Bamboo sector in Kerala is labour intensive in nature and its employment potential is very high. Value added production, skilled labour and scientific method of production will ensure profit and employment opportunities in the sector. The livelihood security of the MBDs (Marginalised Bamboo Dependents) can be enhanced and improved through increased accessibility to raw material and market, skill development and adequate sustainable institutional support.

The Traditional Bamboo Dependent (TBDs) community produce traditional bamboo products for their subsistence as well as for meeting the local seasonal demand. Bamboo based production activities of TBDs involve four stages, viz., collection of raw materials, processing, production and marketing.