World Bamboo Day 2024 highlights ‘Next Generation Bamboo’
Under the theme “Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and Design,” the Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA) celebrated World Bamboo Day 2024 at the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre, Sovima, on 18 September. The event focused on the future potential of bamboo in Nagaland, showcasing plans for innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
The special guest of the event, NBDA Chairman Nuzota Swuro, kicked off the celebration by hoisting the World Bamboo Day flag in the presence of officials. In his address, Swuro reflected on the agency’s two-decade journey since its inception in 2004. He paid tribute to the pioneers who turned the idea of the NBDA into a reality and highlighted the organization’s commitment to exploring “new horizons” as it enters its third decade.
Swuro emphasized that the NBDA’s future will focus on innovative, sustainable, and entrepreneurial development. To achieve this, the agency is actively consulting with local farmers, entrepreneurs, and experts to ensure that bamboo becomes a cornerstone of economic growth in Nagaland.
The chairman also shared key updates, including the identification of 46 local bamboo species, which will undergo scientific research and lab testing. This research aims to generate valuable data that can help artisans and entrepreneurs make the most of Nagaland’s abundant bamboo resources. Swuro emphasized that these innovations could boost both local and global markets for bamboo products.
A significant highlight of the event was the announcement of Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, and Peren districts being designated as bamboo economic zones. These areas will see concentrated bamboo plantations, with plans to support future industrial units. “With the resource development there is a plan to feed industrial units in the near future and conduct resource mapping of bamboo in the State so that factual assessment can be done to prepare the action plan,” he added. Swuro pointed out that this will not only create sustainable employment but also drive economic growth in the region.
However, Swuro also addressed some of the challenges faced by bamboo farmers and artisans in remote areas. Transporting bamboo to markets is often costly due to the hilly terrain, making it difficult for artisans to turn a profit. To tackle this, the NBDA has proposed setting up common facility centers in rural areas, which will process bamboo products locally, making transportation more cost-effective.
Swuro praised local artisans, particularly women, for their exceptional craftsmanship in bamboo-based products. He highlighted that women artisans, known for their design and finishing skills, would receive special attention in future development plans. Skill development programs and financial assistance will be offered to help them compete in larger markets and elevate their economic standing.
Swuro mentioned that the team plan to develop market linkage with modern technology of networking, which will help entrepreneurs, access to the marketing world. Also informed that they have approach some financial institutions and vigorously perusing them for funding sources. He hoped some will be finalised very soon under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio and NBDA team will be able to take the State Bamboo Mission to a greater heights.
Tolto Metha, a team member of NBDA, delivered a note on the significance of bamboo, emphasizing its value across different sectors in Nagaland. He outlined the agency’s efforts to leverage bamboo’s potential, aligning with the National Bamboo Mission and the National Mission on Bamboo Applications. Since its establishment, NBDA has made significant strides, bringing numerous entrepreneurs into its fold and advancing initiatives in bamboo handicrafts, furniture, charcoal, mats, incense sticks, and blinds, he said.
Metha pointed out that NBDA has achieved several commendable milestones in its short period of existence. The Agency has successfully engaged many entrepreneurs in major production initiatives, including bamboo handicrafts and furniture, bamboo shoots, bamboo charcoal, bamboo mats, bamboo incense sticks, and bamboo blinds. Across the State, the Agency has been reaching out to local artisans, farmers, and various Self-Help Groups through assistance, training, and skill development. Another major initiative of NBDA is its marketing strategy, which involves collaborating with private marketing houses and entrepreneurs and has begun to show visible progress. Additionally, the Agency has been creating awareness about the ecological benefits of bamboo through various campaigns involving NGOs, students, and green innovators.
Metha emphasized that the theme explores how bamboo can be utilized in modern and inventive ways to address various challenges and enhance our world. He added that “Next Generation Bamboo” highlights the importance of updating and applying bamboo in the modern world. It encourages the development of innovative bamboo solutions and the creation of new designs that leverage this adaptable plant.
Given bamboo’s rapid growth and sustainability, focusing on fresh solutions and designs allows us to use it to reduce waste, construct eco-friendly buildings, and support local economies. World Bamboo Day 2024 aims to inspire people to think of and present new, exciting applications of bamboo for a more sustainable future.
The ‘Bamboo Entrepreneur Award 2024’ was presented to Aosanen from Dimapur for his outstanding bamboo craft and product innovation.
The day’s program began with a welcome address by NBDA Mission Director Elbert Ezung. A special song was performed by TRIUM ANIMA, followed by a vote of thanks from NBDA team member Dr. Likhase Sangta. The event featured a two-session workshop, with Aku Zeliang, Creative Director of Cane Concept and Founder of Urra Designs & Objects, discussing “Entrepreneurship and Market Linkages,” and Bamboo Architect Richard Belho from Zynorique Initiatives Society presenting on “Sustainability and Livelihood.