SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, March 30: Jharkhand’s ambitious proposal to establish a Lac Development Board, inspired by the Central Silk Board, has garnered national attention. Experts at a prestigious workshop in Raipur lauded the initiative, recognizing its potential to revolutionize lac cultivation and tribal livelihoods.
National Recognition at Key Workshop
The workshop, titled ‘Forest-Based Livelihood Opportunities for Tribal Communities’, was organized by the Chhattisgarh Forest & Climate Change Department, in collaboration with NITI Aayog, New Delhi. It brought together over 120 experts, including representatives from state governments, NGOs, and research institutions.
Jharkhand: India’s Lac Leader
Speaking at the event, Sanjeev Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) & Member Secretary, Jharkhand Biodiversity Board (JBB), highlighted Jharkhand’s position as India’s largest lac producer. While the state has immense potential to expand production, Kumar identified key challenges such as brood lac shortages and infrastructure gaps.
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The Case for a Lac Development Board
Kumar proposed that a Lac Development Board could drive advancements in brood lac farming, capacity building, marketing strategies, procurement policies, and value addition clusters. He emphasized that such a body would also enhance research and training, paving the way for sustainable growth in the sector.
Sustainable Livelihoods for Tribal Communities
The workshop focused on leveraging forest-based resources to empower tribal communities, ensuring economic growth through sustainable practices. Jharkhand’s innovative approach was widely appreciated, marking a significant step toward the future of lac cultivation and forest-based livelihoods.
