Red sanders (Red sandalwood) ( UPSC Prelims)

News Context

The National Biodiversity Authority has approved funding for the conservation of Red Sanders through the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Mechanism.
 About Red Sanders:
  ● Habitat: Indigenous to the Southern Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.  
      ○ Thrives in dry deciduous forests at altitudes ranging from 150-900 meters.
      ○ The presence of the red dye "Santalin" gives it its distinctive red color.
 Uses: Employed in the creation of fine furniture, musical instruments, ayurveda, and produces a natural red dye.
 Threats: Faces challenges from illegal logging and smuggling.