Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has described bamboo as one of the state's greatest natural strengths, capable of driving sustainable economic growth, entrepreneurship, employment generation, and environmental conservation, according to an official report.
Inauguration of Bamboo Technology Centre
Speaking after inaugurating the AP Bamboo & Cane Technology Centre at Gungu near Itanagar, Khandu said the newly opened centre will play a pivotal role in transforming Arunachal's vast bamboo resources into value-added products. It will also create livelihood opportunities for local youth, artisans, self-help groups, and entrepreneurs.
Bamboo: Integral to Tribal Life
Describing bamboo as an inseparable part of tribal life and culture, Khandu noted that bamboo has been deeply woven into the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the state for generations. "Bamboo is not a new subject for us. Long before modern institutions came into existence, bamboo played a central role in the lives of our tribal communities. Across all 26 major tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, bamboo remains an integral part of daily life, culture, and tradition," he said.
The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo Resources and Development Agency (APBRDA), the forest department, and all stakeholders involved in establishing the technology centre. He said the facility would serve as a hub for innovation, skill development, value addition, and commercialization of bamboo-based products.
Technological Advancements in Bamboo
Referring to recent technological advancements in bamboo processing, Khandu observed that bamboo is no longer limited to traditional handicrafts and household items. It has emerged as a versatile industrial resource with applications ranging from furniture and construction materials to textiles, biofuel, and even aviation fuel.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing transformative reforms to the bamboo sector by removing bamboo from the category of trees under forest regulations and recognizing it as grass. This simplified procedures for cultivation, transportation, and commercial use.
Bamboo as 'Green Gold'
"Today, bamboo is rightly called 'Green Gold'. Arunachal Pradesh possesses the second-largest bamboo stock in the country and more than 60 bamboo species. We must harness this immense resource professionally and scientifically for the benefit of our people," Khandu said.
The CM emphasized that the technology centre will help local communities tap into the economic potential of bamboo while ensuring environmental conservation. He urged stakeholders to work collectively to make Arunachal a leader in bamboo-based industries.
