Odisha unveils bamboo & medicinal plant roadmap
Bhubaneswar, Nov 20 (UNI) Odisha Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, on Wednesday, emphasised the need for a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen bamboo and medicinal plant-based livelihoods in the state.
The roadmap, he said, should focus on conservation, cultivation, value addition, and market integration.
Speaking at a national conference organised by the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, the Minister noted that bamboo and medicinal plants have long been integral to the daily lives of tribal communities and forest dwellers.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to promoting sustainable and herbal sectors.
The Minister stated that the government aims to transform these traditional resources into modern, economically viable trades, while ensuring environmental balance.
Highlighting bamboo’s growing global relevance, he described it as a key component of green industries.
The world, Singh Khuntia said, is now moving towards environment-friendly structures and natural fibres, and bamboo is naturally aligned with this shift.
He also noted that Odisha’s artisans possess traditional skills and creativity, but require better equipment, improved designs, wider markets, and regular training.
The Minister expressed hope that the conference would help develop a detailed roadmap to support them.
Calling medicinal plants another “gift of the forest,” Singhkhuntia acknowledged the deep traditional knowledge held by tribal communities and Vaidyas (traditional healers).
With proper scientific guidance, he said, this knowledge can be enriched for the benefit of thousands of families.
The Minister also stressed the need for cluster development, strengthening nurseries, farmer training, and providing direct support to farmers and self-help groups at the grassroots level.
Several MoUs were signed during the event between OBDA and KFRI, INBAR, NID, and between SMPB and FRLHT (TDU), MSSRF, and IRMA. These agreements aim to boost scientific research, design innovation, conservation efforts, and herbal product commercialisation.
The Odisha Bamboo Haat website was also launched to promote digital marketing.