Context

• The Rubber Board recently signed an agreement with Hyderabad based Tech company 'TRST01' to develop a portal to support the Indian exporters of Rubber to Europe.

Key Highlights

• The European Union Deforestation Regulations come into effect from January 1, 2025 and exporters of natural rubber or products made of natural rubber to the EU need to submit a due diligence certificate.
• So, this portal will help the large and small exporters of India to so.
• The rubber plantation owners who export or supply to exporters need to submit land details for the certificate on the portal.

Rubber Board of India

• The Rubber Board of India is a statutory body 
• It was set up under the Rubber Act, 1947.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Headquarter: Kottayam, Kerala

Structure:

The Rubber Board of India has 28 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Central Government –

• Chairman: The Board is headed by a Chairman appointed by the Central Government.
• Members: It has 28 members representing various interests of the natural rubber industry.

Powers:

• Regulate the export and import of rubber and rubber products.
• Conduct inspections of rubber plantations and manufacturing facilities.
• Impose penalties for violations of the Rubber Act.

Functions:

• Research and development: Funding research projects to develop new rubber varieties, improve cultivation techniques, and explore new applications for rubber.
• Technical assistance: Providing technical assistance to rubber growers, including training programs, field demonstrations, and advisory services.
• Quality control: Setting and enforcing quality standards for rubber products, ensuring that Indian rubber products meet international standards.
• Market development: Promoting the export of Indian rubber products, identifying new markets, and organizing trade fairs and exhibitions.
• Data Collection: It collects statistical data on rubber production, consumption, and trade.
• Price stabilization: Implementing measures to stabilize the price of rubber, protecting the interests of both growers and manufacturers.
• Welfare schemes: Providing financial assistance and other benefits to rubber growers, including pension schemes, healthcare facilities, and educational opportunities.

Rubber production in India:

• Temperature: 20°-35°C
• Rainfall: It requires heavy rainfall. The annual average rainfall of not less than 200 cm.
• Soil: Deep, friable, well-drained soils are ideal for rubber cultivation.