Agartala, September 25: Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu on Thursday suggested setting up a dedicated centre to supply processed bamboo materials to artisans, saying easier access to finished raw materials could encourage innovation, value addition and wider commercial use of bamboo products.
Nallu made the suggestion during his visit to the Bamboo & Cane Development Institute (BCDI) at Lichubagan in Agartala, where he took stock of the institute’s work in bamboo cultivation, processing, technology, testing and product development.
At the Bamboo Pathshala and Bamboo Nursery, BCDI In-charge Dr Abhinav Kant briefed the Governor on various bamboo species, their characteristics, cultivation methods and applications.
Nallu later visited the Bamboo Processing & Technology Centre, where he observed demonstrations of processing machinery and technology. Officials explained the different stages involved in processing bamboo and developing value-added products, including the role of modern equipment in improving quality, efficiency and commercial viability.
At the Bamboo Product Testing Laboratory, the Governor was informed about facilities for examining the strength, durability and quality of bamboo products. Officials explained that testing helps ensure compliance with prescribed standards and facilitates access to larger markets.
Nallu also went through a display of products developed by BCDI and discussed the scope for diversification, innovation and commercialisation of bamboo-based items.
Speaking to reporters, the Governor said Tripura’s rich variety of bamboo offered substantial potential for manufacturing products for diverse applications. He cited javelins, fishing rods and other utility items among the products that could be developed from bamboo available in the state.
He also highlighted BCDI’s role in building skills among artisans and craftsmen, noting that the institute provides training to participants from different parts of the country in bamboo processing and product development.
Nallu said interest in bamboo cultivation was increasing among people in Tripura and referred to the efforts of the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) to encourage Self-Help Groups at the state and district levels to take up bamboo-based activities.
He said a processed raw-material supply facility could help artisans reduce the time and effort involved in preparing bamboo for production and enable them to concentrate more on manufacturing and product development.
The Governor also called for wider adoption of modern tools and technologies while preserving traditional bamboo craftsmanship. He drew attention to the distinctive practice of creating portraits and artistic products from bamboo roots in Tripura.
Nallu stressed that traditional skills should be preserved and developed alongside technological advancement so that bamboo craftsmanship can secure greater recognition and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans.
