Guwahati: Bamboo cultivation offers a unique opportunity to improve livelihoods and contribute to environmental conservation, additional secretary, the Ministry of Rural Development Charanjit Singh noted at a symposium on July 18.
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and lndustree Foundation, held a ‘National Symposium on Bamboo’ yesterday to promote sustainable rural livelihoods, women’s empowerment and climate resilience through bamboo farming. The symposium introduced India's first comprehensive handbook on bamboo cultivation, available in seven regional languages, to equip smallholder women farmers with essential knowledge and practices. Singh and Acting Mission Director, USAID Alexandria Huerta launched the UGAO app, a digital tool providing real-time data support for women smallholder farmers.
The app will also help build a traceable supply chain for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, boosting bamboo product demand and export potential.
Additional Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development Swati Sharma stated that empowering rural women through bamboo cultivation aligns with their mission of promoting sustainable livelihoods and inclusive growth. "USAID's POWER project is empowering women and providing a successful, locally led, natural climate solution being scaled up through NRLM", she added.
Co-founder, lndustree Foundation Neelam Chhiber, said that bamboo cultivation has immense potential to transform rural economies and improve the lives of countless women.
The symposium emphasized bamboo's potential as a sustainable alternative in various industries, aiming to enhance livelihoods and significantly contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable development goals.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
