VIA Agro Food : Workshop on “Bamboo – Opportunities in the Vidarbha”

Empowering Farmers through Bamboo organized by VIA Agro Rural Development & Food Processing Forum

The Agro Rural Development & Food Processing Forum of Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) successfully organized a dynamic one-day discussion session focused on “Unlocking the Potential of Bamboo”, aiming to connect Vidarbha’s farmers with cutting-edge technologies, advanced processing techniques, and emerging development opportunities in the bamboo sector.

The event was graced by eminent personalities, with P. Kalyan Kumar, IFS, Managing Director, Maharashtra Bamboo Development Board (MBDB), serving as the Chief Guest. Esteemed experts such as Dr. Lal Singh (Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur), Dr. Nirupama Deshpande (President, Sampoorna Bamboo Kendra, Amravati), and Mr. Rahul Deshmukh (President, Bharat Bamboo Association) added great value with their insights and experiences.

Dr. Lal Singh presented a comprehensive overview of the global and Indian diversity of bamboo species, focusing particularly on the Vidarbha region. He detailed the commercial viability of various species and shared practical guidelines on plantation techniques, pit preparation, and nutriment management. Rahul Deshmukh provided deep insights into bamboo commercialization, emphasizing marketing strategies, product pricing, and value-added product development. He also showcased inspiring success stories from his organization’s initiatives.

Dr. Nirupama Deshpande illustrated how the tribal communities of Melghat and Dharni have transformed their livelihoods through bamboo-based enterprises. Their handcrafted products have found markets in the USA, France, Germany, and beyond, improving the lives of over 500 families. She also conducted a live demonstration of bamboo products and expressed her eagerness to train more farmers and entrepreneurs.

Anand Indulkar, an industry veteran with 18 years of senior leadership experience in Bahrain’s ammonia and petroleum sectors, emphasized the surging global demand for bamboo-based biochar, opening new horizons for bamboo growers.

Dr. Illurkar (PKV) shared his valuable perspectives on the importance and future potential of bamboo cultivation in the Indian agricultural landscape.

Chief Guest P. Kalyan Kumar enlightened the audience on the objectives and initiatives under the National Bamboo Mission and the Atal Bamboo Mission. He explained the available subsidy schemes, investment opportunities, and how market linkages are being created to promote bamboo farming, especially on unused or absentee-owned lands.

The session was expertly anchored by Project Director, Sanjay Sinha, whose smooth and engaging hosting set the tone for the event.

The seamless execution of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the VIA Agro Forum Team – Aniruddh Ansigkar, Laxmikant Padole, Dr. Kirti Sirothia, Dr Rina Saha and Shachi Mallick, Convener of the Forum.

Special support was extended by Forum Chairman Om Jajodia, whose presence added great encouragement to the gathering.

The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Kapil Sahoo, followed by a networking high tea and snacks, offering participants an opportunity to discuss ideas and explore future collaborations.

The session proved to be an enriching platform, opening new possibilities for bamboo cultivation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development in Vidarbha.
VIA Agro Rural Development & Food Processing Forum remains committed to empowering farmers with knowledge, innovation, and global opportunities.

Dear VIA Members &
Agri Entrepreneurs

VIA Agro Food : Workshop on “Bamboo – Opportunities in the Vidarbha”
26th April | 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm | VIA Auditorium

VIA Agro Food Processing & Rural Development Forum is organizing a Workshop on “Bamboo – Opportunities in the Vidarbha” on Saturday, 26th April, 2025 from 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm at VIA Auditorium, Udyog Bhawan, Civil Lines, Nagpur – 440 001.

This workshop aims to create awareness and build a collaboration on bamboo’s potential as a sustainable industrial resource in Vidarbha, focusing on its ecological, economic, and livelihood benefits. It will explore government support, market opportunities, and pathways for bamboo-based industries and rural development.