The Odisha government’s Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department organised a national conference on bamboo and medicinal plants today at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Hall.
The event highlighted the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources, emphasising sustainable development and economic opportunities in these sectors.
Chief Guest and Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia addressed the gathering, underscoring the conference’s significance. “This national conference on medicinal plants reflects our state’s cultural identity and is a matter of great pride for Odisha,” he said. “It mirrors our deep connection with traditional knowledge and nature. Importantly, for generations, bamboo and medicinal plants have been integral to the daily lives of our tribal and forest-dwelling communities. What we aim to achieve is transforming this traditional strength into modern economic benefits while preserving environmental balance without depleting these resources.”
Minister Khuntia described bamboo as a key component of Odisha’s green industry. “The world is now turning towards sustainable materials, eco-friendly architecture, and natural fibres. Bamboo naturally aligns with this global shift,” he noted. Odisha’s artisans already possess the skills and creativity needed; what they require is design innovation, advanced tools, larger markets, and continuous training. “Through this conference, I hope we can prepare a comprehensive roadmap for this,” he added.
On medicinal plants, the Minister highlighted them as another gift from Odisha’s forests. “Our healers and tribal communities hold profound knowledge of their uses. With proper scientific guidance, quality planting materials, and appropriate value-chain support, we can turn this knowledge into a thriving sector that benefits thousands of families,” he said. With a growing global demand for medicinal products, Odisha needs to position itself strongly in this space.
The Minister further emphasised the need for action-oriented clusters, nursery strengthening, farming training, and direct support to farmers and self-help groups. “These facilities must reach the grassroots level and connect with the real people,” he stated.
The conference featured the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with four institutions: KFRI, INBAR, and NID for bamboo initiatives, along with the launch of the Odisha Bamboo Haat online platform. Minister Singh remarked, “For the first time, our artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs will have a dedicated digital space to showcase their products. This will bring transparency, fairness, and dignity to their work.” Similarly, partnerships with FRLHT-TDU, MSSRF, and IRMA will guide medicinal plant efforts through research-backed strategies and community-centred approaches.
Distinguished guests included Additional Chief Secretary of the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department Shri Satyabrata Sahu; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Shri Suresh Pant; Chief Executive of Odisha Medicinal Plants Board Shri V. Kartik; and Project Director of Odisha Forestry Sector Development Society Dr. K. Murugesan. Representatives from national institutions across various states, industry partners, experts, and participants also attended.
The event marks a significant step towards harnessing Odisha’s natural wealth for sustainable growth, blending tradition with innovation.
