Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 [UDN}:During the monsoon season, bamboo shoots, locally known as “Karadi,” become an important source of livelihood for tribal communities in the undivided Koraput region of Odisha. As the bamboo shoots emerge during the rainy season, tribal people collect them from the forests and sell them in local weekly markets. They also prepare a variety of traditional dishes from the shoots.
Karadi is a traditional food item among tribal communities and is particularly popular in Koraput, Nabarangpur and parts of western Odisha. Since it is available mainly during the monsoon, there is considerable demand for it in local markets. For many tribal women, collecting, processing and selling bamboo shoots has emerged as an important means of earning income.
Experts say that bamboo shoots are a highly nutritious and natural food. They contain significant amounts of dietary fibre, potassium and antioxidants and are low in fat and calories. Around 100 grams of cooked bamboo shoots contain approximately 12–27 kilocalories of energy, 2–2.6 grams of protein, several amino acids, 2–5 grams of carbohydrates and around 1.2–2.2 grams of fibre. They also contain minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, copper, manganese, zinc and iron.
Bamboo shoots are also a source of vitamins such as vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin C, thiamine and riboflavin. They are traditionally considered beneficial for overall health and may help support immunity and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
For tribal communities, bamboo shoots have long been an important part of their traditional diet. During the season, they are collected from the forest, cleaned and processed for consumption. Many families also dry the shoots in the sun and preserve them for use throughout the year. Since fresh bamboo shoots are available only for a limited period, they remain in demand during the season.
However, the growing demand for Karadi has also raised concerns about the sustainability of bamboo resources. Since bamboo plants are cut while the shoots are being harvested, excessive collection can affect the regeneration of bamboo forests. In view of this, the Forest Department has imposed restrictions on the cutting and collection of bamboo shoots in certain areas.
Thus, while Karadi continues to be a traditional food and a valuable source of income for tribal women, sustainable harvesting practices are essential to protect bamboo resources and ensure that this seasonal livelihood continues for future generations.
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