Innovation and tribal welfare drive India’s rubber value chain

Odisha is rapidly transforming into a significant hub for rubber cultivation, offering new economic lifelines to tribal communities in non-traditional farming zones. This shift came into focus when a media team led by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Bhubaneswar visited the Rubber Board headquarters in Kottayam, Kerala. The visit was part of an initiative to understand how the Natural Rubber Sector is modernizing and expanding its reach beyond traditional strongholds.

During an interactive session, Executive Director Shri M. Vasanthagesan briefed the journalists on how the industry functions. He explained that the tyre manufacturing industry consumes a massive 65 percent of India’s domestic rubber. The remaining 35 percent fuels other essential sectors, including medical devices, footwear, and various industrial goods. He stressed that the Board is committed to supporting every step of the process, from planting saplings to marketing the final product.

Technology took center stage during the discussions. Officials highlighted futuristic farming methods currently being adopted to boost efficiency. These include using drones for spraying plantations and applying nano-oils to improve crop health. These steps are designed to make farming sustainable while protecting the environment.

For Odisha, the implications are huge. The state is emerging as a key player in this sector. Officials noted that interventions by the Rubber Board—such as training programs and extension services—are helping rural and tribal populations in Odisha earn better livelihoods.

Data shared during the visit shows that India is a global heavyweight in this field. Cultivation now covers nearly 9.39 lakh hectares across the country. Production is on a steady rise, hitting roughly 8.75 lakh tonnes in the 2024-25 period. However, domestic demand remains high at over 141 lakh tonnes, proving there is immense room for growth. With rubber product exports valued at over ₹43,000 crore, the sector continues to add significant value to the national economy.

Senior officials, including Deputy Director Shri Manoj Kumar Jali, and and Shri Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer accompanied the delegation to witness these developments firsthand.