Assam artisan builds livelihoods From bamboo crafts
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In Jorhat, Assam, Prabhat Saikia started a handicraft unit in 2006 and now employs around 20 young artisans, creating furniture and decorative items from bamboo and cane.
Saikia’s workshop transforms the locally abundant bamboo into finished products, preserving traditional skills while providing income opportunities. He received training from the Rainforest Research Institute in Jorhat, learning techniques to treat bamboo and improve its durability.
Saikia has expanded his market beyond Assam, even participating in international workshops in Nepal to share knowledge and learn new approaches. This exposure helps him refine his designs and production methods. Nationally, the Indian government supports bamboo businesses through the National Bamboo Mission, which established 528 product development units and 104 treatment facilities by the end of 2024. Saikia’s success demonstrates how combining traditional craftsmanship with business skills, training, and access to markets can create sustainable livelihoods.
Supporting these enterprises helps maintain cultural practices and provides opportunities for younger generations to stay in their communities.
