Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: The Rubber Board of India officially opened four new Group Processing Centres at the Development Association of Nagaland complex in Chekiye, Dimapur. These facilities will serve the Hevsihe, NMSB, Lotsu, and NZHU Rubber Producers Societies, providing local farmers with better tools to process their harvests.
Executive director M. Vasanthagesan noted that processing latex within four hours of tapping is essential for maintaining sheet quality and securing fair market prices. The board plans to roll out 17 such centres across Nagaland and the Northeast to support growers through improved infrastructure and government cooperation.
Officials also warned against over-tapping, which can shorten the lifespan of rubber trees from 25 years to just 15 years. Experts urged farmers to adopt professional tapping techniques based on scientific research to maintain long-term productivity and avoid financial losses.
Joint director P. Arumugham encouraged growers to look beyond primary sheet production and explore value-added products. By focusing on quantity, quality, and marketability, the board aims to make natural rubber more competitive. Beyond processing, the Rubber Board is promoting various welfare schemes for tappers that provide coverage for education, healthcare, and maternity benefits.
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