Is the Maharashtra government ready to implement a bamboo industry policy?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra government is set to launch a groundbreaking bamboo industry policy aimed at fostering a sustainable market for bamboo cultivation. This initiative promises to impact farmers positively while addressing climate challenges. CM Fadnavis emphasizes the importance of bamboo as a sustainable crop, heralding a new era for agriculture in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra's bamboo industry policy aims to create a sustainable market.
- Bamboo can mitigate the effects of climate change for farmers.
- The Bamboo Mission will be implemented on a mission basis.
- Farmers will be supported through MahaGenco.
- Integrated ecosystems are essential for bamboo cultivation.
Mumbai, Sep 19 (NationPress) On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed that the Maharashtra government is set to roll out its bamboo industry policy, with a strong emphasis on establishing a sustainable market aimed at encouraging bamboo farming.
He added that cultivating bamboo can effectively address the challenges posed by climate change in agriculture. This announcement was made during the Bamboo Conference hosted by the Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) and Phoenix Foundation in Mumbai.
CM Fadnavis declared that the state will implement the Bamboo Mission in Maharashtra with a mission-oriented approach.
According to him, bamboo presents a crucial opportunity to transform the lives of farmers. This crop can serve as a sustainable solution for farmers grappling with the adverse effects of climate change. He compared bamboo to sugarcane in terms of its potential benefits.
Once established, bamboo requires minimal maintenance. “While crops like cotton and soybean suffer from the impacts of climate change, bamboo can mitigate these effects,” he noted.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of fostering an integrated ecosystem to motivate farmers to grow bamboo. Additionally, attention must be given to the demand and supply chain of bamboo.
“Bamboo takes three years to yield, which is quite lengthy, so researchers should pursue varieties that produce in two years. Planting Napier grass alongside bamboo could be beneficial,” he stated.
He also announced that bamboo products will be incorporated into the state’s procurement policy to stimulate bamboo production.
“We will focus on bamboo cultivation in districts with energy projects. A significant campaign for bamboo farming on government fallow lands is planned. Furthermore, we aim to plant 5,000 trees in Gadchiroli to support the local ecosystem,” the Chief Minister elaborated.
Farmers will receive encouragement to cultivate bamboo via the state-run power generation company MahaGenco, similar to the MNREGA model, and a comprehensive plan will be developed for this initiative.
“The state government will also set the market and pricing for bamboo. A policy will be crafted through the Energy Department to provide a market for bamboo products,” he concluded.
Point of View
The Maharashtra government's initiative to promote bamboo cultivation reflects a proactive approach to sustainable agriculture. This policy not only addresses the urgent need for climate resilience in farming but also empowers farmers by providing them with viable alternatives. Such measures could serve as a model for other states, aligning agricultural practices with environmental sustainability.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the bamboo industry policy?
The bamboo industry policy aims to create a sustainable market for bamboo cultivation in Maharashtra, benefiting farmers and addressing climate change challenges.
How long does it take for bamboo to yield?
Bamboo typically takes three years to yield, but there are efforts to develop varieties that can yield in two years.
How will farmers be supported in this initiative?
Farmers will be encouraged to cultivate bamboo through the state-run power generation company MahaGenco, and a comprehensive plan will be formulated for their support.
What environmental benefits does bamboo offer?
Bamboo can help mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture, providing farmers with a sustainable crop option.
Will bamboo products be included in government procurement?
Yes, bamboo products will be incorporated into the state government's procurement policy to promote production.
