Bamboo, often referred to as “green gold,” is a versatile and fast-growing grass with immense economic and ecological potential. The National Bamboo Mission (NBM), launched in 2006-07 and restructured in 2018, is a flagship initiative aimed at developing a comprehensive and sustainable bamboo sector in India.
Key Objectives of the NBM
- Increasing Bamboo Production: Expand the area under bamboo cultivation, especially outside of traditional forest areas, to meet rising demand.
- Post-Harvest Management: Establish modern processing units for value addition, reduce wastage, and enhance market value.
- Entrepreneurship and Skill Development: Promote bamboo-based industries, provide training and skill development for stakeholders, and create employment opportunities.
- Research and Technology: Support research on new bamboo varieties, improved cultivation techniques, and innovative product development.
- Market Linkages: Develop robust domestic and international market linkages for bamboo and its value-added products.
Impact of the NBM
- Green Cover Boost: NBM has contributed to an increase in bamboo-forest cover alongside traditional forest areas.
- Livelihood Generation: Boosts income generation for farmers, tribal communities, and artisans involved in the bamboo sector.
- Import Substitution: Reduces the reliance on wood and wood-based products, decreasing pressure on forests.
- Eco-friendly Products: Promotes bamboo as a sustainable and alternative material for construction, furniture, handicrafts, and more.
Success Stories under NBM
- Rural Entrepreneurs in Tripura: Tribal communities in Tripura have been trained and supported in setting up bamboo processing units, creating value-added products and sustainable livelihoods.
- Bamboo Housing Projects in disaster-prone areas demonstrate the viability of bamboo as a strong, affordable, and eco-friendly construction material.
FAQs About the NBM
- Who can benefit from the NBM? Farmers, entrepreneurs, artisans, tribal communities, forest dwellers, and others across the bamboo value chain.
- How to get involved in NBM programs? Information and support are available through NBM state agencies, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and relevant government departments.
MCQs
- The primary focus of the National Bamboo Mission is the development of:
- A. The timber industry
- B. Textile industry
- C. The bamboo sector
- D. Wildlife conservation
- Which of these is NOT a direct benefit of bamboo cultivation?
- A. Soil and water conservation
- B. Reduced flooding
- C. Mitigating climate change
- D. Increased air pollution