Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday inaugurated a Rs 2.52 crore bamboo processing unit at the state’s horticulture centre in Sairang, near Aizawl.
The unit, established under the National Bamboo Mission, includes a bamboo treatment and seasoning plant, bamboo depot and warehouse, and an activated charcoal unit.
Speaking at the event, Lalduhoma praised the initiative as a significant step forward for bamboo-based industrial development in Mizoram.
Bamboo is a valuable resource in Mizoram, which can be utilised efficiently and sustainably, he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized that advanced processing techniques can position bamboo as a major contributor to the state’s economy, with the potential to create a substantial number of jobs.
He said that due to the rapid growth cycle and resilience of bamboo, charcoal production from bamboo is far more sustainable than wood-based charcoal production.
He added that producing charcoal from bamboo would help conserve forests and cause less environmental harm.
Horticulture Minister C Lalsawivunga, who attended the event, said the inauguration of the new bamboo processing unit marks a new era in bamboo processing in the state.
Horticulture department director and Missions Director of the State Bamboo Mission, C H Lalmuanpuia, in his technical report, said that the bamboo treatment and seasoning plant is a key facility for increasing the utility and durability of bamboo, with the potential lifespan of treated bamboo up to 50 years.
He said the activated charcoal unit can produce three tonnes of charcoal per day and is expected to produce around 900 tonnes annually.
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In addition, it will generate about 100 litres of vinegar daily as a byproduct, from which 54 litres of refined vinegar can be extracted through proper distillation.
Three bamboo clusters at Chhingchhip and Baktawng villages in Serchhip district, and Saiphal village in Mamit district have already been established to supply raw materials to the new unit.
