India has been a significant player in the global rubber industry for many years. Rubber is a versatile natural resource with numerous applications, from tyres and automotive components to industrial machinery and consumer goods. Among all the rubber producing countries, Thailand is the largest producer of rubber in the world. India's rank in rubber production is fourth, behind Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. In 2022-2023, India with a production of 8 lakh metric tonnes continues to be one of the largest producers of natural rubber in the world.
Rubber plantation in India is an important plantation agriculture and rubber production in India is done at a significant level. Here, we have listed the top 10 rubber growing states in India.
Kerala, often referred to as the "Land of Rubber," has consistently been the largest rubber producing state in India. With its favourable climate and abundant rainfall, Kerala provides an ideal environment for rubber cultivation. In 2023, it continues to maintain its top position with an impressive production volume. The major rubber-producing districts in Kerala include Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, and Ernakulam. Kerala's rubber is known for its high quality and is widely used in various industries.
Tamil Nadu, with its diverse agricultural activities, is the second largest producer of rubber in India. The state's districts, like Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, and Tirunelveli, are known for their rubber cultivation. Tamil Nadu's rubber industry has been steadily expanding, contributing significantly to the overall rubber production in the country.
Tripura has emerged as the third largest rubber producing state in India. The state's government has actively promoted rubber cultivation to boost the economy and provide employment opportunities. Rubber cultivation in Tripura is mainly concentrated in the districts of West Tripura, and South Tripura.
Assam is another state that has made substantial progress in rubber production in India. With its suitable climate and adequate rainfall, Assam has created a niche for itself in the rubber industry. The districts of Golaghat and Karbi Anglong in Assam are prominent rubber-producing regions. Rubber cultivation in Assam has gained momentum due to the state's commitment to promoting this cash crop.
Meghalaya is another Northeast state to produce rubber at a large scale. The rubber cultivation in the state is concentrated in the Garo Hills. The total area under rubber cultivation in the state is around 4635 hectares.
Nagaland, another state in the northeastern region of India, has embraced rubber cultivation as a viable source of income. The government of Nagaland has encouraged rubber farming in various regions of the state, with the districts of Mon, Mokokchung, and Wokha being key contributors to the state's rubber production.
Manipur is among the top 10 producer of rubber in India. With 19.1% land under rubber cultivation, Manipur produces about 1850 tonnes of rubber. The major rubber producing district in the state is Sepahijala.
Mizoram, located in Northeast India, is known for its lush green landscapes and is also a notable rubber-producing state. The state's government has been actively promoting rubber cultivation as a means to boost the economy and generate employment. The districts of Aizawl, Lunglei, and Mamit are significant contributors to Mizoram's rubber production.
The eastern most state of India is another leading rubber producing state of India. With 25,000 hectares of land under rubber, the commercial production of rubber in the state started in the year 1994. The rubber production is concentrated in nine major districts of the state, which includes East and West Siang, Papum Pare, East Kemeng, and Lowed Dibang Valley, among others.
Karnataka is among other significant rubber producing states in India. The state's favourable climate and suitable soil conditions make it an excellent location for rubber cultivation. Major rubber-producing districts in Karnataka include Dakshina Kannada, Kodagu, and Shivamogga. The state has been actively promoting rubber cultivation and has seen substantial growth in rubber production in recent years.
Several factors contribute to India's impressive rubber production. These are:
India's rubber industry has seen remarkable growth, with several states actively contributing to rubber production. While the challenges exist, the future holds promise for this industry, and it is essential to address these problems to ensure its continued growth and success in both international and domestic markets.