2008-'09 - Kerala Forest Research Institute

Annual Report 2008-09
they continue to remain marginalized from the mainstream of development. All these
factors have affected the livelihood of the MBDs. The major constraints that hinder
the growth of this traditional sector are related to production, marketing and utilization
of bamboos/ products. As the new economic policy has opened up market for the
Indian manufacturers including those working in the traditional and non-traditional
bamboo sector, enhancing efficiency and competence is vital for the sustainable market
existence of the sector. The role of bamboo in supporting the livelihood security of
the MBDs is yet to be documented. Besides, the economic and livelihood potential of
bamboo has not received much attention of the researchers in India. This project is
proposed to fill this gap focusing on the south Indian states.
Structure and functioning of bamboo handicraft industry in South India
Bamboo-based handicraft production in South India is carried out both in the
traditional and non-traditional sectors. In the traditional sector, production of
mats and baskets is the major activity undertaken by traditional workers. Nontraditional
sector mainly involves in the production of other handicraft products
which are produced by traditional and non-traditional workers (members of all
castes/ religions).
Although both the traditional and non-traditional sectors use bamboo or reed as
raw material, their problems relating to production, marketing and technology
are different. Unemployment and exploitation of labour in the industry are
rampant. Due to a variety of reasons, traditional sources of supply of raw materials
are declining. Institutional support for its development is inadequate. The potential
of bamboo handicrafts has not been properly tapped; for instance, export of some
of these items to other countries and proper marketing within the country have
not received adequate attention. Intermediaries still play an important role in the
industry which often hinders its progress. Profitability in the manufacturing of
handicraft products is very low due to a variety of reasons. Technological progress
is inadequate because of structural and financial constraints. The technical and
financial capabilities of the new generation artisans to meet challenges in the
industry in the context of globalization are less. Thus, the future of this industry
depends on the resolution of several problems confronting it. This study is an
attempt to examine various socio-economic problems of bamboo handicraft industry
in South India and to suggest strategies and action plan for its development.
Standardization of bamboo cultivation practices for homesteads of Kerala
About 30 bamboo species suitable for homesteads of Kerala were shortlisted,
including many thornless species which can be grown in homesteads of even 5-10
cents. A model cluster of skilled women with an associated labour bank, who can
help the farmers / land owners in various aspects of bamboo cultivation, was
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Kerala Forest Research Institute