M. Hamid Ansar. Vice President of India

I am glad to know that on the occasion of the World Bamboo Day and the North East International Bamboo Festival, the Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre, Guwahati, is bringing out a special issue of its newsletter, C&B News on the theme 'National Bamboo Mission'.

The bamboo plant is integral to the development of the north eastern region of India since it is an effective means of livelihood for the rural poor by providing an opportunity for employment and income generation. The Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre deserves to be commended for its endeavours in promoting, developing and disseminating technologies. I am confident that the Centre will continue to contribute to the economic development of the region through its various activities.

My best wishes to the Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre in all it endeavours.

M. Hamid Ansar.