Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Nov 6: In a bid to enhance biodiversity and combat soil erosion, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K), has introduced bamboo under the National Bamboo Mission (NBM), marking the first such initiative in the Valley.
Dr. Pervaiz Ahmad Sofi, Professor and Head, Division of Forest Products and Utilization at SKUAST-K, while speaking with Excelsior said the variety introduced is moso bamboo-a species native to China and widely cultivated across the world, including India’s northeastern states.
“This is Moso Bamboo, also known as Phyllostachys edulis, a China native and an important commercial species there. We have introduced it here under the National Bamboo Mission,” Dr. Sofi said.
“Bamboo does not naturally grow in Kashmir or anywhere in J&K. Introducing it will help increase biodiversity and ensure sustainable growth.”
He said bamboo is a versatile plant with multiple uses-ranging from construction and furniture-making to food, as its shoots are edible and commonly used as vegetables or pickles.
Pertinent to mention here, NBM is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to promote the growth of the bamboo sector in India by focusing on the entire value chain, from cultivation to marketing.
Its goals include increasing bamboo plantations, improving post-harvest management, developing new products, and reducing dependency on imports
Highlighting its ecological significance, Dr. Sofi noted that bamboo plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and reducing erosion, particularly in areas prone to land degradation.
“This species can survive extreme weather conditions-up to minus 37 degrees in winter and 45 degrees in summer,” he added.
“In Kashmir, it can be successfully grown in warmer areas such as Uri, where sub-tropical bamboo species can also be introduced. In low-lying, moisture-rich areas, moso bamboo can be cultivated effectively.”
The university has already developed a small bamboo forest at Benihama Lar of district Ganderbal, as part of the project, with plans to expand cultivation across suitable zones in the Valley.
Dr. Sofi emphasized the need to promote bamboo cultivation among farmers and communities to support sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity conservation, and environmental restoration.
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