Tripura explores bamboo-based ethanol project: CM Manik Saha

The Tripura state government is in talks with a business group for the development of a bamboo-based ethanol production plant in the state. This has been revealed by Chief Minister Manik Saha signalling a push to leverage local resources for industrial growth.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 36th Tripura Industries and Commerce Fair, Chief Minister Saha said that Tripura has abundant bamboo resources which could be utilised as a key feedstock for ethanol production.

Saha, however, did not reveal the identity of the company involved or provide a timeline for the proposed project.

Emphasising Tripura’s resource potential, the chief minister said the state offers strong opportunities for industries linked to bamboo, cane, pineapple, agarwood and rubber. He added that the government has been actively working to attract investment, recently signing memoranda of understanding worth about Rs 3,800 crore at a business conclave.

Saha said investment inflows into the state have risen in recent years, driven by simplified industrial policies, investor-friendly incentives, skill development programmes and sustained engagement with industry stakeholders.

According to official estimates, Tripura has the potential to develop agarwood-based industries with a valuation of nearly Rs 2,000 crore. The ongoing fair features around 580 stalls from across India and abroad, including international participants. Selected self-help groups and non-governmental organisations have been provided space free of cost.

The Industries and Commerce Fair, organised by the state’s Industries and Commerce Department, will run until February 12. During the inaugural event, several companies that have committed investments in Tripura were felicitated.

North East Bamboo-To-Ethanol

In 2024, Manik Saha had stated that Reliance Industries was exploring possibilities of setting up a bamboo ethanol plant in Tripura. India’s first bamboo based ethanol project was set up b Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL) at its biorefinery in the adjoining state of Assam. Reports held that Japan is expected to invest $408 million for a biofuel project in India that aims to convert bamboo biomass into automobile fuel.