The Indian natural rubber plantation sector must embrace research-driven advancements to withstand challenges arising from climate change and fluctuating prices, according to KN Raghavan, former Executive Director of the Rubber Board.

Speaking at the launch of his new book, Rubber Board: Mithyaum Yatharthyavum (Myth and Reality) in Kottayam, Raghavan identified climate change as the biggest threat to the sector. Rising temperatures and shifting monsoon patterns are severely impacting natural rubber plantations. To mitigate these challenges, he emphasised the need to explore genetically modified (GM) rubber, which over-expresses specific genes to withstand extreme weather conditions.

He pointed out that although a confined field trial (CFT) for GM rubber was ready in 2010, it could not be conducted in Kerala due to the State government’s refusal to grant permission. As a result, trials for two GM rubber variants are currently underway in Assam and Tripura. Raghavan urged Kerala, which serves as the hub of natural rubber plantations in India, to reconsider its earlier decision and allow CFT trials for GM rubber within the State.

Cost-cutting strategies

Additionally, he called on farmers to implement the disease prevention measures recommended by the Rubber Board and adopt cost-cutting strategies to enhance productivity. He stressed that leveraging scientific research is essential for the sustainable growth of the sector.

Addressing a question on the future of the Rubber Board, Raghavan stated that the organisation’s role will become even more crucial in the coming years as new challenges emerge in traceability and sustainability. He noted that institutions like the Rubber Board, which integrate research, extension, processing, and marketing under one umbrella, are indispensable for the sector. Given that natural rubber farming in India is largely carried out by small and marginal farmers, only a government-backed organisation can provide effective support and interventions.

Dispelling concerns that the expansion of natural rubber plantations in the North-East could threaten Kerala’s farmers, Raghavan assured that there would be no adverse impact. He explained that Kerala currently produces only 65 per cent of the natural rubber required by domestic industries, leaving room for additional supply.

His book provides an in-depth look into the functioning of the Rubber Board, highlighting the numerous challenges it faces, including its inability to influence market price determination.

MK Muneer, MLA; PC Cyriac, former Chairman of Rubber Board; Sheela Thomas, CMD, Kerala Rubber Ltd; Vasanthagesan, Executive Director of Rubber Board and Chinmayan, a farmer, jointly launched the book.

Published on February 17, 2025