“Bamboo plantation may play a significant role in boosting rural economy and increasing income of farmers. Unique collection of rare bamboo species at Green Bamboo Nursery is a commendable job of its Director Subhash Bhatia. The innovative collection and hard work of Bhatia is an inspiration for farmers to increase their income and a big contribution for environment protection,” said Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj. Union Minister Giriraj Singh, accompanied by Union Minister of State for Food Processing and Jal Shakti, Prahlad Singh Patel, said this during his visit at Green Bamboo Nursery in Ghana village, on Sunday. Union Minister Giriraj Singh informed that he visited several places in North-East states but collection of 61 bamboo species available at Green Bamboo Nursery is unique in the country.

 

He applauded successful plantation of rare species like Bambuas Tulda, Babbusa Nutans, D Asper, D Brandisai and Bambusa Polymorpha. He also urged the nursery director for supplying these species for its promotion in other parts of the country. He added that bamboo plantation is multi-dimensional benefits as its active charcoal has 9-14 per cent growth rate which is used for purification works in industries while ethanol and bamboo furniture are profitable ventures for bamboo industry. Farmers can take 100 tonnes harvesting after 4-5 years with Rs 3 to 5 lakh income per acre and also increase export and employment. Boost in bamboo plantation will automatically cut back felling of tree for furniture. He appreciated efforts of Subhash Bhatia and said that such kind of innovative projects will definitely prove a milestone in doubling the income of farmers.