Agartala, February 18: Maharashtra’s Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Gopinath Munde arrived in Agartala on Tuesday to gain insights into the success of Tripura’s bamboo sector, with an aim to replicate similar initiatives in her home state.
Upon her arrival, Minister Munde visited the Bamboo and Cane Development Institute (BCDI) in Agartala, where she explored various aspects of bamboo cultivation, processing, and its economic potential.
She expressed Maharashtra’s interest in adopting Tripura’s expertise in bamboo-based industries to not only boost bamboo cultivation but also create employment opportunities and promote environmental sustainability.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary of the Maharashtra Environment and Climate Change Department, Vinita Singhal, Munde toured the Bamboo Patshala, where she was introduced to different bamboo species.
She interacted with bamboo artisans, examined value-added bamboo products, and engaged with stakeholders involved in the sector.
Speaking to reporters, Munde emphasized the importance of bamboo as a sustainable alternative to timber, citing China’s extensive use of bamboo in various industries.
She highlighted Maharashtra’s intent to increase forest cover by promoting bamboo cultivation, reducing the reliance on tree felling for timber, and leveraging bamboo’s potential in construction, firewood substitution, and industrial applications.
Munde, who is on a two days visit to Tripura, further stated that after thoroughly understanding the ecological and industrial applications of bamboo, Maharashtra would explore the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tripura government. This collaboration would facilitate knowledge exchange and the implementation of Tripura’s successful bamboo model in Maharashtra.
“Bamboo has immense potential not just as an environmental safeguard but also as an economic driver. With proper modifications, it can be effectively utilized in the construction sector and can generate employment for rural communities,” she said.
Tripura’s bamboo sector has witnessed remarkable growth, contributing significantly to the state’s economy while promoting sustainable practices.
With Maharashtra expressing keen interest in replicating this model, the visit marks a significant step towards inter-state collaboration for environmental conservation and economic development.
