Ramdhuni: The Sub-Division Forest Office in Sunsari, located in Ramdhuni, has been actively producing and distributing over 35,000 seedlings each year at no cost. These seedlings encompass a wide range of species, including cash crops, flowers, fruits, and forest trees.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the nursery, which began operations four years ago, has seen a significant increase in demand for its seedlings. Forest assistant Kaji Acharya at the Ramdhuni Sub-Division Forest Office noted that the nursery produces various species, such as khayar, jacaranda, lemon, sisau, wood apple, guava, and tejpat. While some seedlings are produced annually, others are perennial.
The proximity of the office to the Ramdhuni Temple increases the likelihood that devotees visiting the shrine will obtain seedlings. Acharya mentioned that the saplings produced in Ramdhuni are distributed across various districts in the country and even beyond the border, attracting religious tourists from India.
The peak demand for seedlings occurs between June and August, with the nursery catering to the general public, community forests, and various organizations. Although saplings for agricultural purposes are not produced, only species suitable for planting in forest areas are available.
For individuals seeking two to four saplings, no documentation is required. However, institutional requests for over four saplings necessitate a recommendation from the relevant ward. Those seeking over 50 saplings must submit an application, along with a copy of citizenship and land ownership certificate, as outlined by Acharya.
Beyond plant production and distribution, the office provides technical assistance to community forests, aids in pruning and felling, and conducts regular patrols in national forest areas, while also supporting the activities of forest user groups.