IndiaA new study by the Public Policy Research Institute (PPRI) highlights the challenges facing Kerala's natural rubber sector, which is experiencing a severe decline due to falling prices and reduced productivity. The research focuses on the impact of this crisis on Chirakkadavu, a rubber-dependent gram panchayat in Kottayam district, and proposes several measures to revive the industry. These include revitalizing rubber producers' societies, restructuring the Rubber Production Incentive Scheme (RPIS) to include laborers, and creating programs to utilize abandoned plantations. The study also points to the dominance of a few major tire companies in controlling the market, limiting farmers' bargaining power. Additionally, it calls for expanding the World Bank-supported KERA project to cover more districts and promoting specialized training for women in rubber-related industries.
Bias read (Center): The article presents findings from a government-affiliated think tank and outlines policy recommendations aimed at addressing economic issues within a specific region. There is no overt ideological framing or biased language; the content remains focused on presenting data and suggesting solutions to
