Utilization of bamboo resources and their market value in the western Himalayan region of India

Abstract

India has the second richest diversity of bamboos, with a wide variety of indigenous and exotic bamboo species. They are found in and around forest and non-forest areas and have immense socioeconomic, cultural, and ecological significance. The various uses of bamboo mean that it is an important non-timber forest product that has multiple roles in the maintenance, development and protection of the environment. The Himalayan region has untapped bamboo resource potential; and this study reviews the existing literature. It is supported by research experience on the bamboo resources of the western Himalaya region of India (mainly focused on distribution, utilization and marketing). The western Himalayas have 14 bamboo species with a scattered to moderate distribution in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Jammu and Kashmir have low bamboo diversity. A survey of the major markets in the western Himalaya revealed that there is a wide range of useful and decorative bamboo products available in the market. Bamboo is an important resource in western Himalaya and an increase in bamboo cultivation and its use could help boost livelihoods while providing a number of environmental benefits.