u/EducationalIntern726

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to understand the legal and practical process of sourcing naturally fallen oud (agarwood) wood from forest areas in India for essential oil distillation and research purposes.

I’m not looking for illegal cutting or harvesting of protected trees—only guidance on how one can legally obtain permission for collection, purchase, or auction of naturally available agarwood/oud wood through proper government channels.

I would like to know:

1.	Which department handles this — Forest Department, Transit Permit Office, or any other authority?

2.	Is there any legal way to collect naturally fallen agarwood from forest land with permission?

3.	Are there government auctions, licensed sellers, or approved sources for this material?

4.	What permits are required if the purpose is steam distillation for essential oil production?

5.	Are there state-wise differences in rules (especially in  Assam, or Northeast India)?

I run a small essential oil/spice-related business and want to stay fully compliant with forest and environmental laws.

If anyone has experience with forest produce permits, agarwood sourcing, or legal distillation permissions, I’d really appreciate your guidance.

Thank you.