Workshop in West Tripura boosts bamboo cultivators’ livelihoods under SUNIL Programme, focusing on training, biochar innovation, value addition, and market strategies with NBIRT and DST support, empowering rural communities through sustainable bamboo development initiatives.
A focused effort to strengthen rural livelihoods and promote sustainable bamboo-based economies unfolded in West Tripura, where a hands-on workshop brought cultivators, experts, and institutional stakeholders onto a common platform.
The programme, titled “Improving Livelihoods of Bamboo Cultivators,” was organized by the NB Institute for Rural Technology (NBIRT) at ARKANEER, Sekerkote, on April 18, 2026. Conducted under the SUNIL Project, the initiative is supported by the SEED Division of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, aiming to empower bamboo growers through technical knowledge, innovation, and market integration.
The session commenced with an introductory address by Sri Anup Dey, Project Officer of the SUNIL Programme at NBIRT. He outlined the purpose of the workshop and emphasized the importance of collaborative learning in enhancing productivity and income for bamboo cultivators.
The inaugural session was led virtually by eminent scientist and Honorary President of NBIRT, Prof. (Dr.) S. P. Gon Chaudhury, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he elaborated on the broader objectives of the SUNIL Programme, highlighting its role in building economic resilience among bamboo cultivators. He presented a strategic roadmap focused on self-reliance, underlining the need for structured technical training and capacity-building initiatives.
Prof. Chaudhury also emphasized sustainable innovations, particularly the development of biochar using advanced technologies in collaboration with Visva Bharati University and NBIRT. He stressed that integrating scientific advancements with traditional practices can significantly strengthen the bamboo sector while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Following the inaugural session, Er. Kapil Baran Bhowmik, Co-Principal Investigator of the project, provided an in-depth overview of SUNIL Project activities. He highlighted the tangible benefits available to cultivators, including improved processing techniques, better yield management, and enhanced income opportunities. He also underscored the importance of bamboo treatment methods to increase durability and market value, encouraging participants to stay connected with the NBIRT SUNIL office for ongoing support.
A key highlight of the workshop was the technical session conducted by guest lecturer Mr. Atanu Saha, Deputy Conservator of Forest at the ICFRE – Livelihood Extension Centre, Gandhigram, Agartala. His session focused on value addition in bamboo products and practical marketing strategies to help cultivators access wider markets. The session included a live demonstration, offering participants practical exposure to modern techniques.
Mr. Saha also introduced participants to various bamboo species found in Tripura and explained their diverse applications, ranging from construction to handicrafts. His session was well received, with participants actively engaging in discussions and seeking clarifications.
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The workshop witnessed participation from around 30 bamboo cultivators from Sekerkote and Bikramnagar gram panchayat areas, along with stakeholders and beneficiaries from the sector. Interactive discussions enabled participants to gain insights into improved cultivation techniques, value chain development, and market linkages.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a successful step toward strengthening the bamboo-based rural economy and enhancing livelihood opportunities through innovation and institutional support.
