What is the National Bamboo Mission?
The National Bamboo Mission (NBM) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. It aims to promote the holistic growth of the bamboo sector through area-based, regionally differentiated strategies.
The key objectives of the mission include:
- Increasing the area under bamboo plantations in both forest and non-forest lands.
- Promoting the commercial cultivation of bamboo to enhance the income of farmers.
- Strengthening the supply chain starting from nurseries, plantations, and harvesting to processing and marketing.
- Promoting bamboo-based industries for livelihood generation and entrepreneurship.
What is BTSG – ICFRE?
The Bamboo Technical Support Group (BTSG) is an important part of the implementation framework of the National Bamboo Mission. The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the BTSG at the national level.
Role of BTSG – ICFRE:
- Acts as a technical advisory body to support and guide the states in bamboo development.
- Provides expertise in species selection, propagation techniques, and sustainable bamboo management.
- Assists in training, capacity building, and creating awareness among stakeholders.
- Supports the development of value-added products, encouraging bamboo-based innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Helps in the monitoring and evaluation of bamboo-related projects under the mission.
Impact and Significance
With its scientific support, BTSG – ICFRE plays a vital role in ensuring that bamboo cultivation and industry development are done in an eco-friendly, sustainable, and commercially viable manner. The mission also aims to reduce dependency on timber, create job opportunities, and contribute to India’s environmental conservation goals.
