Kotpad: Soaring prices of bamboos and their shrinking coverage have taken a heavy toll on bamboo ware makers in Kotpad block of Koraput district.
Over 80 per cent families in this block depend on this craft for several generations. Making bamboo wares has been a cottage industry for people here cutting across castes and creeds. There is no gender barrier for this.
Natural habitat of bamboos is continually on the wane pushing these poor tribals into distress and desperation. The loss of bamboo species has forced many to leave their traditional calling. The forest in a 20 km radius of Kotpad is gradually shrinking and the fast deforestation has caused disappearance of valuable bamboo species like sal and teak.
Several afforestation programs that are launched by the government before they are handed over to tribals for their sustenance fail to meet the immediate requirement of bamboos. Villagers are seen coming back from forests empty-handed.
Bamboos are used for making baskets, winnowing fans, caskets, charpoys, toys and several other decorative items. They are also used to make sofas, chairs, beds and are used for fencing besides roofing material for thatched houses. These products are fully natural and free from chemicals.
‘The money we earn by selling bamboo wares is used for our children’s studies, marriages and special occasions,’ said one of the bamboo artisans.
Earlier, bamboos were collected free from forests while a small piece of bamboo these days is bought at high prices. At some places, tribals are seen growing bamboo plants to continue their age old occupation.
Another disincentive for these tribals is that these wares do not fetch good returns. The artisans have urged the government to prevent loss of bamboo coverage. ‘Profit margins are very low in comparison with the labour,’ said a local. PNN
