CHANDIGARH, MAY 10 — The Punjab government has authorized the resumption of open auctions for forest property, reversing a five-decade-old policy in a move aimed at strengthening the state’s financial position. The decision follows persistent advocacy by the Punjab Retired Forest Employees Welfare Organization, which sought a more transparent and lucrative method for managing the state’s “Green Gold.”
According to a press statement released by the organization, the government has officially sanctioned the public auction of green fallen and dry standing timber through a letter dated April 16, 2026. Experts asserted that the previous system, which had been in place since the formation of the Punjab State Forest Development Corporation Limited, often prevented the treasury from realizing the full economic potential of forest resources. The return to open bidding is expected to bring the department’s sales in line with current market rates.
General Secretary Madhu Bhushan Kaura stated that the reintroduction of this system would prove economically beneficial for the province, potentially generating significant revenue for the government. He affirmed that this policy change marks a major milestone in forest department administration and transparency. Authorities maintained that the new bidding process will ensure that the real value of the state’s natural assets is reflected in the government exchequer.
