India possesses one of the richest bamboo resources in the world, second only to China in terms of bamboo biodiversity. With more than 130 species spread across 18 genera, bamboo is found predominantly in the northeastern states, which account for nearly 66% of the country’s total bamboo stock. States like Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh are especially rich in natural bamboo forests, benefiting from a favorable climate and terrain.

Bamboo plays a vital role in rural and tribal economies, being widely used in construction, furniture, handicrafts, and as a raw material in the paper and pulp industry. In recent years, it has also gained popularity as a sustainable alternative to plastic and wood. The government has recognized its potential, leading to the establishment of the National Bamboo Mission (NBM) to promote bamboo cultivation, value addition, and market access.

Despite its abundance, the bamboo sector in India faces challenges such as underdeveloped supply chains, lack of modern processing facilities, and regulatory constraints—though some of these have been eased by amending the Indian Forest Act to classify bamboo as a grass. With strategic investments and better infrastructure, India has the potential to emerge as a global leader in bamboo-based industries, contributing to environmental sustainability and rural development.