Bamboo, known as ‘baans’ in Hindi and ‘moongil’ in Tamil, grows fast in wet and sunny conditions. It thrives in Indian states like Assam, Tripura, and Tamil Nadu. Bamboo has many uses, from clothing to furniture and even musical instruments. It is also seen as a sustainable alternative to plastics for disposable items. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a bio-refinery in Assam to produce 50,000 tonnes of ethanol from bamboo. The Central government launched the National Bamboo Mission 2025 to expand bamboo cultivation on farms and community lands. The mission aims to increase farmers’ incomes and reduce dependence on imports. India is among the top three global exporters of bamboo products, shipping goods like textiles and bamboo jewelry to countries such as the US, Denmark, and Nigeria. Several states have set up bamboo research institutes to develop new products. New research shows bamboo as a powerful superfood. Scientists from Anglia Ruskin University, UK, reported in 2025 that bamboo shoots, leaves, and seeds contain essential amino acids and vitamins A, B6, and E. These nutrients help control blood sugar and lipid levels, offering benefits against diabetes and heart disease. Bamboo foods also provide antioxidants and probiotic effects. For urban consumers, bamboo foods and products are available online and via courier. Bamboo is thus growing as a green, nutritious, and economic force in India.