Nagaland observes World Bamboo Day for sustainable future

Dimapur: The Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA) on Wednesday observed World Bamboo Day on the theme “Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation and Design” at the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre in Chumoukedima district.

The event aimed at inspiring people to make use of bamboo for a more sustainable future.

NBDA chairman Nuzota Swuro hoisted the ceremonial flag on the occasion.

In his address, Swuro said the NBDA - established in 2004 - is venturing into innovative, creative, sustainable, and entrepreneur development-oriented horizons.

Swuro said apart from normal activities, an action plan of priorities has already been implemented as a flagship programme with Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima and Peren districts marked as bamboo economic zones.

He said the NBDA has identified 46 locally grown bamboo species and plans to go for their lab tests and analysis.

“This will offer scientific data thus enabling us to utilise locally grown bamboo for the artisans to extract raw material as their resource,” Swuro added.

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Speaking on the occasion, NBDA team member Tolto Metha said bamboo is an important green resource from various contexts for Nagaland, covering every strata of the society.

Taking cognizance of this appreciable fact, he said, the NBDA has been taking steps to harness the potential of bamboo and its benefits, following the guidelines of the National Bamboo Mission.

Metha said within its short period of existence, the NBDA has successfully roped in many entrepreneurs on board in all its major production initiatives, including bamboo handicrafts and furniture, bamboo shoots, bamboo charcoal, bamboo mats, bamboo incense sticks and bamboo blinds, among others.

He said the agency has been reaching out to the local artisans, farmers and various self-help groups through assistance, training and skill upgradation.

Metha said another major initiative of the NBDA is its marketing strategy which looks at collaborating with the private marketing houses and entrepreneurs, adding, it has also been creating awareness on the ecological benefits of bamboo through various campaigns involving NGOs, students, and green innovators.

On the occasion, the ‘Bamboo Entrepreneur Award 2024’ was presented to Aosanen from Dimapur for his bamboo craft and outstanding product innovation.