Growth of bamboo sector in NE gets spotlight in PM’s Mann Ki Baat

Agartala: PM Narendra Modi highlighted the growth of the bamboo sector in the northeast and shared inspiring success stories of two young entrepreneurs from Tripura during the 133rd episode of his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday.The PM underscored the synergy between nature and humanity and praised the immense potential of the northeast, while demonstrating the development of the bamboo sector in the region.Modi cited examples of Bijoy Sutradhar from Gomati district and south Tripura’s Pradeep Chakraborty, who have incorporated technology into their work to produce superior bamboo products.The PM said the newfound growth in the bamboo sector is a notable accomplishment for the northeast.

What was once considered a burden is now transforming lives by creating opportunities for employment, business and innovation, with women being among the primary beneficiaries.Modi said the shift in the sector stemmed from redefining bamboo in legal terms. Under British colonial rule, bamboo was categorised as a tree, which led to strict regulations that hindered its transportation. Consequently, many in the region distanced themselves from bamboo-related work.

However, after the law was amended in 2017 to remove bamboo from the tree category, the sector began to thrive in northeast.Modi praised initiatives in and around Dimapur in Nagaland, where self-help groups have focused on adding value to bamboo-based food products. In Mizoram’s Mamit district, teams are working on bamboo tissue culture and poly-house management. He also highlighted the Lagastal Bamboo Enterprise Team near Gangtok in Sikkim, which produces handicrafts, incense sticks, furniture, and interior decor items utilising bamboo.The PM concluded by urging citizens to support northeastern artisans by purchasing bamboo products.