Why in news?
Under the Green India Challenge (GIC), a pilot bamboo plantation was inaugurated in October 2025 on five acres in Mullalagutta 2 village, Adilabad district, Telangana. The project aims to provide a sustainable supply of bamboo to the Kolam tribe, whose livelihood depends on weaving baskets and mats. The plantation is expected to create jobs, strengthen traditional crafts and promote ecological restoration.
Background
The Kolam (or Kollam) are a Scheduled Tribe classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). They number around 2.4 lakhs (2011 census) and live mainly in Maharashtra, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The Kolam language belongs to the Dravidian family. Many Kolam families depend on bamboo craft and agriculture for income.
- Livelihood challenges: Deforestation and overharvesting have depleted natural bamboo stocks. Without a steady supply of raw material, Kolam artisans struggle to sustain their craft, leading to economic hardship and migration.
- Green India Challenge: Launched by former parliamentarian Joginpally Santosh Kumar, the GIC encourages tree planting to combat climate change. The Kolam bamboo project aligns with the National Bamboo Mission, which seeks to boost bamboo cultivation and value‑addition.
- Pilot features: The plantation will use high‑yielding bamboo species suited to local conditions. Women and men from the community will be trained in nursery management and weaving techniques. Mature plantations could yield tens of thousands of culms annually, providing raw material for crafts and construction.
Broader context
Reviving traditional crafts enhances cultural identity and offers sustainable livelihoods. Bamboo is an eco‑friendly resource with diverse applications—from handicrafts and furniture to biofuels and construction. Supporting PVTGs like the Kolam through targeted programmes also advances social justice and inclusive development.
Source: TH