The Odisha Bamboo Development Agency (OBDA) celebrated World Bamboo Day 2026 at Anandaban in Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, with a focus on promoting bamboo-based livelihoods, innovation and sustainable economic development.

Forest, Environment and Climate Change and Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia attended the event as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister highlighted bamboo as a renewable and fast-growing resource with applications across several sectors, including construction, furniture, handicrafts, lifestyle products, packaging and food products. He said bamboo has significant potential to generate rural livelihoods and contribute to the development of a green and circular economy.

Bamboo Haat Inaugurated

The Bamboo Haat developed at Anandaban under the Odisha Forestry Sector Development Project (OFSDP) was inaugurated during the celebration.

The facility will provide a platform for displaying, promoting and selling bamboo products. It is expected to help artisans, entrepreneurs, self-help groups and small traders connect with customers and expand their market reach.

A short documentary showcasing the activities and achievements of OBDA was also screened during the event. It highlighted the agency’s work in bamboo cultivation, processing, value addition, training and employment generation.

Officials also shared information on OBDA’s ongoing activities and plans for the coming year.

Bamboo Product Innovation Competition

As part of the World Bamboo Day celebrations, OBDA organised the Bamboo Product Innovation Competition 2026 at Anandaban on September 17 and 18.

Participants from Odisha, Kerala, Assam and Delhi showcased innovative bamboo products, designs and ideas during the competition. The winners were felicitated at the main event.

Odisha’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Dr K. Murugesan, attended the programme as the guest of honour.

Director of KONBAC Sanjeev Karpe and State Mission Director of OBDA Karthik V. were also present, along with bamboo farmers, artisans, self-help groups, entrepreneurs, designers, NGOs, researchers, government officials and business representatives.

The event highlighted Odisha’s efforts to promote bamboo cultivation, value-added products, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood opportunities through the bamboo sector.

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