Discussions on sustainable bamboo economy took centrestage at the Northeast Bamboo Conclave held in Guwahati on Thursday as policy makers, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and innovators focused on integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology in building a “resilient and globally competitive bamboo sector”.
The northeast and a contiguous part of West Bengal account for more than 50 per cent of the bamboo resources in India.
The eight-state region of north eastern India is therefore crucial for the success of the National Bamboo Mission (NBM).
“Bamboo holds immense potential for green growth and livelihood missions in the northeast. As we align with the NBM, our focus is on fostering partnerships, driving investments, and promoting innovations that will make bamboo a cornerstone of India’s bio-economy,” said M.C. Omi Ningshen, the Managing Director of North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council.
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“Achieving this vision will require a concerted and collaborative effort. While government support and policy push will act as a catalyst, the active participation of the private sector and public sector undertakings will be crucial in unlocking investments, bringing in advanced technologies, and creating scalable market linkages,” he added.
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioning India’s first bamboo-based bioethanol plant in eastern Assam’s Numaligarh last week, experts agreed it would help boost the region’s bamboo economy. Residents of the area are also upbeat about increasing investments in establishing manufactured units for engineered bamboo, a significant alternative to wood.
The conclave was also supported by the North Eastern Council and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.
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