Minister Bhupendra Yadav launches NTPS, a unified system for forest goods’ transport across India (Indian Express)

  • 30 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The central government on Friday launched the National Transit Pass System (NTPS) to facilitate seamless transit of forest goods across the country through a single permit.

About the National Transit Pass System (NTPS):

  • The National Transit Pass System (NTPS) is established to facilitate the smooth transit of timber, bamboo, and other forest produce across the country.
    • Currently, transit permits are issued based on state-specific rules, leading to a fragmented system.
  • The NTPS aims to implement a "One Nation-One Pass" regime, ensuring seamless transit across the entire nation.
  • This initiative streamlines the issuance of timber transit permits by providing a unified online platform for tree growers and farmers engaged in agroforestry, contributing to a more business-friendly environment.

Key Features of NTPS:

  • Unified Online Platform: The NTPS offers a unified, online mode for obtaining timber transit permits, simplifying the process for tree growers and farmers involved in agroforestry nationwide.
  • Record Management: It manages records for both inter-state and intra-state transportation of timber, bamboo, and other forest produce from various sources, including private lands, government-owned forests, and private depots.
  • QR Coded Transit Permits: The system generates QR coded transit permits, enabling check gates across states to verify the permits' validity and ensure seamless transit.
  • User-Friendly Applications: NTPS provides desktop and mobile applications for easy registration and permit applications, enhancing user convenience.
  • Regulated Species and Exemptions: Transit permits are issued for regulated tree species, while users can self-generate No Objection Certificates for exempted species.
  • State Participation: Presently, 25 States and Union Territories have adopted the unified permit system, simplifying interstate business operations for producers, farmers, and transporters.
  • Nodal Ministry: The NTPS operates under the guidance of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.