Guwahati, April 26: Himanta Biswa Sarma on April 26 underscored the rising importance of bamboo in the Northeast’s economic landscape, echoing observations made by Narendra Modi on its transformation into a key driver of innovation and livelihoods.
Sharing remarks from the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat broadcast on social media platform X, Sarma said bamboo, once viewed as a burden, has now emerged as a symbol of progress and opportunity. He pointed to infrastructure developments, including Guwahati’s upcoming airport project, as examples of bamboo’s expanding modern-day applications.
Modi had highlighted policy reforms introduced in 2017, notably the removal of bamboo from the classification of trees, which facilitated easier cultivation and trade, thereby unlocking the sector’s economic potential.
The Prime Minister also drew attention to grassroots innovation across the region. He cited farmers such as Bijoy Sutradhar from Gomati district and Pradip Chakraborty from South Tripura district, who have adopted technology to enhance bamboo production and quality.
He further noted the contributions of self-help groups in Dimapur and nearby areas engaged in value-added bamboo-based food products, alongside initiatives like ‘Khoroulo Creative Craft’, which focus on bamboo furniture and handicrafts.
In Mamit district, efforts are underway in bamboo tissue culture and poly-house management, while in Sikkim, the ‘Lagastal Bamboo Enterprise Team’ is producing a wide range of bamboo-based items, including handicrafts, incense sticks, furniture and interior décor products.
Sarma said these developments reflect the rapid expansion of the bamboo sector across the Northeast, contributing to rural livelihoods, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth.
