Date:13/03/2007 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2007/03/13/stories/2007031301112100.htm

Back `Rubber society helps in bridging gap between lab, land'

Our Bureau

Mangalore March 12 The rubber producers' society (RPS) plays a major role in bridging the gap between laboratory and land, according to Mr P.P. Prabhu, Chairman of Indian Institute of Plantation Management (IIPM).

Inaugurating a short-term executive programme (STEP) on `Institution building and business-led extension service for rubber sector, jointly organised by IIPM and Rubber Board in Mangalore on Monday, Mr Prabhu said industrial sector is likely to witness a good growth for the next few years.

Demand-supply

The demand-supply balance is likely to be in favour of demand in the rubber sector. "We need to be competitive to remain as an active player in the world market," he said.

In such a situation, RPS plays a greater role. RPS, which bridges the gap between laboratory and land, helps improve the standard of the commodity, Mr Prabhu said.

RPS acts as an interface between the government, the Rubber Board and the growers, he added.

New Step

Giving details of the programme, Dr V.G. Dhanakumar, Director of IIPM, said the establishment of grassroots organisations such as self-help groups, RPS helps in facing challenges in the market. The STEP will give an idea on rural leadership in cases of rubber and other associated agri-business activities.

Mr V. Mohanan, Deputy Rubber Production Commissioner, Regional Office of Rubber Board, Mangalore, said Karnataka has around 30,000 rubber growers. Even people from districts such as Mandya and Mysore are seeking assistance on rubber cultivation, he said.