Chhattisgarh govt takes special initiatives to boost bamboo industry and katang bamboo cultivation
Raipur: Chief minister Bhupesh Baghel is undertaking special initiatives in line with his vision to promote the bamboo industry along with the cultivation of katang bamboo in Chhattisgarh. As part of a project prepared by the Forest department, the cultivation of katang bamboo will begin on nearly two lakh acres.
A detailed presentation focusing on bamboo cultivation and its utility was given in the meeting of the forest department chaired by chief minister Bhupesh Baghel at his residence office on Monday evening. The presentation highlighted the vast possibilities for bamboo cultivation and its industries in Chhattisgarh. Consequently, a comprehensive plan is being chalked out to boost bamboo cultivation and promote the bamboo industry in Chhattisgarh, following Baghel’s directives. This plan will play a significant role in enhancing the prosperity of farmers, mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, and contributing to environmental improvement.
During the meeting, the forest department explained in their presentation that bamboo cultivation is highly profitable and an excellent alternative to timber. There is a vast international market for bamboo, and its demand is consistently increasing. The bamboo industry generates various types of employment opportunities. The initial cost of bamboo plantation is incurred only once, and it remains unaffected by seasonal variations, making it a relatively risk-free investment. Bamboo cultivation is beneficial for water conservation and soil conservation as well. Additionally, it promotes greenery and helps maintain temperature balance, making it environmentally beneficial.
Present at the meeting were Forest and Climate Change Minister Mohammad Akbar, Parliamentary Secretaries Shishupal Sori and Chandradev Rai, Chief Minister’s Advisor Pradeep Sharma, Forest Department Principal Secretary Manoj Pingua, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests V Srinivasa Rao along with departmental officials Alok Tiwari, Dilraj Prabhakar, Mayank Agarwal and bamboo entrepreneur Debopam Mukherjee.
