Agarwood

In News: The Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region recently laid the foundation stone for the ₹80 crore Agarwood Value Chain Development Scheme to promote cultivation, processing, and trade of Agarwood in India.

About Agarwood

1. Scientific Name: Aquilaria malaccensis
2. Family: Thymelaeaceae
3. Common Names: Agarwood, Oud, Gaharu
4. Significance: Prized as the world’s most valuable incense; also used in perfumes, essential oils, and traditional medicine

Formation of Resin

1. Agarwood resin is produced as a defense mechanism by the tree when infected by Phaeoacremonium species (previously Phialophora parasitica).
2. The resin is dark, fragrant, and highly valuable.

Habitat & Distribution

Global

1. South Asia (Himalayan foothills)
2. Southeast Asia
3. Rainforests of Papua New Guinea

India

1. Northeastern states: Assam, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur
2. Prefers subtropical forests
3. Can grow in a wide range of soils, including poor sandy soils

Growth Characteristics

1. Grows at elevations from a few meters to 1000 m, ~500 m ideal
2. Seedlings require shade and water but grow rapidly
3. Flowering and seeding can occur as early as 4 years
4. In the wild, full maturation may take ~10 years

Uses & Applications

1. Incense and spiritual purposes
2. Traditional medicine
3. Essential oils and perfumery
4. High international market value; contributes to livelihoods and forest economy in NE India

Significance of the Agarwood Value Chain Development Scheme

1. Promote scientific cultivation and sustainable harvesting
2. Encourage local entrepreneurship and employment
3. Facilitate value addition and export promotion
4. Preserve wild Aquilaria populations by reducing pressure on natural forests