National Bamboo Conclave Highlights Odisha’s Green Economy Push
Bhubaneswar: The National Bamboo Conclave-2026 was held in Bhubaneswar with a strong emphasis on positioning bamboo as a key driver of Odisha’s green and sustainable economy. The two-day national-level event brought together policymakers, administrators, industry leaders, bamboo farmers, artisans, researchers, architects and sustainability experts from across the country.
The conclave focused on promoting sustainable growth, livelihood generation and public awareness about the diverse applications of bamboo in everyday life. Discussions also underlined bamboo’s role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, while showcasing Odisha’s rich bamboo heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Speakers stressed the need for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to develop a resilient and inclusive bamboo-based ecosystem in the state.
In a message to the conclave, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to transforming the bamboo sector into a major contributor to economic growth and employment. He emphasised value addition, innovation and the formulation of a clear policy roadmap, calling for an Odisha-centric strategy to build a self-reliant and empowered state.
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said the conclave was not merely a discussion forum but a collective initiative to strengthen Odisha’s bamboo industry. He reiterated the government’s resolve to make Odisha one of the leading states in bamboo cultivation and bamboo-based industries. As part of this effort, the state has launched a dedicated online platform, www.odishabamboohaat.com, to facilitate the online sale of bamboo products crafted by local artisans.
MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallik said the promotion of bamboo-based industries is a key priority for the state government, noting that the sector has immense potential to boost entrepreneurship, generate employment and strengthen the rural economy through sustainable industrial growth.
Project Director of the Odisha Bamboo Development Agency, Karthick V, highlighted the historical link between bamboo trade, handicrafts and livelihoods in Odisha. Senior experts and former officials at the conclave called for structured development of the sector, recommending GIS-based surveys and mapping, improved institutional coordination, climate-resilient bamboo development, dedicated research institutions, modern processing systems and a robust supply chain.
Describing bamboo as “green gold”, speakers noted its growing importance in India’s green economy. India is the world’s second-largest producer of bamboo, with cultivation spread over nearly 13.96 million hectares and around 136 species. The Indian bamboo market, currently valued at approximately Rs 5–6 lakh crore in 2024, is projected to grow to nearly Rs 10 lakh crore by 2030, participants said.
