Kashmal Under Threat: Wild Plant Exploitation Raises Alarm in Mashobra

In the quiet forests of Ward Thund in Satlai Gram Panchayat, Mashobra Block, a troubling scene is unfolding. Contractors’ laborers have pitched tents and are being paid nearly ₹1,000 for every quintal of Kashmal roots they uproot. The result: hundreds of tons of these wild plants are being stripped from the land, sparking fears of ecological imbalance and eventual extinction.

Locals point out that while farmers are allowed by the Forest Department to harvest trees and plants from their own land once every ten years, the current exploitation is happening on government land, not private plots. Intellectuals warn that the destruction of wild fruit plants is driving animals into residential areas, while the uprooting of trees threatens the fragile environment.

The Kashmal plant, also known as Barberry, is more than just a forest shrub. Standing 4–5 meters tall, it produces small blue fruits rich in iron, enjoyed by both humans and animals like monkeys. Ayurveda expert Dr. Vishwabandhu Joshi explains that Kashmal is a medicinal treasure—its extract Rasaunt is used in eye medicine, and its roots are valued for treating diabetes, jaundice, and piles. No wonder the roots fetch high demand in the open market, offering farmers a lucrative income.

Forest guard Labbu Ram confirmed that contractor Sanjeev Kanwar of Sirmaur is currently purchasing Kashmal roots. While the department has permitted harvesting from private land until March 31st, any exploitation of government land will invite strict action.

For now, the Kashmal plant stands at a crossroads—between its role as a source of livelihood and its importance as a pillar of the ecosystem. The challenge lies in finding a balance that protects both the environment and the communities that depend on it.