Uttar Pradesh To Introduce New Agroforestry Policy To Boost Plywood Industry

Lucknow, Jul 29 (KNN) The Uttar Pradesh government is set to introduce a new Agroforestry Policy aimed at promoting plywood and wood-based industries and facilitating the establishment of new manufacturing units in the state.

New Policy to Simplify Approvals for Wood-Based Industries

The proposed policy will seek to simplify procedures related to licences, approvals and other regulatory requirements for plywood and wood-based businesses. 

The Forest Department will formulate the policy in coordination with the Environment and Industrial Development departments.

Environmental protection will remain a key priority under the proposed framework, while the government will also seek to attract investors from other states engaged in plywood and wood-based industries.

UP to Assess Industrial Potential and Neighbouring State Policies

The policy will take into account Uttar Pradesh's industrial potential, existing infrastructure, investment opportunities and mechanisms for faster approvals. 

The government is also studying policies implemented by neighbouring states while formulating the framework.

Consultations have been held with the Plywood Federation and industry representatives to ensure the policy addresses practical challenges and provides a sustainable regulatory framework without requiring frequent amendments.

Industry Inputs to Shape New Policy

Industry stakeholders are expected to play an active role in the policy formulation process, with issues related to licensing, forest regulations, pollution norms, No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and penal provisions being examined.

The government aims to strengthen ease of doing business, develop world-class industrial infrastructure and create a favourable ecosystem for investment in the state's plywood and agroforestry sectors.

(KNN Bureau)