Ghumarwin – The government has taken a major step to improve the lives of bamboo growers in the state by announcing the establishment of a cooperative society dedicated to this important sector. Cabinet Minister Rajesh Dharmani made this announcement during a workshop organized by the JICA Forestry Project in Ghumarwin on Saturday.
Minister Dharmani expressed his long-held belief in the importance of recognizing the efforts of bamboo product manufacturers and implementing measures to improve their financial situation. The newly established cooperative society aims to give these artisans a platform to gain visibility in the market, ultimately enhancing their economic status.
In his address to the audience, Minister Dharmani reiterated the government’s dedication to offering comprehensive support to bamboo growers, stressing the need for new strategies to create better opportunities for their livelihoods. The cooperative society, owned by bamboo growers themselves, will receive support from the state government in identifying locations along the National Highway where self-help groups can exhibit and sell their products. This strategic positioning is intended to increase visibility and market access for bamboo goods.
The minister highlighted the potential of bamboo products to generate employment opportunities and announced a proposed budget of Rs 1 crore for the project by the JICA Forestry Project, with plans for future increases.
To further assist bamboo growers, Minister Dharmani proposed organizing visits to the Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in Palampur to help them enhance their skills and knowledge.
Minister Dharmani also visited stalls showcasing products from various self-help groups associated with the JICA Forestry Project, gaining firsthand insight into the craftsmanship and dedication of bamboo growers.
Speaking at the workshop, Nagesh Kumar Guleria, Chief Project Director of JICA Forestry Project, reassured bamboo-dependent communities of the project’s commitment to providing necessary resources. Guleria promised support, stating that machinery would be provided as needed to improve bamboo-based industries, enabling products to reach markets not only in Himachal but across the country.
Yogesh Shinde, Founder and CEO of Bamboo India, provided detailed information during the workshop, explaining how bamboo products contribute to livelihoods and economic growth.
The JICA Forestry Project has allocated a budget of Rs 1 crore for the initial phase, with plans for further expansion, marking the beginning of a significant opportunity for bamboo-dependent communities to enhance their livelihoods.
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