Mizoram CM Lalduhoma highlights bamboo’s potential to boost the local economy and create jobs. With new processing units under the National Bamboo Mission, Mizoram moves towards sustainable bamboo-based industry, reducing deforestation and generating employment through eco-friendly charcoal and vinegar production.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday underlined the immense economic and environmental potential of bamboo, calling it a key resource that could significantly boost the state’s economy and generate substantial employment. Speaking at the inauguration of key bamboo processing units at the Sairang Horticulture Centre, the Chief Minister highlighted the transformative role bamboo can play when harnessed efficiently and sustainably.
The newly inaugurated facilities, established under the National Bamboo Mission with a funding of ₹252.826 lakh, include a bamboo treatment and seasoning plant, a bamboo depot and godown, and an activated charcoal unit. These units aim to advance bamboo-based industrial activity in Mizoram and position bamboo as a sustainable alternative to traditional wood-based industries.
CM Lalduhoma emphasized that bamboo’s rapid regeneration—within one to two years—makes it a highly renewable resource, unlike wood, which takes decades to regrow. He pointed out that the use of bamboo for charcoal production could significantly reduce deforestation and protect the natural environment. “Bamboo charcoal production is not only sustainable but also environmentally friendly,” the Chief Minister said.
The activated charcoal unit has a production capacity of three tonnes of charcoal per day, amounting to approximately 900 tonnes annually. Each day, around 670 bamboo culms are required for operation. Additionally, 100 litres of vinegar is produced daily as a byproduct, which, after proper distillation, yields up to 54 litres of refined vinegar.
Highlighting the broader impact, Lalduhoma called for efficient and responsible management of the new units to ensure their long-term success and contribute meaningfully to Mizoram’s economy. He also praised the involvement of the North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC), which is providing technical assistance and training to support these initiatives.
Horticulture Minister C. Lalsawivunga echoed the Chief Minister’s sentiments, noting that Mizoram is rich in bamboo resources and that the state has entered a new era in bamboo processing. He affirmed that the utilisation of bamboo would be carried out sustainably.
C. H. Lalmuanpuia, Director of Horticulture and Missions Director of the State Bamboo Mission, stated that the bamboo treatment plant is essential for enhancing the utility and lifespan of bamboo products, with properly treated bamboo lasting up to 50 years.
To ensure a steady supply of raw material, three bamboo clusters—Chhingchhip, Baktawng, and Saiphal villages—have been established. These villages will supply bamboo culms to the processing units regularly.
With about 28% of India’s bamboo forests located in the Northeast, Mizoram and its neighbouring states like Tripura have immense potential to become leaders in the bamboo economy. The latest initiative underlines Mizoram’s commitment to tapping into this green resource to drive economic growth, create jobs, and protect the environment.
