The Balipara Foundation in collaboration with Women’s Welfare Society held the Tripura Regional Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics Forum on May 3, highlighting the importance of bamboo biodiversity and its biodiversity. It emphasized the indispensable role of bamboo, showcasing how its absence would impact various aspects of life and ecosystems.
The Forum, attended by key stakeholders like the Tripura Biodiversity Board, Tripura Bamboo Mission, North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Limited (NEDFI), Tripura Bamboo and Cane Development Centre (TRIBAC), and Women’s Welfare Society, highlighted the importance of bamboo in the lives of artisans and its potential in various initiatives. They emphasized the benefits of recognizing bamboo as a valuable asset for communities and ecosystems, emphasizing its significant role in the lives of artisans. Smt. Anima Das from the Tripura Biodiversity highlighted “Sustainable harvesting practices are vital to meet demand while preserving ecological balance. Without proper management, depletion of resources is inevitable, jeopardizing bioresources.”
Bamboo serves as a vital resource for both tribal and rural communities in Tripura, playing a significant role in their livelihoods. With approximately 149,000 artisans actively involved in producing various goods from this unique grass, its importance cannot be overstated. Tripura’s natural landscape features tropical moist deciduous forests, evergreen patches, and extensive bamboo cultivation. The state hosts 19 common bamboo species, covering 3,246 km². Despite its importance, the bamboo sector faces pressing challenges today.
