INROAD Project: Revolutionizing Rubber Plantations in Northeast India

A major project by India's top tyre manufacturers aims to develop two lakh hectares of rubber plantation in Northeast India and West Bengal. With 1.25 lakh hectares completed, this initiative significantly boosts the region's rubber production and socio-economic status of 2.5 lakh beneficiaries.

In an unprecedented move, four leading tyre manufacturers in India have embarked on a significant project to enhance rubber plantation across Northeast India and West Bengal. The initiative, known as INROAD (Indian Natural Rubber Operations for Assisted Development), aims to cover two lakh hectares, with 1.25 lakh hectares already completed, according to the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association (ATMA).

Over the past four years, the project has made remarkable strides, reaching resource-deprived populations and engaging farmers with limited land holdings. This effort has not only expanded planting areas but also fortified local nurseries and boosted grower capacities. Financial backing from tyre giants Apollo Tyres, CEAT, JK Tyre, and MRF, along with implementation by the Rubber Board of India, has been crucial in achieving nearly 90% of the project's initial target, explained ATMA Director General Rajiv Budhraja.

Upon completion, the Northeast's share in India's natural rubber plantation is projected to rise significantly, enhancing both the region's production capacity and the socio-economic status of 2.5 lakh beneficiaries. As the project advances, focus will shift to infrastructure development and dissemination of improved agricultural practices among rubber growers.

(With inputs from agencies.)