Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu on Thursday emphasized the need to preserve, promote and further develop traditional bamboo craftsmanship so that it can gain wider recognition and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to local artisans.

He visited the Bamboo & Cane Development Institute (BCDI) at Lichubagan, Agartala, this morning.

The visit focused on the various activities of the institute, particularly in the areas of bamboo cultivation, processing, technology, product development and quality assessment. Upon his arrival at the institute, the Governor was warmly welcomed by Dr. Abhinav Kant, In-charge of the Bamboo & Cane Development Institute (BCDI), along with his team.

The Governor visited the Bamboo Pathshala and Bamboo Nursery, where Dr. Abhinav Kant briefed him on different species of bamboo, their distinctive characteristics, cultivation practices and diverse applications. The Governor subsequently visited the Bamboo Processing & Technology Centre, where he witnessed demonstrations of various bamboo processing machinery and technologies.

He was briefed on the different stages of bamboo processing, value addition and product development undertaken at the centre. The officials also explained how modern processing technologies can enhance the quality, efficiency and commercial viability of bamboo-based products. The Governor also visited the Bamboo Product Testing Laboratory, where he was briefed about the testing facilities available at the institute for assessing the quality, strength, durability and other parameters of bamboo products.

The officials explained the importance of quality testing in ensuring that bamboo products meet prescribed standards and are suitable for wider markets. The Governor also viewed a display of bamboo products developed by BCDI, showcasing the versatility and diverse applications of bamboo. The officials briefed him about the various products developed by the institute and the scope for further innovation, value addition and commercialization of bamboo-based products.

Speaking to the media, Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu said that Tripura is blessed with a rich diversity of bamboo varieties, which have significant potential for various applications. He said that bamboo grown in Tripura is suitable for making a wide range of useful products, including javelins, fishing rods and other items. The Governor highlighted the important role being played by the Bamboo & Cane Development Institute (BCDI) in promoting the bamboo sector.

He said that the institute has been providing training to artisans and craftsmen from different parts of the country, thereby helping them acquire skills in bamboo processing and product development. He further said that the general public in Tripura is increasingly showing interest in bamboo cultivation.

He noted that the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM), at both the district and state levels, is encouraging Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to undertake the production of bamboo-based products, thereby creating opportunities for livelihood generation and entrepreneurship. The Governor urged the officials of BCDI to explore the establishment of a finished bamboo raw-material assembly centre, where artisans could easily procure processed bamboo materials and use them to manufacture a variety of products.

The Governor further said that such a facility would help artisans save time and effort while encouraging greater value addition and innovation in bamboo-based products. He also urged to use modern technology and tools for making different materials and products of bamboo. The Governor also pointed out that the making of different types of portraits and artistic products from bamboo roots is a unique craft found in Tripura.