditions of Suriname are very good for plants from India. I experience that myself. My president has lovingly donated this plant to Suriname, which also has a very sacred meaning. And the plant has already proven its powerful medicinal value,” said Ambassador Balachandran. Minister Sewdien expressed his thanks to President Murmu through the diplomat. He expressed his satisfaction that the site of his ministry has been chosen to plant the sandalwood tree. Also on this occasion were Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul (Director of Public Health), Steve Silos (Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Development of Traditional Medical Systems Industry in Suriname), Amrika Anroedh (Vice-Chairman and Coordinator of the Ayurvedic Center in Saramacca) and Joan Ilahi (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business). and International Cooperation).
