The Palakkad Timber Sales Division is introducing Letters of Appreciation for the ‘highest bidder of the month’ and the ‘highest bidder of the year’. This move aims to encourage healthy competition and attract more participants in teak auctions. K. Ashraf, Divisional Forest Officer, said the division currently holds a large stock of high-quality teak logs at Walayar, Nedumgayam, and Aruvacode depots. The timber comes from plantations grown in 1962-63, making the trees 60-65 years old with superior-grade teak. "Nearly 6,000 cubic metres of additional fresh teak logs are expected before March," Ashraf said, which will strengthen supply across all depots. Known worldwide, Nilambur teak is prized for its strength, termite resistance, fine grain, golden-brown color, and long life. These traits make it perfect for premium furniture, structural uses, and interior work. Demand is rising across Kerala and India. Recent auctions for Export ‘B’ and ‘C’ quality logs have recorded some of the highest prices ever. Auctions are run on the MSTC e-commerce portal for transparency and wider reach. Four online auctions take place monthly. Individual buyers pay ₹590 registration to buy up to eight cubic metres, while traders pay ₹5,900 with no quantity limit. About 350 buyers, including those from outside Kerala, are registered. There is also a retail auction at each depot for domestic use. Buyers building homes can buy up to five cubic metres per depot after verifying building plans and local permits. A single national transit pass allows timber transport across India, easing movement for buyers. Ashraf revealed that the division made ₹60 crore in timber revenue this year and targets ₹80 crore next year thanks to stock growth and steady demand. He said, "The steady supply of mature teak, pre-March stock arrivals, and transparent auction systems—now with bidder awards—will boost market confidence and expand nationwide teak demand."