Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation on Sunday in the 133rd episode of his "Mann Ki Baat" program, specifically discussed the achievements and potential of Northeast India. He said that the bamboo industry in the Northeast is rapidly transforming. The region has now become a major hub of employment and innovation. This is also providing women with new opportunities to become self-reliant and generate income.

Describing the Northeast as India's "Ashtalakshmi," PM Modi said the region is not only blessed with natural beauty but also offers immense talent and opportunity. He noted that while bamboo was once viewed as a mere resource or a burden, it has now become a strong source of livelihood and employment for millions. Bamboo-based industries, particularly in the Northeastern states, are growing rapidly, with innovation playing a significant role in this development.

The Prime Minister explained that due to laws enacted during the British era, bamboo was classified as a tree, which imposed numerous restrictions on its transportation and use. This resulted in the gradual decline of traditional bamboo-related industries, and people began to move away from them. However, in 2017, the government amended this law, removing bamboo from the tree category, which gave this sector a new direction.

The results of this change can be clearly seen today. Bamboo-based industries are flourishing in the Northeast, and local people are experimenting with new technologies. Significantly, women's participation in this sector has also increased significantly, and they are taking strong steps towards self-reliance.

PM Modi cited the examples of Vijay Sutradhar of Gomati district, Tripura, and Pradeep Chakraborty of South Tripura, who saw changing regulations as an opportunity and, by combining technology with their work, added a new dimension to bamboo products. Today, they are producing more advanced and diverse bamboo products than ever before.

Additionally, several self-help groups in Dimapur and surrounding areas of Nagaland are value-adding bamboo to food products. Teams like Khoronlo Creative Crafts are creating furniture and handicrafts from bamboo, which are gaining recognition in the local and national markets.

In Mizoram's Mamit district, work is underway on bamboo tissue culture and polyhouse management, opening up new possibilities in both agriculture and production. Similarly, the Lagastal Bamboo Enterprise team near Gangtok, Sikkim, is producing bamboo handicrafts, incense sticks, furniture, and interior decor items.

The Prime Minister said that while these are just a few examples, the bamboo sector's success story across the Northeast is long and continuing. The region is no longer confined to traditional crafts, but has become a strong hub of modern technology and entrepreneurship.

In his address, PM Modi appealed to the countrymen to adopt bamboo products from the Northeast. He said that people can purchase these products and also give them as gifts. This will not only encourage local artisans but also strengthen the dream of a self-reliant India