Boosting Rubber Cultivation in Northeastern India | 19 Sep 2023

Source: TH

Why in News?

The Rubber Board, in partnership with the Central government and the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association, is spearheading a project to increase the area dedicated to natural rubber in the Northeastern States, excluding Sikkim but including West Bengal.

• Tyre manufacturers, the primary consumers of rubber, have committed ₹1,000 crore to this five-year project that started in 2021.

What is the Current Rubber Landscape in India?

• About Natural Rubber:
  • Natural rubber is a versatile and essential raw material derived from the latex or milky sap of certain plant species, primarily the rubber tree, scientifically known as Hevea brasiliensis.
    • This latex contains a complex mixture of organic compounds, with the primary component being a polymer called polyisoprene.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Tropical climate with annual rainfall of 2000 – 4500 mm is suited for cultivation.
  • It requires deep and lateritic fertile soil with an acidic pH of 4.5 to 6.0 and highly deficient in available phosphorus.
  • Minimum and maximum temperature should be ranged from 25 to 34°C with 80 % relative humidity is ideal for cultivation.
    • Regions prone to heavy winds should be avoided.
  • Bright sunshine amounting to about 2000 hours per annum at the rate of 6 hours per day through all the months.
• Rubber Production and Consumption:
  • India is currently the world’s fifth largest producer of natural rubber while it also remains the second biggest consumer of the material globally.(About 40% of India’s total natural rubber consumption is currently met through imports)
• Rubber Distribution:
  • As of now, India boasts approximately 8.5 lakh hectares of rubber plantations.
  • Major rubber producing states include: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Assam.
    • The lion's share of this rubber farming, nearly 5 lakh hectares, is concentrated in the southern states of Kerala and the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu.
    • Additionally, Tripura contributes around 1 lakh hectares to the rubber production landscape
• Major Applications:
  • Tyre Manufacturing: Rubber is a key component in tire production due to its excellent grip and wear resistance.
  • Automotive Parts: Used in seals, gaskets, hoses, and various components for vehicles.
  • Footwear: Commonly used in shoe soles for its cushioning and slip-resistant properties.
  • Industrial Products: Found in conveyor belts, hoses, and machinery components.
  • Medical Devices: Used in gloves, syringe plungers, and medical equipment.
  • Consumer Goods: Used in products like balloons, erasers, and household gloves.
  • Sporting Goods: Found in items like tennis balls, golf balls, and protective gear.