Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 11: Odisha is expanding its bamboo sector to drive green growth and rural livelihoods. The Odisha Bamboo Development Agency (OBDA) is leading the large-scale initiative across the state. Project Director V Karthick, IFS, is steering the expansion. The effort combines strategic planning, modern technology and wider bamboo cultivation.
High yielding bamboo varieties with strong commercial value are central to the plan. The agency is introducing these varieties for cultivation on a large scale. Dr. K. Murugesan, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, is guiding the programme. He also serves as Head of Forest Force. The aim is to turn raw bamboo into high value industrial products.
OBDA works as a single platform for the entire bamboo ecosystem. It links forest management with modern industrial use. The first focus is regenerating bamboo resources through planned commercial cultivation. Plantations will cover both farmlands and forest areas.
The second focus is building competitive bamboo clusters. These clusters will produce value-added goods for global markets. New processing technology will support emerging bamboo based industries. Products will range from building materials and tissue paper to furniture. Eco friendly handicrafts also form a key part of the plan.
Farmer welfare lies at the core of the mission. The agency wants growers to earn fair and steady returns. Direct links to the value chain will shield them from price swings. The initiative also aims to secure livelihoods for rural and tribal communities. Many of these families have long depended on bamboo for income.
Women are set to play a leading role in the value chain. Training, skill development and micro enterprise support are being offered to them. Women artisans and self-help groups will drive value addition. With these steps, Odisha aims to emerge as a major bamboo hub. The push could make bamboo a pillar of the state’s green economy.
