Excelsior Correspondent
KERALA, Feb 3: A press delegation from Jammu and Kashmir, on a tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, visited key rubber research and training institutions in Kottayam, Kerala, on the second day of the programme today.
The delegation visited the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) and the Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), both functioning under the Rubber Board, a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
During an interactive session at NIRT, Executive Director of the Rubber Board M Vasanthagesan and Director (Training) Priya Varma briefed the journalists on policy initiatives and developmental programmes aimed at strengthening India’s rubber sector, particularly the small and marginal growers.
Vasanthagesan said the Government of India is working towards self-sufficiency in natural rubber production through scientific methods, policy support and sustainability measures.
He highlighted the Bharath Sustainable Natural Rubber platform, launched to ensure traceability and legality across the rubber value chain.
He also spoke about latex extraction processes, different rubber products, and efforts to diversify rubber cultivation through alternate varieties, including experimental trials in new agro-climatic zones.
Later, the delegation visited RRII, where senior scientists explained ongoing research in breeding, biotechnology, disease management and rubber technology.
The team witnessed a live demonstration of rubber tapping and visited the International Hevea Clone Museum, which houses advanced genetic resources. The press tour, led by PIB Srinagar, aims to provide journalists with first-hand exposure to major Central Government institutions and research ecosystems across the country.
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