70K ha rubber plantation achieved afresh under INROAD project in NE in 3 yrs

Guwahati, Feb 23 (IANS) – In a significant development for the rubber plantation sector in the Northeast, nearly 70,000 hectares of land have been brought under natural rubber plantation under the INROAD project in three years, as stated by top Rubber Board officials on Friday. This initiative marks a major milestone in the region’s agricultural landscape.

The INROAD project, a collaboration between the Rubber Board and the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA), aims to support the development of 2 lakh hectares of rubber plantations in the northeast. This project is aligned with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and is being actively supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

According to ATMA Chairman Anshuman Singhania, the project has already planted over three crore trees, benefiting nearly 80,000 individuals across 93 districts in northeastern states. Singhania highlighted the socio-economic impact of the project, stating that it will benefit around 2.5 lakh farmers and their families.

The tire companies supporting the INROAD project have shown strong commitment, with nearly 70,000 hectares of plantation being achieved in the first three years despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and logistics issues. This progress reflects the dedication of both the industry partners and the Rubber Board in ensuring the success of the initiative.