The forest of this border district, which are a treasure trove of rare medicinal herbs, are on the verge of extinction following over-exploitation. The herbs - some of which command high prices in the international market - are fast becoming extinct thanks to Government policies coupled with the tribals' needs. The Forest Department charges a paltry Rs 5 to Rs 25 annually to issue a permit for the extraction of herbs.While locals, who depend on the herbs for their livelihood, are issued permits under the Chamba Minor Forest Produce Exploitation and Export Rules, 1947. After collecting the herbs, the locals sell them to the traders, who than sell the produce to outside markets.