Kohima: The Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency marked World Bamboo Day 2026 on Friday at the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre in Sovima, Chümoukedima. The event centered on the theme Bamboo Beyond Borders. Officials hoisted the ceremonial flag before cutting the ribbon on the Green Gold Barn, a site built to display how traditional knowledge pairs with modern technology.
NBDA Chairman Nuzota Swuro spoke to the crowd about the agency’s work since 2005. He noted that the group now handles everything from skill training to market development. The agency’s brand, Naturally Nagaland, pushes local goods into new territories. Two established Common Facility Centres currently employ more than 500 people. Swuro emphasized that the future of the industry lies in design, engineering, and digital marketing. He stated, "The resource had emerged as an avenue for enterprise, employment, innovation and sustainable development."
The agency has planted 1,506 hectares of bamboo across the state. They have also backed 30 rural haats, 30 bamboo bazaars, and 15 demonstration plots. Mission Director Tiameren Chang noted that the new facility will open for public use soon. Plans are already moving forward to create bamboo economic zones in Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, and Peren.
Dr. Jayanta Choudhury from Nagaland University proposed adding vocational bamboo courses to the school curriculum. He also suggested that agencies across North Eastern states should work closer together. The program wrapped up with the distribution of certificates to students who finished vocational training at the center. Lipoksungkum Imsong chaired the event, while Mhonlumi Patton handled the final vote of thanks.
Updated at 19th September 2026 at 1:49pm
Swuro also holds a position as NPF Senior Vice-President. He pushed for local youth to get involved in areas beyond basic farming, specifically calling for expertise in architecture and food processing to help build the sector. Beyond the planned economic zones, the agency is now eyeing future industrial units to support their resource development efforts.
Mission Director Tiameren Chang noted the agency has already trained more than 200 entrepreneurs and artisans. He also pointed to the annual Hornbill Bamboo Carnival and various trade fairs as key venues for showing off local progress. Chang added that the agency wants to focus on scientific harvesting and better plantation management to ensure local farmers see real financial gains.
Dr. Jayanta Choudhury highlighted the potential of bamboo-based biochar for the state. He also suggested that regional agencies across the Northeast team up to sharpen their competitive edge when pushing into larger markets.
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