Potential and Economics of Kanak Kaich Bamboo (<I>Bambusa affinis</I>) Cultivation in Tripura

Abstract

Because of their very fast growth bamboos fit well in the bank's lending system i.e. bamboos are bankable species. Annual income of bamboos after a short period of establishment makes them suitable under Farm/Agroforestry. A locally available bamboo named Kanak Kaich (Bambusa affinis) in Tripura has been found to be commercially viable with high returns on annual basis. The bamboo is raised by the farmers on dry land not suitable for paddy cultivation and is used for specific purposes viz. fishing rods , javelines , umbrella sticks , poles etc. The major markets are: Kolkata , Punjab and Haryana. The plantations give high returns with IRR of more than 50%. The bamboo bas also export potential.