0

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (E-BOOK) RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA: PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE By Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY & Dr. B.REVATHY Published by International Society for Green, Sustainable Engineering and Management ISO 9001: 2015 certified for R & D, Training An Autonomous Organization under public trust act, Govt of West Bengal, India Laboratory Member Quality Council of India Member the Indian Science Congress Association Member Indian Statistical Institute

RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA : PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE

RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA : PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE By Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY & Dr. B.REVATHY Publisher’s Name International Society for Green, Sustainable Engineering and Management ISO 9001:2015 certified for Research, Development &Training An Autonomous Organization, Under Public Trust Act, Government of West Bengal, India Laboratory Member Quality Council of India Member The Indian Science Congress Association Indian Statistical Institute 2020

© International Society for Green, Sustainable Engineering and Management Editor in Chief: Dr.Debaprayag Chaudhuri, Chairman Production Editor: Mrs.Soma Das Chaudhuri Published in India by International Society for Green, Sustainable Engineering and Management 94,Garfa Main Road, Ground Floor, Jadavpur, Kolkata-700 075,West Bengal India Mobile:0091 96 74 76 61 80 Email: isgsem.research.kolkata@gmail.com Website: http://isgsemkolkata.blogspot.com Copyright © 2020.All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher. The society names used in this set are for identification purposes only. 1st Edition: April’2020 ISBN : 978-93-88936-09-5 (e-copy only) 450

RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA: PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE By Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY & Dr. B.REVATHY

Copy Right pag Information contained to be reliable and are c to avoid errors and om brought to the notice o this book. e in this book has been obtained by author (s) orrect to the best of their knowledge. Ever ) from sources believed effort has been made y missions and ensure accuracy. Any error or omission noted may be of the Publisher which shall be taken care of forthcoming edition of However, neither the p any information publ ts responsibility of liabilility for any inconvenience expenses, losses or damage to anyone resulting from conten the publisher ublisher nor the author guarantee the accura blished herein and neither of this book. The author (s) of the b book donot violate an ook have taken all possible care to ensure th y existing copyright or other intellectual p person in any manner whatever. In the event, if the au has been inadvertently writing for corrective a l thor (s) have been unable to track any sourc infringed, the fact may be brought to the n t ce and if any copyright notice of the publisher of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Departmen of Higher Education, MHRD as per the app ication having reference number 1019|ISBN|2019|P. ction. The ISBN of e-Book has been generatated by the Government Regards Publisher that the contents of the property rights of any acy or completeness of nor author take any ISBN: 978-93-88936-09-5 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA : PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TR Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY , Dr. B.REVATHY RADE

RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA : PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY Assistant Professor in Commerce, St.John’s College, Palayamkottai. & Dr. B.REVATHY Professor and Head, Department of Commerce, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Abishekapatti, Tirunelveli-627012, Tamilnadu, India E- mail: revabalamsu@gmail.com Mobile: 94427 81692

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION AND DESIGN OF THE STUDY 1.1 INTRODUCTION .....................................................................Page 13 1.2 RUBBER MEANING: ..............................................................Page 14 1.3 HEVEA BRASILIENSIS ..........................................................Page 14 1.4 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION ...............................................Page 14 1.4 (A) Small Rubber Growers (SRG) 1.4 (B) Rubber Producers' Societies (RPS) 1.4 (C) supports by co-operatives 1.4 (D)New Planting 1.4 (E)Replantation 1.5 HISTORY AND SCIENTIFIC GROWTH OF NATURAL RUBBER 1.5 (A) Pre-15th Century ...........................................................Page 16 1.6 CONSUMPTION OF RUBBER IN BRITAIN AND AMERICA....Page 19 1.7 SOURCE OF RUBBER ............................................................ Page 20 1.7 (A)Para Rubber (CastillaRubber) 1.7 (B) Ceara Rubber 1.7 (C) Assam Rubber 1.7 (D) Para Rubber 1.7 (E) Guayule Rubber 1.7 (F) Landolphia Rubbers. 1.7 (G) Palay Rubber 1.7 (H) Dandelion Rubber 1.8 USES OF NATURAL RUBBER .............................................. Page 21 1.8 (A) Transportation 1.8 (B) Manufacture of industrial goods 1.8 (C) Communications 1.8 (D) Health care 1.8 (E) Others 1.9 RUBBER GROWING IN INDIA .......................................... Page 23 1.10 MANURING...........................................................................Page 23 1.11 SEASONAL PATTERN IN PRODUCTION ....................... Page 23 1.11 (A) Lean period 2

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1.11 (B) Peak period 1.12 STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS .......................................... Page 24 1.13 SCOPE OF THE STUDY ..................................................... Page 25 1.14 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY .......................................... Page 25 1.15 METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY ................................... Page 25 1.15 (A) Sample design 1.16 COLLECTION OF DATA ................................................... Page 26 1.16 (A) Primary data: 1.16 (B) Secondary Data: 1.16 (C) Sources of Secondary Data 1.17 PERIOD OF THE STUDY ................................................... Page 27 1.18 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: ..................................... Page 27 1.19 CONSTRUCTION OF TOOLS ............................................ Page 27 1.20 STATISTICAL TOOLS ....................................................... Page 28 1.20 (A) Compound Growth Rate (CGR) 1.20 (B) ANOVA 1.20 (C) Mean Square 1.20 (D) T - Test 1.20 (E) Rank method (Garrett’s ranking technique) 1.20 (F) Chi-Square Test (χ2) 1.20 (G) Correlation co-efficient 1.21 TESTING HYPOTHESIS ...................................................... Page 32 1.22 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY ......................................... Page 32 1.23 SCHEME OF THE REPORT ........................................... Page 33 1.24 SUMMARY OF THE CHAPTER ......................................... Page 33 CHAPTER II REVIEW OF LITERATURE 2.1 INTRODUCTION:................................................................ Page 36 2.1(a) REVIEW RELATING TO PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF THE NATURAL RUBBER 3

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2.1 (b) REVIEW RELATING TO NATURAL RUBBER TAPPERS 2.1(c) REVIEW RELATING TO MARKETING OF THE NATURAL RUBBER 2.1 (d) REVIEW RELATING TO RUBBER BASED INDUSTRY 2.2 CONCLUSION FROM THE LITERATURE REVIEW……………. Page 46 2.3 PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA .......................................... Page 49 2.3 (A) Tamilnadu 2.3 (B) Profile of Kanyakumari District 2.3 (B) 1. Introduction of Kanyakumari District 2.3 (B) 2. Ancient History 2.3 (B) 3. General Information of Kanyakumari District 2.3 (B) 4. Soil Condition 2.3 (B) 5. Agriculture 2.3 (B) 6. Spices and Other Plantation 2.3 (B) 7. Forests 2.3 (B) 8. Temperature 2.4 THE RUBBER BOARD.................................................................... Page 51 2.5 ASSISTANCE FROM THE RUBBER BOARD FOR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT .......................................................................... Page 53 2.6 ARASU RUBBER CORPORATION LIMITED, NAGERCOIL ... Page 53 2.7 SALES IN RUBBER ........................................................................ Page 55 2.8 RUBBER INDUSTRY IN INDIA ................................................... Page 56 2.8(A) Structure of Industry 2.8 (B) Characteristics of the Indian Rubber Industry 2.8(C) Manufacturing Process in Rubber Industry 2.8(D) Machinery Manufacturing 2.8(F) Rubber Chemicals 2.9 RUBBER RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS ..................................... Page 58 2.10 KONAM LATEX INDUSTRIES PRIVATE LIMITED (KLIP) ..... Page 58 2.11 SUMMARY ...................................................................................... Page 58 4

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER III NATURAL RUBBER PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION 3.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................. Page 60 3.2 NATURAL RUBBER ....................................................................... Page 61 3.3 CULTIVATION ................................................................................ Page 61 3.4 METHODS OF CULTIVATION …………………………………. Page 61 3.4.1 Preparation of land: 3.4.2 Planting of rubber trees: 3. 4.3 Manuring of rubber trees 3.4.4 Intercropping: 3. 4.5 Dry Natural Process (DNP) 3.4.6 Natural Rubber Latex Process (NRL) 3.4.7 Collection of Rubber (LATEX) 3. 4.8 Yield Cycle of Rubber 3. 4.9 Marketing of rubber 3. 4.10 Sale through Retailers 3.5 FERTILIZERS USED FOR CULTIVATION ...................................... Page 64 3.6 VARIETY OF RUBBER ....................................................................... Page 64 3.7 EXPENSES INCURRED IN PRODUCTION FOR 1KG OF SHEET...Page 64 3.8 IMPORTANCE OF NATURAL RUBBER ...........................................Page 64 3.9 NATURAL RUBBER – MAJOR END –USES....................................Page 65 3.10 PRODUCTION SECTOR...................................................................... Page 65 3.11 WORLD RUBBER SCEANERIO:....................................................... Page 66 3.12 GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL DEMAND FOR RUBBER ........................ Page 66 3.13 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA ................................................ Page 76 3.13 (A) Origin of Natural Rubber in India 3.13 (B) Early commercial plantations in India 3.14 INDIAN RUBBER................................................................................ Page 78 3.15 STATE‐WISE PRODUCTION OF NATURAL RUBBER.................. Page 80 3.15.1 Traditional Regions: 3.15.2 Non- traditional region: 3.16 STATE-WISE AREA AND PRODUCTION OF NATURAL RUBBER IN INDIA ....................................................................................................... Page 80 3.17 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN TAMILNADU................................... Page 81 5

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 3.18 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT ...... Page 81 3.19 SUMMARY ..................................................................................... Page 99 CHAPTER IV SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF NATURAL RUBBER TAPPERS IN KANIYAKUMARI DISTRICT 4.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................. Page 101 4.2 WHO ARE TAPPERS? .................................................................... Page 101 4.3 MEANING AND DETAILS OF TAPPING .................................... Page 101 4.4 IMPORTANCE OF TAPPING …………………………………… Page 102 4.5 OPERATIONAL TERMS IN TAPPING ........................................ Page 103 4 .5 (A) Bark 4 .5 (B) Marking, slope and direction of tapping cut 4 .5 (C) Standard of tapping and height of opening 4.5 (D) Tapping depths, bark consumption and bark renewal 4 .5 (E) Time of tapping, task and utensils 4 .5 (F) Tapping systems 4 .5 (G) Rain guarding 4 .5 (H) Tapping rest 4 .5 (I) Rubber Tappers Bank (RTB) 4 .5 (J) Latex 4 .5 (K) Latex flow 4 .5 (L) Properties of Rubber 4 .5 (M) Processing of the Crop 4 .5 (N) Smoking 4 .5 (O) Drying of rubber sheets 4 .5 (P) Grading 4 .5 (Q) Packing 4.6 EVOLUTION OF TAPPING ........................................................... Page 108 4.7 EXPORT OF RUBBER PRODUCTS ............................................. Page 108 4.8 SUMMARY ...................................................................................... Page 127 6

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER V MARKETING OF RUBBER IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT 5.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................... Page 129 5.2 OPERATIONAL TERMS USED IN MARKETING OF RUBBER.... Page 130 5.2 (A) Retailers 5.2 (B) Dealers 5.2 (C) Wholesalers 5.2 (D) Co-operative Marketing 5.2 (E) Marketable Forms of Natural Rubber 5.2 (F) Brokerage and commission 5.2 (G) Fluctuations in Rubber Price 5.2 (H) Inadequate Supply of Rubber 5.2 (I) Price of rubber 5.2 (J) Economic importance of Rubber 5.2 (K) Rubber wood 5.2 (L) Physical properties of Rubber Wood 5.2 (M) Consumption of Rubber Wood. 5.2 (N) Marketing Channel 5.2 (O) Branding 5.3 INDIAN RUBBER MARKET ............................................................. Page 135 5.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF NATURAL RUBBER MARKET IN INDIA… Page 135 5.5 PROBLEMS FACED BY SMALL GROWERS IN MARKETING… Page 136 5.6 INTERNATIONAL RUBBER SCENARIO ...................................... Page 139 5.7 IMPORT OF NATURAL RUBBER:.................................................. Page 139 5.8 MARKETING AVAILABLE FOR RUBBER PRODUCER 5.9 SUMMARY CHAPTER VI -FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS OF THE STUDY 6.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................Page 155 6.2 MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY ……………………… ….. Page 155 6.2 (A) Findings related to secondary data 6.2 (B) Findings related to cultivation or growers: 6.2 (C) Findings related to marketers/distributors: 6.2 (D) Findings related to NR Tappers: 6.3 SUGGESTIONS OF THE STUDY………………………………… Page 162 7

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 6.3 (A) Suggestions related to production 6.3(B) Suggestions related to tapping 6.3 (C) Suggestions related to women tappers 6.3 (D) Suggestions related to the Government 6.3 (E) Suggestions related to marketing 6.3 (F) Suggestion related to Rubber Board 6.4 CONCLUSION……………………………………………………… Page 167 Table No Tables 1.1 1.2 1.3 2.1 2.2 2.3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 .6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 Consumption of Rubber Source of Rubber State wise distribution of Area and number of units from 1955-56 to 1970-71. Field Rubber Production Rubber Production Grade Factory Production Expenses required for cultivation World level rubber production by various countries from 2001 to 2015 World Rubber Consumption Consumption of Natural rubber in main producing countries in the world: Type-wise Production of Natural Rubber in India Consumption of Rubber – Sector wise – product –wise: Production and Consumption Trend of NR Total Area, Production and Productivity in(kg)yield/ha Distribution of Sample Respondent by Age Distribution of Sample Respondent by Sex Distribution of Sample Respondent by Literacy Distribution of Sample Respondent by Marital Status Distribution of Sample Respondent by Categories Distribution of Sample Respondent by using Type of Fertilizer Distribution of Sample Respondent by the Preference for NR Cultivation Distribution of Sample Respondent by Kinds of intercropping Distribution of Sample Respondent by Mode of Cultivation Distribution of Sample Respondent by Quality of Natural Rubber 8

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table No 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 3.23 3.24 3.25 4. 1 4. 2 4. 3 4. 4 4. 5 4. 6 4. 7 4. 8 4. 9 4. 10 4. 11 4. 12 4. 13 4. 14 4. 15 4. 16 4.17 4. 18 4. 19 4. 20 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 Tables Distribution of Sample Respondent by Methods of Drying Distribution of Sample Respondent for Tapping the Rubber Trees Distribution of Sample Respondent by using Type of Vessels Distribution of Sample Respondent for the factors affecting production Co-efficient of Regression, for Age and sources of production Education and Sources of NR production by growers Chi-square test for sources of NR cultivation Total Area, Tapped Area, Production and Average Yield per Hectare of Rubber Distribution of sample respondents by Mode of tapping Level of Satisfaction of Tappers Factors of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Paired sample test used for Natural Rubber Tapper Paired sample t- test used for Natural Rubber Tapper The Paired-Samples correlation test Sources of income earned Mode of tapping Payment received by the tappers Mode of repayment by the tappers Function of the government support Problems faced by the tappers in tapping Advance received by the tappers Training attended by the tappers Government support to the tappers Nature of assistance received from the Rubber Board Year of experience Amount of monthly income Satisfaction of tappers with dependent variable (One way ANOVA) Physical properties of Rubber Wood Production, Import, Export and Consumption of Natural Rubber Foreign Trade of Rubber Products in India Annual Average Rubber Price (Rs. 100 kg) in Domestic Market 9

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table No 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13 5.14 5.15 5.16 5.17 5.18 5.19 5.20 Tables Month-wise export of Natural Rubber Country-wise Export of Natural Rubber Channel of distribution Sources of finance Problems in Storage Problems in Marketing Reasons for Rubber Sheets sale through Commission agents Problems in Transportation (Marketing) Problems in marketing cost for Rubber sheet Reasons for Rubber sheets sales through commission agents Factors for getting information about price of rubber sheets Maintenance cost of rubber sheet Reasons for rubber sheets sales through wholesales Problems faced by the distributors of rubber sheets Socio economic status of NR distributors in Kanyakumari district Paired sample correlation 10

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ANOVA ANRPC ARCL ARGMA ATMA CAGR CARD CUT F O B GMS Ha. IISRP INRO IRSG ISO ITRO Kg K.K Dist. LFT LPG MT NABARD NR NRL NS OSHA RIS RPIS RPS RR RRII RSS RTB S SHGs SMG SR TIDC TN UNCTAD UPASI : Analysis of Variance : The Association of Natural Rubber Producing countries : Arasu Rubber Corporation Limited : ASEAN Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association India’s Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association : : Compound Annual Growth Rate : Cultural Academy for Rural Development : Controlled Upward Tapping : Free On Board : Great Mekong Sub-Region : Hectare : : : : : International Institute of Synthetic Rubber Producers International Natural Rubber Organisation International Rubber Study Group International Standards Organisation International Tripartite Rubber Organisation : kilo gram : Kanyakumari District : Low Frequency Tapping : Liberalisation, Privation, and Globalisation : Metric Tonne : National Bank for Agricultural Rural Development : Natural Rubber : Natural Rubber Latex Process : Not significance : Occupational Safety Health and Administration : Rubber Information System : Runner Production Incentive Scheme : Rubber Producers Societies : Reclaimed Rubber : Rubber Research Institute : Ribbed Smoked sheets : Rubber Tappers Bank : Significance ; Self Help Groups : Standard Malaysian Glove Scheme : Synthetic Rubber : Tripura Industrial Development Corporation : Tamil Nadu : United Nations Conference on Trade and Development : The United Planters’ Association of Southern India 11

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 WTO : World Trade Organisation 12

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER - I 1.1 INTRODUCTION Rubber plays an important role in the industrial and the economic development of the country. Rubber plantations provide the principal raw material required for the manufacturer of around 35,000 rubber products, ranging from toy balloons to tyres of giant earthmoving equipment. India is the fourth largest consumer of natural rubber. Rubber was introduced to America first. Then it was introduced to Asian and African countries in 1876. In this condition, particularly in Kerala and Kanyakumari District, rubber has been cultivated for nearly 110 years. Now in India, rubber is cultivated in 711560 ha, area and is produced from 477230 ha, area. Approximately, 1806 kg rubber is produced for one hectare area. Among this production 90 per cent of rubber is produced in Kerala alone. In Kanyakumari District, rubber is cultivated in more than 25,000 ha area, in rubber production, related works, factories, vendors and exporters are involved, directly or indirectly. Rubber has been responsible for the life of more than one crore people. Rubber is the main ingredient in the production of gloves, slippers, balloon, tyre, rubber band, rubber ball, thin rubber thread and even the artificial heart valves. Statistical data reveals that at the world level, more than 40,000 articles of a great utility value are produced from rubber. Rubber is being cultivated and produced in various countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, China, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Nigeria and Brazil. But in India, quality rubber is being produced from Kashia village, which is located at the southern tip of Kanyakumari district. In the present scenario, the development of automobile business and the growth of other types of business have increased the need of rubber. For the past few years, farmers have been very happy about the demand for rubber. The low production of synthetic rubber is due to the hike in the price of petroleum products and also the price of rubber. Rubber trees are widely grown in the states of Kerala and the adjoining Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu. These are the traditional rubber growing areas of the country. Both the areas are geographically and agro-climatically suitable for rubber cultivation. Besides this, rubber is also grown in Tripura, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and other north-eastern states. In India rubber plantations spread over an area of 5.78 lakhs hectares in 16 states across the country. The production of rubber is dominated by smallholdings which account for 91 per cent of the total production and 88 per cent of the area with an average holding size 13

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 of 0.5 hectare. Nearly 0.7 million people are engaged in these rubber plantations as workforce either directly or indirectly. 1.2 RUBBER: Rubber is found in the fluid of some specific plants but it can also be produced synthetically. Synthetic rubber is produced through the process of polymerization of various monomers. Natural rubber is produced by the process of tapping of the plant called Hevea Brasiliensis. The rubber tree is a native of the Amazon River basin in South America. The ideal rubber growing regions should be 8 degree North of Equator, 10 degree South of Equator, and having a high temperature, an altitude not beyond 400m and a high humidity. These plants generally have 32 years of economic life but they may live up to 100 years or even more than that. The plantation would start its yield from 6th year onwards. The natural rubber produced is processed to convert into a storable and marketable form. In India, the peak season for harvesting rubber is from October to January, while the lean period is during monsoon season. The basic property of rubber is that it comes back to its original shape if it is twisted or stretched but it heat is applied to the rubber, it won’t return to its original shape easily. 1.3. HEVEA BRASILIENSIS Hevea brasiliensis is the most important commercial source of natural rubber. It is a product extracted from its latex. Natural rubber, however, has been found in the latex of over 2000 species of plants belonging to 311 genera of 79 families. The rubber tree is sturdy, quick- growing and tall. It grows on many types of soils, provided they are deep and well drained. A warm, humid, equable climate (21C to 35C) and a fairly distributed annual rainfall of not less than 200 cm are necessary for the optimum growth. The rubber trees have well developed tap root and lateral. The bark, on tapping, yields latex. 1.4 OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS 1.4 (A) Small Rubber Growers (SRG) Farmers or land owners, cultivating rubber are called rubber growers. The term 'small rubber growers' has been traditionally used to refer to an agriculturist who manages a farm that is relatively small in size. In India rubbers holding of 20 hectares and below are called 14

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 smallholdings. But the average size of a smallholding is less than one hectare. Perhaps, India is the only country where the average size of rubber holding is so small. According to Rubber Plantation Development Scheme -phases I to IV (1980-2000) the term 'small rubber grower' stipulates that the total area planted with rubber owned by a person or jointly by a group of persons should have its extent limited to 5 hectares. According to the Rubber Act, 1947, small grower means, "an owner whose estate does not exceed 50 acres in area (20.33 hectares)." But a vast majority of the members of the Rubber Producers' Societies are owners of rubber area up to 5 hectares. Therefore, small rubber growers for the purpose of this study include rubber growers having rubber area between 50 cents and 5 hectares. A rubber smallholding in India is statutorily defined as a holding that does not exceed 20 hectares. According to him, the average size of a smallholding is 1.19 hectares. 1.4 (B) Rubber Producers' Societies (RPS) The Rubber Producers' Societies are grass root level voluntary organizations of small rubber growers registered as charitable societies and promoted by the Rubber Board. RPSs are now functioning as extension arms of the board. They are actively involved in the implementation of almost all farmers support schemes. The services rendered by RPS to the growers in areas of technology transfer, input supply, plantation maintenance, harvesting practices, primary processing and quality improvement of sheets, environment protection through proper effluent treatment and rubber marketing are laudable. 1.4 (C) supports by co-operatives Co-operatives institutions at the village, taluk, district and the state levels have played a major role in supporting rubber development activities. Through timely delivery of plantation inputs at reasonable price, these institutions have assisted in increasing rubber production an ensured higher value for the money spent by the farmers. The role played by the co-operatives in marketing rubber is commendable. When rubber price fell to the rock bottom and there were no takers for rubber produced by the small and marginal growers, certain co-operatives dared to purchase their rubber at the minimum notified price even suffering financial loss. It was a great relief to the farmers. 1.4 (D) New Planting There cannot be any increase in new planting especially in the small holding sector unless rubber cultivation becomes financially attractive in the long run. Under the existing market conditions, there is a tendency among small holders to switch over to other crops. This can be checked only by effecting appropriate price policy measures for natural rubber. 15

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1.4 (E) Replantation Replanting for encouraging replantation of old and uneconomic areas with high yielding varieties of rubber, the growers must be given incentives such as the supply of highly subsidized fertilizers, subsidies for controlling leaf fall disease and for manuring during the immaturity period. 1.5 HISTORY AND SCIENTIFIC GROWTH OF NATURAL RUBBER NR is found in the lattices of over 2,000 species of plants belonging to 311 genera of 79 families. In 1826, Michael Faraday discovered that natural rubber has five carbon atoms in the repeat unit. Rubber was an existence millions of years ago. Columbus during his second visit to South America during 1493-96, also reported the use of the material as a “bouncing ball for playing games” by the inhabitants of Haiti. Rubber once was an ordinary forest tree in Amazon forest of America but now has been changed and remained as a cash crop for 150 years. Heavia Brazilians is an important type of rubber which has not only been cultivated everywhere but also been known for its good quality and high yield. There are also some other types of rubber which have not been preferred for cultivation because of its low yield. Let us briefly discuss about the life history and various scientific development and its uses of natural rubber. 1.5 (A) Pre-15th Century Rubber is used by Latin American Indians who collect latex from rubber trees and dry it on stick over smoky flames. 1496 : Christopher Columbus introduces rubber to Europe. During his second expedition to the New World, he finds natives of West Indies playing with bouncing balls, collects a few of them and presents them to Queen Isabella of Spain. 1530 : Peter Martyr publishes his bookde Orbe Novo, which has the earliest reference to rubber. 1703 : C.Francis Fresneau gives the first general description of the method of tapping and preparing crude natural rubber (NR). 1745 : Charles de la Condamine makes a report to the Paris Academy of Sciences for used to make water-proof fabrics, shoes, elastic bottles, bracelets, bells and balls, by natives of the Amazon valley. 1755 : Several pairs of boots of King Joseph of Portugal are sent report to Brazilian port of Para for coating with rubber latex. 16

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1763 : P.I Macquer and L.A.M Herrisant discover that rubber dissolves in either and turpentine. 1770 : Edward Nairne, a shopkeeper in Britain, starts selling small cubes of rubber as erasers, the first commercial use of rubber, then known as elastic gum. 1775 : Joseph Priestly, famous English chemist, gives the name ‘rubber’ to elastic gum noticing its ability to rub off pencil marks. 1779 : The Portuguese attempts, at Para, to manufacture rubber goods including surgical appliances. 1791 : A Fourcroy finds that ammonia preserves NR 1810 : Roxburgh in Calcutta gets a gift of honey from Assam, in a receptacle lined with Focus rubber. 1818 : James Syme proves naphtha is an efficient rubber solvent. 1820 : Thomas Hancock discovers mastication and invents hand-driven wooden masticator. 1823 : Charles Macintosh uses naphtha rubber solution as a water-proofing layer between fabrics and develops the ‘Macintosh’ water proofing process, which he patents. 1826 : Thomas Hancock invents the rubber board. 1836 : E.M. Chaffee invents calendar to make uniformity thick rubber sheet without using solvents. 1839 : Charles Goodyear discovers the process of vulcanization. 1845 : H. Bewley inverts extruder. 1846 : Alexander Parkes patents the use of carbon disulphide as rubber solvent for making water-proof garments. 1853 : Spensor patents railway springs, to ‘cushion’ concussion. 1860 : Charles Hanson Greville Williams, British chemist, discovers that by destructive distillation, isoprene, the building block of NR, can be obtained. 1876 : Henry Wickham’s collection of seeds, are sent to the Botanical Gardens in Ceylon. 1879 : Bouchardt succeeds in decomposing NR into isoprene and in polymerising in back into rubber. 1882 : Sir William synthesises rubber from isoprene. 1888 : John Boyd Dunlop of Scotland independently inverts the first useful pneumatic tyre, making possible the new era of motor cars. 1890 : William Barlett invents tyre bead, which makes possible tyre detachment from the rim. 1895 : Michelin brothers complete the Paris car race in a tyres-fitted vehicle. 17

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1896 : H.J.Doughty develops the first tyre curing press. 1904 : S.C Mote of the Indian Rubber Gutta and Telegraph Works in England 1906 : George Oenslager discovers organic accelerators for reducing vulcansisation time and the chemicals. 1909 : German chemist Fritz Hofmann patents development of poly-isoprene synthetic rubber (SR). 1910 : Dunlop Co., makes the first motor car tyre. 1916 : Fernley. H. Invents the internal mixer which revolutionises rubber mixing/compounding. 1917 : The first truck tyre is made. 1920 : Untied develops the first latex foam rubber. 1922 : Thermal process for making carbon black is introduced. 1923 : Utermark discovers processing of latex concentrates by centrifuging.1924: Herbert. A. Winkelmann and Harold Gray develop the first commercially feasible antioxidants, to reduce rubber’s degradation from exposure to oxygen, ozone and ultraviolet radiation. 1925 : The Rubber Research Institute of Malaya, the premier institution devoted to research on NR in the world, comes into being. 1930 : Du Pont commercialises the SR, duprene, the polymeric structure of which is similar to NR. It is renamed neoprene in 1936. 1937 : Dunlop Rubber Co., sets up the Ist Indian tyre factory in Bengal. 1947 : Rubber is used first in roads on Rue Ferrier in Geneva. The Rubber (Production and Marketing) Act comes into force in India and the Indian Rubber Board is constituted under it. 1952 :The first liquid rubber, ‘Rubbone’, is commercially made.NR bridge bearings made. 1960 : IISRP (the International Institute of Synthetic Rubber Producers) comes into being. 1961 : A new family of SRs consisting mainly of 3 types called ‘stereo regular’ emerges. 1964 : The International Standards Organisation (ISO) releases the draft standards for the technical grading and presentation of NR. 1974 : First death due to latex allergy reactions is reported from US. 1975 : The Rubber Board of India releases the high-yield (2500kg/ha) RRII 105 for commercial planting. 18

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1980 : The International Natural Rubber Organisation formed by NR producing and consuming countries, come into being to operate a buffer stock scheme to prevent violent fluctuations in NR prices. 1995 : the Occupational Safety Health and Administration (OSHA) urge healthcare facilities to address the latex allergy issue, generating a large market for medical gloves that do not induce allergy. 1998 : The Standard Malaysian Glove Scheme (SMG) is launched to offer NR latex gloves processed to standards prescribed in the US, Europe and the Asia/Pacific. 2001 : Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia organise ITRO (International Tripartite Rubber Organisation) to ensure remunerative price for NR. Also, at the initiative of the three, ARGMA (ASEAN Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association) is founded to take steps to secure a fair price for NR gloves. 2002 : China emerges as the top rubber (both SR and NR) consumer with 3060800 tonnes, displacing the US, which consumes only 3006000 tonnes in a year. 1.6. CONSUMPTION OF RUBBER IN BRITAIN AND AMERICA NR is a high performance industrial raw material. It is indispensable in many industrial uses, and accordingly there is a strong relationship between demand and level of economic activity. Rubber products are part of our daily life. Rubber occupied a place in history even before Columbus. The following table explain the consumption of rubber before 19th century by Britain and America. Table 1.1 Year 1830 1840 1850 1860 1870 1880 1890 1900 Consumption of Rubber (in tonnes) Britain 23 307 385 2152 7656 8479 13200 25644 America NA NA NA 750 4296 8109 15336 22026 Source: Rubber Research Institute of India – Kottayam. From the above table it can be seen that the consumption of rubber increased considerably. In Britain, it increased from 23 tonnes in 1830 to 25644 tonnes in 1900. Similarly, the consumption in America had up to 22026 tonnes in 1900 from 750 tonnes in 1860. 19

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1.7. SOURCES OF RUBBER Rubber is the latex obtained from several climbers and trees of flowering plants belonging to families Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae and Apocynaceae. Table 1.2 Sources of Rubber Common name Para rubber Ceara rubber Panama rubber Assam rubber Indian rubber Landolphia rubber Palay rubber Guayale rubber Dandelion rubber Botanical name Hevea brasiliensis Manihot heptaphylla Castilla elastic Ficul elastic Fiscus Krishna Landolphia kirki Source: Rubber Asia Jan.1999. 1.7 (A) Para rubber (Castilla rubber) This is obtaining from Castilla elastic of the family Moraceae. The plant is a native of Mexico and Central America. Trees which are 8-10 years old yield of good quality latex. 1.7 (B) Ceara rubber Also called Manitoba rubber, this is obtained from species of Manihot. These are grown in many tropical countries including India. 1.7 (C) Assam rubber The rubber tree is a native of Indo-Malayan region. The tree is found in northern India from outer Himalayas to Nepal and Assam, Khasi hills etc. A most and warm climate found in the forests of Assam is most suitable for the growth of these plants. 1.7 (D) Para rubber This tree is growing in plantations of South India. Rubber obtain from this plant is not good as para rubber. Stems, to a large extent and roots to a lesser extent are tapped to obtain the latex. Latex is collected usually from trees which are 20 years or more old. The rubber is not as elastic as para rubber due to a high resin content. 1.7 (E) Guayule rubbers Parthenium argentatum of the family Asteraceae is the source of this rubber. The plant is found in United States of America. 1.7 (F) Landolphia rubber Rubber is obtained from landolphia kirkii, belonging to the family Apocyanaceae. 1.7 (G) Palay rubber 20 Moraceae Moraceae Moraceae Apocyanaceae Cryptostegia grandiflora Apocyanaceae Parthenium argentatum Asteraceae Taraxacum koksaghza Asteraceae Family Euphorbiaceac Euphorbiaceac

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Members of Apocyanaceae like Cryptostegia grandiflora is the source of palay rubber. The plants are native of Madgascar near the African coast. 1.7 (H) Dandelion rubber The dandelion plant (taraxacum koksaghza) has tuberous roots, from which latex is obtained for the manufacture of rubber. 1.8. USES OF NATURAL RUBBER Natural Rubber is a versatile material used in the manufacture of more than 50000 varieties of products ranging from toy balloons to giant tyres produced in the country. It is obtained from rubber plantations and natural rubber is also used for precision and it could be used in a wide array of applications with synthetic rubbers. Because of its elasticity, resilience and toughness, natural rubber is the basic constituent of many products used in the transportation, industrial, consumer, hygienic and medical sectors. Of these major end-use markets for rubber, transportation is by far the largest single sector, with tyres and tyre products accounting alone for over 50 percent of Natural Rubber consumption. Truck and bus tyres would represent the largest single outlet for Natural Rubber, followed by automobile tyres. In General, rubber goods are used for commercial and industrial purposes. These nontyre rubber items include industrial products for example, transmission and elevator belts, hoses and tubes, industrial lining, and bridge bearings. Consumer products (included golf of football balls and other recreational and sports goods, erasers, footwear and other apparel); Articles for use in the medical and health sector are, condoms, catheters and surgical gloves) as well as seismic materials. For instance, over 500 and 2500 building are respective fitted with seismic rubber bearing in China and Japan? Latex articles such as gloves, threads, adhesives and moulded foams could be included in different categories in terms of end-use. Rubber is a yellowish, elastic, amorphous material obtained from the latex or milky sap of various tropical plants like the rubber tree. This latex is vulcanized, pigmented, finished and modified into various products like electronic insulation, elastic bands, tyres, hoses, gaskets and containers. Rubber is also known by its scientific name “caoutchouc” or “India rubber”. 1.8 (A) Transportation Rubber is an essential element for all forms of modern transportation. It is used for making tyres, tubes, engine mountings, brakes, radiator, hoses, oil seals, beadings, matting’s, linings, cushions etc., necessary for the automobile industry. Rubber is indispensable in other 21

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 forms of transportation like bicycles, ships, animal drawn vehicles, hand carts, railways, aeroplanes etc. 1.8 (B) Manufacture of industrial goods Rubber plays a significant role in the manufacture of industrial goods such as belts, packings, moulded goods, and hoses. 1.8 (C) Communications Rubber plays a vital role in communication and transmissions, mainly in the form of insulation for wires and cables. 1.8 (D) Health care In health care and family planning rubber plays an important role in making catheters, hospital sheeting’s, dipped goods, like surgical glove, examinations glove, condoms and a host of other products indispensable in patient care. 1.8 (E) Others Large quantum of rubber is used in making foorwear, proofed fabrics, sheets, floorings, mats and mattresses which are all essential for the day to day life of the people. GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION NR cultivation has been traditionally confined to a narrow belt extending from Kanyakumari district of Tamilnadu in the South to Dakshin Kannada and Kodagu districts of Karnataka. Later on, NR activities were extended to non-traditional regions. The total NR acreage is only about 0.57 million ha, there are over one million growers in the country, including 300 estates each with over 20 ha. In other words, NR cultivation in India is essentially a small holder’s affair. The following table shows the State wise distribution of Area under rubber at the end of each year from 1955-56 to 1970-71. Table 1.3 State wise distribution of Area and number of units from 1955-56 to 1970-71. Tamilnadu Kerala Year No. of units 1955-56 27133 1956-57 35473 1957-58 43783 1958-59 50005 1959-60 54822 1960-61 57260 1961-62 62832 1962-63 66206 Area in ha.s 78457 88879 99874 109518 116732 122628 132840 137713 No. of units 81 120 184 255 361 437 587 724 22 Area in ha.s 3773 4187 4393 4687 5111 5508 6238 6576 Karnataka No. of units 16 18 19 21 23 23 27 31 Area in ha.s 1503 1578 1589 1594 1598 1598 1631 1689

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1963-64 69874 1964-65 70917 1965-66 75026 1966-67 81015 1967-68 91802 1968-69 98344 1969-70 105112 1970-71 108917 144208 146151 154878 161074 169650 174734 182528 187762 856 896 1073 1249 1487 1626 2206 2463 6804 7223 7823 8082 8352 9248 9846 10015 36 36 36 66 89 112 145 188 1755 1755 1755 1844 3160 3102 3740 4708 Source: Asian Rubber Handbook and Directory 2005 The above table shows that Kerala alone contributes 89 per cent of the total rubber produced in India and an area of 187762 ha in 1970-71 under rubber plantations. Tamilnadu contributes second position of the total NR production. During the period, from 1955-56 to 1970-71, rubber cultivation in India has been traditionally increased both number of units and area. 1.9. RUBBER GROWING IN INDIA Rubber cultivation in India has traditionally been confined to a narrow belt extending from Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu in the South to Dakshin Kannada and Kodagu districts of Karnataka in the north and lying general west of the Western Ghats. Later it was extended to non-traditional regions including North East India, Goa, Konkan region of Maharashtra, parts of Odissha, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal, where rubber is now being grown. In recent years among non-traditional regions, Tripura has become one of the most thrust areas for Rubber growing because of its good reception worldwide. In fact, Tripura was declared the “Second Rubber Capital of India” by the Rubber Board. India has succeeded in rubber cultivation due to research and extension work undertaken by the Rubber Board. The worldwide demand for NR from Tripura is mainly because of its elasticity. The NorthEastern region contributes up to 5 per cent of the total population, while Karnataka contributes 3 per cent. An area of 113685 ha is covered by rubber plantations in the northeastern region. 1.10MANURING The majority of our rubber growing soils belong to the laterite and lateritic types with only little variations in the inherent fertility status. Hence the following general manorial recommendations are given for rubber of different age groups growing in typical lateritic soils. The fertilizer requirements of rubber vary considerably during the three important stages of growth, namely, nursery, immature and mature. 1.11. SEASONAL PATTERNS IN PRODUCTION 23

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The Production of NR in India is characterized by lean and peak periods on the basis of changes in climatic conditions in the major rubber producing centres. 1.11 (A) Lean period Lean periods are those spans of period in which production is at the lowest due to adverse climatic conditions. There are two lean periods, Feb - March and June – July. During Feb, and March, the low yield is due to high temperature. The Majority of rubber growers give rest to rubber trees. When monsoon is in progress during June and July, rubber tapping becomes difficult and production comes down. It is clear that the yield is the lowest even though rain guard is used for tapping during rainy season. In Kanyakumari district several growers do not use rain guards for continued tapping during rainy days. Rainfall is an important factor that affects NR production and productivity in the district. Kanyakumari district alone loses an average of 27 tapping days every year due to heavy downpour. The average production loss per tapping day is about 91 tonnes and 2457 tonnes every year which is 11 per cent of the total population in the district. If rubber growers in the district use rain guard, rubber production can increase by 11 percent p.a. 1.11 (B) Peak period The yield of NR reaches the highest level during the peak period with the most favourable climatic conditions. May and October to January are the two peak periods. 1.12. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM Rubber is one of the export products which generate revenue to the country. Today rubber is used for many purposes. It has an economic value. In, Kanyakumari district rubber cultivation is the prime activity. Nearly 80 percent of the people are engaged in rubber production and marketing. Rubber is the major cash crop, in this area. It enhances the regular income and brings foreign exchange and provides employment opportunities. The aim of study is to analyse the problems and the suggestions of rubber producer and marketers and to come out with possible practical suggestions. The questions that arise are as follows: a) What are the problems faced by the rubber cultivators and marketers? b) What are the socio-economic conditions of rubber producers? c) What are the reasons for the varying quality and quantity of rubber, produced in different seasons? d) How do the growers they get finance for rubber cultivation? 24

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Kanyakumari district of Tamilnadu provides the best suitable climatic conditions for planting rubber. The rainfall pattern, temperature range, wind speed and the other prevailing facilities are favourable for planting rubber. 1.13. SCOPE OF THE STUDY The present study has been made to examine the socio-economic conditions of the rubber tappers, rubber producers and the marketers of the rubber products. The study further identifies the factors influencing the rubber production and marketing and also examines the quality and quantity of rubber production in various seasons. This study further discusses the availability of finance, utilization of finance and problems faced by the rubber producer and distributors of rubber. 1. 14. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY 1. To study the factors influencing the production and marketing of rubber in Kanyakumari District. 2. To trace the marketing conditions of rubber in Kanyakumari District. 3. To analyse the problems that are faced by the rubber cultivators in the marketing of products in Kanyakumari District. 4. To examine the socio-economic conditions of rubber tappers. 5. To discuss the problems faced by the rubber tappers in Kanyakumari District. 6. To offer suggestions to increase productivity of rubber products and to enhance the marketability of rubber. 1.15. METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY Designing of a suitable methodology and selection of effective analytical tools are important for a meaningful analysis of any research problem. This section is devoted to a description of the methodology which includes sample design, collection of data and tools of analysis. 1.15 (A) Sample design The sample comprises natural rubber growers, distributors and rubber tappers in Kanyakumari District. In Kanyakumari district, there are 12 Rubber markets available for the rubber growers. In Tamilnadu rubber and clove are cultivated only in Kanyakumari District. The quality of rubber produced in Kanyakumari is one of the best in the world and the yield per acre is also very high compared to other parts of Tamilnadu. In Kanyakumari District, natural rubber is grown in about 35000 hectares and the estimated annual production is about 25000 tonnes. Rubber plantations are located in the northern part of the taluks namely Kalkulam, 25

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Vilavancode and Thovalai. The total numbers of samples were 550 from rubber producers, tappers, wholesalers and retailers by adopting purposive sampling. From the total sample of the study, 300 respondents are selected among the rubber producers (cultivators), 150 respondents are selected among rubber tappers, and 150 respondents are selected among distributors. Thus, equal importance is given to the production and marketing of natural rubber. 1.16. COLLECTION OF DATA Both primary and secondary data are used for the present study. The primary data are collected from the sample respondents by questionnaire method with well-designed and structured short questions. Before understanding the main survey, a tentative questionnaire is prepared and administered to the natural rubber growers and distributors in order to test the validity of the questionnaire. It facilitated the removal of the ‘non-response’ and unwarranted questions and thus the modified final schedule are prepared. 1.16(A) Primary data: The selected respondents are contacted in person and the objectives of the study are explained to them and their co-operation is ensured. A well-structured questionnaire is distributed to all the respondents. Direct personal interviews are arranged with the rubber growers, distributors, tappers, employees of rubber board and rubber industrialists to elicit essential information pertaining to the study. 1.16(B) Secondary Data: Following are the secondary data used for the study. i) Production, consumption, export, import, and stock of NR from 2001-02 to 201415. ii) World Level Rubber production by various countries from 2001 to 2015. iii) World rubber consumption from 2001-02 to 2014-15. iv) Consumption of NR in main producing countries in the world from 2001-02 to 2014-15. v) Type-wise production of NR in India 2001-02 to 2014-15. vi) Month wise export of Natural Rubber 2001-02 to 2012-13. 1.16(C) Sources of Secondary Data The following are the main sources from which the secondary data required for the present study were collected. Indian Rubber Statistics, Rubber Board Bulletin and Rubber Statistical News (Rubber Board, Kottayam), Planter's Chronicle (UPASI, Connoor), Rubber News (Polymer Publication, Mumbai), Parliamentary Digest (Business Information Bureau, 26

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 New Delhi), Rubber Statistical Bulletin (International Rubber Study Group, Bangkok), Hand Book of Rubber Statistics (All India Rubber Industries Association, Mumbai) and Rubber Asia ( Dhanam Publications, Cochin). The secondary data related to the study are also collected from journals, newspapers, magazines, books, dissertations, e-journals, websites and relevant official records. Adequate information related to rubber plant, methods, preservation, collection of milky rubber, functions of rubber board and process are obtained from renowned books referred from several libraries. Further, news papers such as The New Indian Express, The Hindu Business Line, Daily Thanthi, and The Hindu (Tamil and English) and journals like Rubber Growers Guide, Economic and Political Weekly, Southern Economist, Kissan World, Rubber Agro Management Diary, were the other sources of secondary data collected for the present study. The strenuous attempts have been made in collecting reviews of literature pertinent to the study from various dissertations, journals, conference proceedings and reports. 1.17PERIOD OF THE STUDY The field survey was conducted from August 2011 to March 2013. The reference period of the survey was from 2001 to 2015. 1.18SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: Rubber plantation in India is dominated by smallholdings. Although the State of Kerela continued to dominate in the country’s supply of NR, recent years have seen a gradual shift in favour of Non-traditional regions especially some districts of Karnataka and NorthEastern States. Natural Rubber is available in good quality and hence there is a huge scope for setting up of rubber based industries. Rising demand, steep rise in the price of SR and reduced supply from some previously dominate rubber-producing countries have contributed to a sharp rising trend of the price of NR over the last decade. Unfortunately, in the current year the prices of the NR in India have reduced drastically due to the cheap availability of import rubber. In India, the scope of further area expansion in traditional areas being limited, there has been some effort to extend rubber plantation to non-traditional areas, such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, Andhra Pradesh in the Southern part and Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya in the North-Eastern part of the country. 1.19CONSTRUCTION OF TOOLS The questionnaire prepared was used in this study. Before preparing the questionnaire, experts were contacted and discussions were done with rubber tappers, producers and marketers. The prepared questionnaire has been tested through the selected sample 27

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 respondents. Further, an in-depth analysis was done with the support of the questionnaire prepared for final study. 1.20STATISTICAL TOOLS To make the present research study highly effective, meaningful and fruitful, the following statistical techniques were used for collection, analysis and interpretation of data. A detailed and well prepared questionnaire used for this study and an interview method is adopted to collect necessary data to carry out this project. For data analysis tables and diagrams are being used extensively which facilitate the calculations of averages, percentages, standard deviation, correlation and coefficient of variations where they are necessary. In order to study the relationship between domestic price of NR and the variables such as production, consumption, international price, import and exported., . The following tools for this study like tables, charts, Spearman co-efficient of correlation , Chi-Square Test, Pair sample test, Ftest and T- test analysis, Liker’s five points scaling methods are used for various problems faced by rubber cultivators and marketing. 1.20(A) Compound Growth Rate (CGR) Compound growth rate is calculated for analysing the growth of production of rubber, import, export and consumption of natural rubber. The growth rate is calculated as below. Yt = Yo (Hg)t ABt where Ya=A and (Hg) = B Yt = ABt Taking log, both sides Log Yt = log A + t log B Ie Y* = A* + t B* When log Yt = Y* log A = A and log B = B* This is simple regression line in Y* and t B* can be estimated using least squares method. Then the estimate of compound growth rate can be obtained as ^ ^ g (Anti log B)-1). For expressing the compound growth rate in percentage terms, ^ has to be multiplied by 100. That is g 100 ^ (Anti log ^) -1) ×100 B g 28

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 AB y t* −   ) Y t * = 2 t  −  1.20(B) ANOVA ANOVA test is used to find the significant differences existing among the three or  ( t) n 2 more sample groups in relation to a variable. The total variance in a set of data is divided into variation within groups and variation between groups. The ANOVA technique is based on the concept of sum of squared deviations from a mean. Corresponding to the total variance and its two components, we have the total sum of squares (SS), between groups sum of squares (SSb), within groups of squares (SSw) is obtained by combining the sum squares i.e., the squared deviations of every raw score from its sample mean. The formula used is SSw = ∑d2 + ∑d2 + ∑d2 + ∑d2 + ∑d2 + …………………∑d2 1 2 3 4 5 n Where d = a deviation of every raw score of a category from its sample mean. Between groups sum of squares (SSb)is by calculating the difference between each sample mean and the total mean. The squared difference is multiplied by the sample size in the concerned category and these quantities. The formula is SSb= ∑[(x-x1)2 ×n] Where, X = any sample mean X1= the total mean n = the number of scores in any sample SSb = the between groups sum of squares The total sum of squares (SS1) is equal to a sum of within and between groups sum of squares. SS1 = SSb+ SSw 1.20(C) Mean Square The value of the sum of squares tends to become larger as variation increases and also as sample size increases. The mean square (or variance) is obtained by dividing SSb or SSw by the appropriate degrees of freedom. 29 ( *)( n

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 MSb = SSb/d MSw = SSw/dfw fb Where, MS = the be MSw = the w df = dfb = Where, k = the numb n = the total number of scores in all samples combined. er of samples (groups) 1.20(D) T - Test calculated among two va iables. respect to a variable. It is r Theoretical work on t-dist statistic” is defined as: x t = −µ S Where, S = x n  ( −x x2 n−1 distribution as: v f t C= + ( ) 1   Where, t = C = a constant required to m v = n-1, the number of degr To test the signific r t = 1 − r 2 x n − 2 2 30 ake the area under the curve equal to unity. ees of freedom. an ce of the correlation coefficient the followin g formula is used: t2   v  − +2 2 2 ) The t-distribution is derived mathematically under the assu mption of a normal ‘t’ test is used to study the significant differences among two gr is also used to test In the study for ribution was done by W.S. Gosset in the the significance of a co the latter purpose groups of samples with correlation co-efficient e‘t’ test is employed. e early 1900. The “tthe k-1 tween- groups mean squares ithin – group mean squares dfw = n1-k e degrees of freedom k

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Where, t is based on (n-2) d If the calculated val 5% level. If t < egrees of freedom. alue of t exceeds 1.20(E) Rank method (G To find out the prob for (n-2), d.f., the value of r is significant at the data are consistent with the hypothesis of an unc Garrett’s ranking technique) blems those are faced by the cultivators for tra d to rank the problems in transportation. Th and points were given in the following order. As per this method, re ranking technique was used asked to assign the rank for into score value with the help of the following formula: 100( 0.5) Percent position = Where, Rij = Rank given fo Nj = Number of variable ranked by j’the respondents r the i’th variable by j’th respondents With the help of Garrett’s Table, o the percent position estima scores. Then for each fact r, the scores of each individual are added a scores and mean values o considered to be the most im 1.20(F) Chi-Square Test (χ The significant dif fe expenses, sales and profit (χ2) 2 (χ2 f score is calculated. The factors having h portant factor. ) ated is converted into and then total value of highest mean value is R −i j Nj ncorrelated population. all factors and the outcomes of such ranking ransportation. Garrett’s he ranks were assigned respondents have been ng have been converted with the factor size of holding in studied through chi-square text ntity of scrap rubber, rent between quantity of rubber sheets, qua (χ2 ) (0 − E ) E O=observed frequen E=Expected frequencies cies The expected frequencies are calculated as follows ( E = -Row total t R X ct Gt ) -Coloum total-Grand total 31

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1.20 (G) Correlation co-efficient Pearson’s product moment correlation co-efficient is calculated to find the relationship between production and consumption of NR, import and export etc., ∑XY = ∑x/ ∑X2X ∑Y2 Where, X = x x− Y = y y− x = mean of x variable y =mean of y variable 1.21TESTING HYPOTHESIS • The production, tapping area and the price of natural rubber in Kanyakumari district will be on the rise from 2001-2002 to 2014-15 showing a positive correlation. • There is positive relationship existing between rainfall and productivity. The tapping affected by rain is more due to south west monsoon season in Kanyakumari district. • The domestic price of NR has been influenced by its production, consumption, import, international price, and imports and exports. • There is no positive correlation among the Rubber distributors in the three taluks under study as regards the problems they face in carrying out their operations. • There is a relationship between education and sources of NR growers in Kanyakumari district. • There is no significance between Sex wise classification of tappers and Government Support to the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district 1.22LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY The study takes into account only the production and marketing of natural rubber in Kanyakumari district. Therefore, the present study has certain limitations. They are, (i) The Non-availability of proper secondary data and records that were a great obstacle in this study. (ii) The result of the primary data duly depended upon the trustworthiness of the respondents. (iii) The scope of the study is limited as it pertains to only Kanyakumari district. (iv) The data are collected only from 150 rubber tappers, 300 producers (growers) and 150 marketers. (v) As all the growers were unable to express the details of market surplus in common unit of measurement i.e., tonnes, they were to be converted. In the process, the exact figures might not have been reported due to approximations 32

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 1.23. SCHEME OF THE REPORT The broad framework of the study is organized into the following chapters scheme. The present study “PRODUCTION AND MARKETING OF RUBBER WITH REFERENCE TO KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT” is divided into six chapters. The first chapter is inclusive of the Brief Introduction, History of natural rubber, uses of rubber, objectives of the study, hypothesis frame, period of the study, operational definition of concepts, methodology of the study, tools of analysis, limitations of the study and scheme of the report. The second chapter has undertaken extensive searches in journals, newspapers, magazines, books, dissertations, e-journals, websites and relevant official records. This chapter is devoted to the Review of Previous Studies and past literature. It include the profile of Kanyakumari District, the performance of the rubber board and the functions of the rubber industry The third chapter deals with the, Production and Consumption of natural rubber, world position of rubber, rubber cultivation in India, rubber cultivation in Tamilnadu, and socio-economic status of small NR growers in Kanyakumari District, and the process of natural rubber into rubber sheet. The fourth chapter presents operational definition of tapping, methods of tapping, analyses the Socio-Economic Status of NR tappers in Kanyakumari District. The fifth chapter deals with Marketing of natural rubber, international and domestic price of rubber sheets, import and export of rubber sheets, and analyses the socio-economic status of marketers (distributors) in Kanyakumari District The sixth chapter “summary of findings, suggestions, and conclusion” presents the major findings of the study, conclusion and suggestions based on the findings. 1.24SUMMARY • NR is considered as strategic because its consumption may be treated as an index of economic progress. Though it is produced in the poor countries major portion is consumed by rich countries. • In India rubber cultivation is on a narrow belt in the western coast extending from Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu state in south to Kodagu district of Karnataka state in the north. This area is often referred to as traditional area. Now cultivation 33

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 of rubber is also spread to non-traditional areas in states of Maharastra, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal. • A product remained in an unprocessed or partly processed state is called primary product. NR is primary though some sort of processing is done to produce smoked rubber sheets. This is because the processing does not change the essential characteristics of rubber. • The natural rubber from the inception to the present period has been produced under the directions and control of various governments. In the early period it was collected by imperial states like Spain, France, and England. Later its production and exchange was under the control of state governments. However the interests of all these efforts were to gain maximum surplus for the capital employed in rubber related business. 34

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 35

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER -II REVIEW OF LITERATURE 2.1 INTRODUCTION: This study is primarily concerned with the production and marketing of rubber. To carry on this study along with the scientific lines by choosing an appropriate research problem the investigator proposes to review some of the outstanding research publications available on the subject. Rubber plantation industry is noted for its ramifications. It has been found to be fertile a venue for explorative studies. As an employment, potential industry, stimulating a chain of production and marketing activities all over the country it has been studied. There is already a plethora of details available and hence efforts are made here to give a fitting introduction to them as a prelude for evolving a suitable research problem for the study. A review of the existing literature was found highly useful in designing the present study. A brief account of some of the relevant studies made previously is given under the four heads. a. Production of Natural Rubber b. Natural rubber tappers c. Marketing of Natural Rubber d. Rubber based industry. 2.1(a) REVIEW RELATING TO PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF THE NATURAL RUBBER (1) Tariff Inquiry Commission (1967), reports that, “Costs and Prices of Raw Rubber “the price of natural rubber has been maintaining an uptrend. It threatens to assume very grave dimensions with the passing of time; the commission feels that this problem could be got over by a careful introduction of highly scientific methods of rubber cultivation and rubber processing. (2) Bai Leela Baby (1990), in his study titled, “Location and Organization of Small Scale Enterprises in Kanyakumari District”, opines that, Tamil Nadu stands second place in the rubber cultivation in India. Kanyakumari District is the only Rubber production district in Tamil Nadu. There are 63 rubber based industries in Kanyakumari District. (3) Gangadharan made his study about the subsidy schemes introduced in countries all over the world to boost up the area under rubber cultivation. According to him 36

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 countries like Indonesia, Ceylon, Nigeria, Liberia and Philippines provided subsidies that have led to considerable increase in the area under rubber during 1956 to 1991.He has further pointed out that the India this scheme could be interested to pave the way for growth of the area under subdivision and fragmentations are a major hurdle for the growth of the rubber plantations in India. He wants that the government to adapt strict plantations to stop this case. (4) Economics survey 2009-10 stated that “India is the fourth largest producer of natural rubber with as 8.9 per cent share in world production in 2008. The small holding sector accounted for 89 percent of rubber planted area and 93 per cent of NR production deposits not having reasons geographically best suited to growing NR. India continued to record the highest productivity in the world with an average yield of 1,867 a Kg/ha productivity is further being improved through the rubber plantation development schemes in the 115 years plan. The schemes provide subsidy on planting supply of circle inputs with price concession, assistance for soil and water conservations and generation and distribution of quality planting materials. (5) The Hindu business line was stated that the rubber board gives financial assistance for acquiring computer and peripherals to facilitate access to information technology (IT) enabled services, under rubber plantation development scheme the assistance is limited to Rs.45, 000 per RPS or 75 per cent of the actual cost of the computer and peripherals RSP, functioning in their own building and having uninterrupted take linkage with companies in the RPS sector and good record of performance are eligible for the assistance the board expects that the usage of IT –enabled services among the rubber plating community will empower the growers with latest information in the field of cultivation world over and market situation internationally. (6) Rubber board chairman “Financial aid to form producer’s societies” about The rubber board has announced financial assistance to support formation of Rubber Producer’s Societies (RPSS) and Self Helps Groups(SHGs) This scheme has provision to support at the socio-economic development of the poor farmers and their families. It is intended to promote group approach for the effective modernization and improvement of the NR sector, as individual approach is not practical owing to the large number of such holding. The rate of assistance is Rs 6,000 for the formation of new RPSs and Rs. 3000 for SHGs. (7) Cyril Kanmony and Gnana Elplinston (2010) analysed the impact of climate change on important crops in Kanyakumari district. They have reported that the climate 37

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 conditions particularly the rainfall pattern of any country affect the area under cultivation, production and productivity of important crops like paddy, wheat, sugarcane and rubber. So the conversion of agricultural land into non-agricultural land has been going on in a great speed. They have suggested the district authorities to take suitable action not only to mitigate adverse impact of climate change but also the agricultural land Converted into non-agricultural land. (8) Saikundan, Saivamshimedak, in their article “What Makes rubber Stretchable?” Try to establish the following facts: Rubber is a natural polymer and possesses elastic properties. It is also termed elastomeric and has a variety of uses. It is manufactured from rubber latex which is a colloidal dispersion of rubber in water. This latex is obtained from the bark of the rubber tree. (9) Dharma raj. E, (1992)8, in his study entitle, “Natural Rubber Production in India”, states that adoption of high yielding varieties of rubber in the small holdings sector was unnoticed for a long time due to its insignificant contribution towards production and productivity of rubber. However, since 1960 many small rubber growers began to plant high yielding varieties of rubber seedlings. (10) The Hindu Business Line dated on October 12, 2010 stated that, Association of NR producing countries (ANRPC) by the chairman of rubber board. ANRPC is an intergovernmental organisation established in 1970, and has 11 member countries Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand And Vietnam. The member countries account for around 92 per cent of NR production in the world. 2.1 (b) REVIEW RELATING TO NATURAL RUBBER TAPPERS (1) Preetha. M, (2003), A Socio Economic Study of the Rubber Plantation Tappers in Cherupalors Village”, shows that, the employment in tapping is seasonal in nature. During the peak season the tappers are able to work an average of 17 days a month. During off-season tapping is not possible and therefore, the tappers would not get tapping. (2) It is fruitful to analyse the socio economic profile of rubber tappers in the light of the concept of ‘Livelihood Diversification’. Frank Ellis defined this concept as the process by which rural families construct diverse portfolio of activities and social support capabilities in their struggle for survival and in order to improve their standard of living. The evolution of technology in the rubber economy of Kerala and, its development in various stages of rubber cultivation and production are widely 38

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 discussed and analysed in The Hand Book of Natural Rubber, published by the Rubber Research Institute in Kottayam. One important problem now faced by rubber economy of Kerala and elsewhere is the non-availability of skilled labourers. (3) The Hindu Business Line Dated on 16 October 2010 stated that, According to Tileke Ratne and Nugawela the use of rain guard enabled not only to maximize natural rubber production but also to reduce seasonal unemployment of rubber tappers. Lack of skilled tappers is considered as the emerging problem in smallholdings. (4) The Hindu Business Line Dated on 15 October 2010 stated that, According to Ng Kok Tee, labour shortage is one of the major problems behind the decline in natural rubber production in Malaysia. There is a move of production factors from agriculture sectors to other sectors and the shortage of labour has been accelerating this process. (5) Pushpa Rajah in one of his articles points out that Malaysia has given more importance to the innovations in labour saving techniques of rubber cultivation. He states that future of Malaysian rubber industry will brighten up only by making rubber cultivation a less labour-intensive system particularly in tapping. The study predicts that in the near future, the approach to rubber as a monocarp solely for latex will slowly phase out. Then rubber will be planted for the timber as a primary product and latex will be an important by- product. (6) Parthiban Gopal(2004) in his study “The Rubber Tappers’ Monthly Wage Issue and the impact of the Collective Agreement of 2003”, has made the following observations the legitimate quest for a guaranteed stable level of income for rubber tappers in Malaysia may have been delayed unduly because the solution was thought to lie in a monthly wage scheme. But on theoretical and practical grounds, a monthly wage scheme was inappropriate in an estate setting. This realization came only in 2003 when a guaranteed threshold income of Rs 35,000 a month was obtained within the context of the existing framework of payment. The threshold income, although not large, exceeds the poverty line income (per capita). However, it is better viewed as a guarantee of stable income in usual situations when weather, land yields and agronomy conspire to deny the tapper the usual level of earnings. To the extent that these situations will not arise frequently, and most households have at least two working members, the debate whether the threshold is sufficiently high or not may have less practical significance. Nonetheless, an important concession has been won from the employers and the Union can seek to improve on this in future negotiations. 39

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Finally, reported average earnings under the 2003 Agreement are much higher than under the agreement before it both in nominal and real terms, suggesting some improvement in overall earnings were indeed achieved. (7) Benin City, Nigeria”, the study was conducted to analyse the technical inefficiency of rubber tapping in Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria Benin City, Edo State. Time series data of 129 tappers were analysed using stochastic frontier analysis. The tappers were sampled using simple random sampling technique. The result of the stochastic frontier production function revealed that the variance of parameters (gamma and sigma squared) of the frontier production function were both significant at p<0.01. There were substantial variations in estimated efficiencies ranging from 0.38 for the least practiced tapper and 0.99 for the best tapper with a mean technical efficiency of 0.72. However, the inefficiency model revealed that education, training and gender were found to have significant effect on tappers efficiency at one percent probability level. It was however recommended that addressing the tappers specific factors would reduce inefficiency in rubber tapping. (8) Rodrigo (2007) in his research paper “Adoption of different tapping systems in the rubber industry of Sri Lanka with special reference to low frequency tapping”, presents the following argument Tapping is the most costly activity in natural rubber production and the shortage of tappers is a serious problem in rubber plantations in Sri Lanka. Low Frequency Tapping (LFT) systems are considered to be a solution to these issues by reducing the number of tappers required and increasing tappers' income. With no information available on the adoption of different tapping systems, the present study was aimed to assess the existing tapping systems and associated effects on the productivity and other related issues in both plantation and smallholder sectors in Sri Lanka. Also, focus was given to identify the factors hindering for the adoption of LFT. Information was initially gathered using questionnaire based surveys and then verified through participatory workshops. The study revealed that the poor productivity in the plantation sector was highly associated with the shortage of skilled tappers. Productivity of the smallholdings tapped with family labour was less than that of smallholdings tapped with hired labour and this had been associated with the quality of tapping. In general, incorrect agro management practices have resulted in poor productivity. With no proper knowledge, the adoption of the LFT was rather poor in the plantation sector and zero in the smallholder sector. In view of addressing the issues related to the tapper shortage, an effective programme was proposed with the application of LFT. It 40

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 comprised with improved crop management practices and proper incentive schemes that transmit some benefits of LFT to tapper. Tapper training programmes and large scale demonstrations with model cluster systems were identified as primary needs for the effective introduction of LFT. (9) David S. Salisbury a, Marianne Schmink, (2008) in his study titled, “Cows versus rubber: Changing livelihoods among Amazonian extractivities”, the livelihood strategies of former rubber tappers in the Amazon region are rapidly shifting from extraction of non-timber forest products to mixed systems based on agriculture and small scale cattle ranching. Using a combination of participatory methods and Geographical Information Systems, a case study in western Acre, Brazil explores how rubber tapper livelihood strategies may be changing, and the implications of these changes for land use and forest cover. Field (cattle pasture and agriculture) expansion and the decline of forest extractives present challenges to many regional conservation and development projects such as sustainable settlement projects and extractive reserves seeking to develop forest-based livelihood alternatives to limit deforestation. Sustainability goals require researchers and policy makers to address the still experimental status of these forest-based organizational units, the heterogeneity and dynamism of extractives livelihoods, and the necessary importance of small-scale cattle ranching for insurance and income generation among many former and current extraction. (10) V.Verma (1993), in this book “Tapping of Rubber” to prove that the latex is obtained from the numerous latex as on the bark, which is arranged in connective rings alternating which rings of phloem. The inner part contains more verses than the outer part. The bark is cut on such a manner that the delicate growth layer of cambium is not damaged. Since the latex verses run spirally to right at an angle of 300 of the vertical pore, tapping is made from the upper left to the lower right at a 300inclination to obtain maximum yield. Tapping is begun in 6 years old trees. 2.1 (c) REVIEWS RELATING TO MARKETING OF THE NATURAL RUBBER (1) Antony Michel. K. (1993), in his study on “The Rubber Plantation Workers in Kanyakumari District-An Empirical Study”, opines that, the rubber plantation workers faced with two important problems. They are excessive increased in their in debentures and addition to creditors. These two problems have considerably retrained the growth of the material prosperity of the rubber plantation workers in Kanyakumari District. 41

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (2) Manju Stephenson is her study states that price determination depends upon demand and supply of the rubber product. The dry rubber sheet only provides the high incomes when compared to other categories of rubber sheet like wet sheet and raw materials in milk rubber. (3) Rubber board Chairman Sajeen Peter (2006) says that the rubber export exceeded 28617 tonnes during the first quarter of the current fiscal as against 5056 tonnes of exported during the same period of last year, recording 5.7 per cent increase. (4) Central office, Kottayam, Chairman (2007) opines that exports are expected to increase as long as the international prices rule higher than the domestic price and as such exports are necessary also. The stock position on June 30 last year was 89696 tonnes and this year it has come down to 64000 tones, he added. During the first quarter of 2006-07 the import was 20551 tonnes whereas it was 28132 tones, last year. During the last fiscal, production reached 8002625 tonnes attaining a growth rate of 7.1 percent while consumption registered a growth rate of 6.1 percent touching 801110 tones. According to board’s expectation rubber production during the current fiscal year would touch 831000 tones and consumption 841000 tones. Chairman also pointed out that the import expected was 45000 tonnes and export 50000 tonnes. The natural rubber consumption in all the countries except Malaysia increased and the world consumption was 87.8 lakh tones last year, registering a growth rate of 5.2 percent. (5) The Hindu Business Line dated on 28, October 2010 stated that According to traders, sheet rubber improved to Rs. 190 from Rs. 189.50 a Kg on fresh buying and short covering. An already tight situation in global supply of NR is expected to worsen further in the fourth quarter of the year. (6) The Hindu Business Line dated on September 15, 2010. Dr.Aravindan said that, “Mixed trend in rubber”. Traders stayed back on sheet rubber possibly sense its futures on NMCE shed the gains partially followed by selling at higher levels. The reports from the international market were also depressing. Sheet rubber market flat at Rs.169 per Kg in main market for RSSIV decline to Rs 170.19(172.46) (7) Rubber drops on global gulf worries: Rubber dropped passing an earlier advance am oil concern that demand in china may slow while a global surplus of the commodity used in tyres widens. The contract of commodity delivery on June in the Tokyo. Exchange drooped to close at 2.773 a kg ($2607) a tonnes rerating from a high of 277.8 futures have dropped 10 per cent this year. 42

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (8) The Hindu Business line dated on Dec 25- 2013 stated that the physical rubber price were mixed on Tuesday the market war in a holding mood On the every Christmas major counters were steady even in the absence of quantity sellers but ungraded rubber dropped marginally amidst scattered transaction ISNR 20 and latex improved furthered better demand while overall volumes were dull shell rubber finished unchanged at RS 160 a kg at kottayam and cochin accounting to traders and the rubber board. (9) The Annual Rubber Conference 2010 hosted by the Government of India held in Cochin on October 6.2010. The NR markets in the last two year have been governed by prediction and uncertainties in supply. Some visualized an oversupply of NR after 2012 on account of extensive planting area since 2005. (10) The Hindu Business line dated on Dec 19 - 2013 stated that the Spot rubber price were almost steady on Wednesday the market lost its direction despite a firm closing in domestic futures as there was no follow up buying by major consuming industries RSS-4 suffered marginally during late trading hours, while overall volumes were extremely atoll in most counters. 2.2 (d) REVIEWRELATING TO RUBBER BASED INDUSTRY (1) Mooharjee.K.N, (1968), in his study opines that, the need of the hour in the rubber industry is expansion and diversification. The rubber industry in India has been taking very great efforts to expand and diversify the production activity. Thus, today the rubber industries produces hydraulic breaks and air breaks with comprise highly specialized automatic applications. The techno creation of India to innovate highly sophisticated technologies which can ultimately facilitate the growth, expansion and diversification. (2) Chand Nair. (1969), is of the view that, the price of natural rubber has been under control. Since 1942 with short breaks both maximum and minimum prices for various grades of rubber have been fixed by the government only. He holds that these prices are comparatively higher than those in other natural producing countries. The rubber industry pays Rs. 300 per ton or excise duty for every tone of rubber purchased to the Rubber Board which is statutory body looking after the interest of the rubber plantation industry. This amount is collected from the industry for the betterment of plantation (3) Patel N.K, (1972), in his study finds that, the rubber industry is basically associated with chemicals, plastics, paints, lace and glass. However it cannot be denied that this is a strategic industry both in times of peace and war. He adds that the industry has 43

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 started developing steadily in an organized manner during the plan periods. Consequently the industry plays a vital role in the economy of the country which caters to the country entire needs in almost all the fields including defence, communication, agriculture and a number of other industries including textiles, pharmaceuticals Patel feels that the rubber industry has plenty of scope for department in the years to come as it does not have any serious bottle neck with regard to the availability of raw materials. (4) Lalithambika J. has made the following observation on the consumption of rubber. The demand for rubber depends on the growth in production of rubber products for domestic use as well as for export. In India, 93 per cent of the rubber is used for manufacturing rubber products for domestic consumption only seven per cent is processed into value added for export production. About 65 percent of the rubber goes for tyre and tyre products. In view of the massive expansion plans of the tuber goods manufacturing sector and the increasing exports, it will be difficult to reach selfsufficiency in natural rubber. The growth in demand is likely to be faster than what the plantation industry can supply. Exporting raw rubber can be an objective as the price of natural rubber in the international market is lower than that in India. (5) The Hindu Business Line in 2010 in its article, “Low priority for rubber in carbon trade irks planter” has given the data: Domestic market sought to encourage a forestation. The plantation industries, especially rubber growers, are feeling aggrieved. Plantation crop provide an array of ecosystem services such as protecting the top sail from erosion improving the water cycle and carbon request ration. But it does not enjoy the benefits of this since annual return is not among preferred in 15 sectors that are eligible for carbon trading. (6) Tharian George K. Toms Joseph Joby Joseph in their study explained that at the three trades control measures were introduced on natural rubber by the government of India. The new control measures are declaration of statutory minimum prices for RSS.4 and % effective from September 2, 2001 restriction of natural rubber imports only through the designated ports of Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam effective from December 10, 2001. Mandatory quality standards for both domestically processed and imported natural rubber in conformity with the standard specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards effective from December 12, 2001. Accordingly two perceived objective of new measures are to stabiles `domestic natural rubber prices at desired level and restrict import so as to prevent further deterioration in prices. 44

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (7) Sangltani (1973), in the words of, the Indian Rubber Industry manufacturers almost every conceivable rubber product from tiny balloons to giant tractor and aero tyres needed for internal consumption as well as for export. The industry is already catering to the requirements of defence like pharmaceuticals textiles and furniture as well as agricultural options. The industry has to depend still on foreign countries for certain vital and sophisticated rubber products. He feels that a major break in this areas should be attained it’s the rubber industry is given a good exposure to the use of certain modern technology. (8) Muniyandi, B.; Bankaranarayanan, S.; and Chellan, K. (1997) in there article “Marketing of natural rubber. A case study in Kalkulam Taluk of Kanyakumari District” the study reveals that the natural rubber plays and indispensable rule in manufacturing a variety of product. The world today uses as many as 5,000 different rubber products. India occupies a prominent position in rubber goods manufacturing and produce over 35,000 individual items. At present India occupies the fourth position in the production of natural rubber at global level, production was increased to 3, 93, 490 tons in 1992-1993, Which was about 25 times more compared to 15,830 tons in 1950-1951.The rubber industry is a labour absorption and export earning in industry. The number of labours engaged in rubber touched 3.05 lakhs, about Rs.671.85 crores was earned as foreign exchange through export of rubber goods in 1993. (9) The Hindu business line was stated that “Take Advantage of the price differentiating spot, forward markets Kochi” as future of natural rubber continues to grow, arrivals at warehouse of commodity exchange have increased enabling formers and arrivals of rubber at the exchange were house that increased 89 percent year 2001. 10)Ahmad Mahdzan Ayob and Antony Prato in their study on “An Economic Analysis at the United States point import demand and prices for natural rubber”, department at agriculture economic publication, at Florida Gainesville august 1971, The development of rubber economy of Kerala is an important step towards the advancement of agriculture sector in the state. There have been a number of studies about the spectacular development of small holding rubber sector and its dominant role in the total production of natural rubber. But these studies deal only with productivity, technology adoption, credit facilities and different schemes of governmental agencies to encourage production. 45

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 It is unfortunate that there has not been any specialized and comprehensive study on the problems of the unorganized tappers in the smallholdings. However, there are some studies about the agricultural labourers and plantation workers in the state. These studies are, to some extent, applicable to tappers as well. 2.2 CONCLUSION FROM THE LITERATURE REVIEW • There is a need for an efficient marketing organization in the small holding sectors and the support for receiving the real price of rubber sheet. • The tapping is a skilled work which needs proper training and guidance. A good tapping enhances the productivity. • As cost and income flows occur in different years, any financial analysis should be based on the present values of the cash flow rather than the actual values. • There are different rubber tapping techniques for increasing the rubber yield and productivity. The study found that the main factor leading to declining profit per hector of rubber plantation were labour problems and increasing wage rates. • The basic components of management in rubber plantation which are applicable to both traditional and non-traditional area are material and processing management, marketing management, financial management, labour management and farm management involves three elements viz, the scarcity of resources, their alternative uses and the objective of profit maximization. REFERENCES 1. Costs and Prices of Raw Rubber Tariff Inquiry Commission (1967), April 15, 1967, p.668. Rubber Small Holdings Economic Enquiry Committee, Government of India. 2. Bai Leela Baby (1990), “Location and Organization of Small Scale Enterprises in Kanyakumari District” Volume 35, Issue No. 15-18, pp. 23-25, Bangalore. 3. Gangadharan P.K.(1991) “Optimum Utilisation of NR in Rubber Industry in Kerala” p.67 4. Economic Survey 2009-10. 5. The Hindu Business Line Dated on March 2011. 6. Cyril Kanmony and Gnana Elplinston (2010) the impact of climate change on important crops in Kanyakumari district. 7. Sajeen Peter “Financial Aid to form producer’s society”. RBB-Kerela 8. Saikumdan, saivamshimedak, (1980) “what makes rubber stretchable?” RBI , Regional Office, kerela. 9. Dharmaraj (1992), “Natural Rubber Production in India”, Kisan World, Vol. 19, No. 12, pp. 30-31, Delhi. 10. The Hindu Business Line Dated on October 2010. 46

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 11. Preetha. M. (2003), “A Socio Economic Study of the Rubber Plantation Tappers in Cherupalors Village”, Unpublished Project report to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Department of Economics, Scott Christian College, and Nagercoil. 12. Frank Ellis ‘Livelihood Diversification of rubber tappers’ unpublished project report to Madurai Kamaraj University. 13. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 16 October 2010. 14. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 15 October 2010. 15. Pushpa Rajah a (2007) Rubber Board Bulletein, Vol.28 no.3. 16. Parthiban Gopal “The Rubber Tappers’ Monthly Wage Issue and the impact of the Collective Agreement Of 2003”, Kajian Malaysia, Jld. XXII, No. 2, December 2004, pp.63-79. 17. Giroh. D.Y. and E.F. Adebayo “Analysis of the Technical Inefficiency of Rubber Tapping in Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Benin City, Nigeria”, Journal of Human Ecology, Vol.27, Issue.3,2009, pp.171-174. 18. Rodrigo, “Adoption of different Tapping Systems in the Rubber Industry of Sri Lanka with special reference to Low Frequency Tapping”, Journal of the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka, 2007,pp.121. 19. David S. Salisbury a, Marianne Schmink, (2008), “Cows versus rubber: Changing livelihoods among Amazonian extractivists”, in Amazon. 20. V. Verma, tapping of rubber The Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture, Annual Hindu Publication, Chennai, 2004, pp.163. 21. Antony Michel. K. (1993), “The Rubber Plantation Workers in Kanyakumari District-An Economic Study”, Unpublished Dissertation to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Department of Economics, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil. 22. Manju Stephenson “ Production and Marketing of NR in Kanyakumari District”, Unpublished Dissertation to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 23. 1 Sajen Peter, “Rubber export registered a record 28617 tonnes”, Rubber Board, June 30, 2006. 24. Central Office, Kottayam, Chairman, “Rubber Export registered a record 28617 tonnes”, Rubber Board, June 30, 2006. 25. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 28, October 2010. 26. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 15 September 2010. 27. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 10 February 2012. 28. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 25 December 2013. 29. The Annual Rubber Conference, 2010 hosted by the government of india held in Kochin on 6th October 2010. 30. The Hindu Business Line Dated on 19 December 2013. 31. The Annual Report of Kanyakumari District 2000-2001. 32. Narayanan Nair P.N., “The Rubber and its Cultivation”, the Rubber Board, Kottayam. 2001, p.80 33. Mooharjee,K. N., “Heavy Demand calls for Substantial Expansion”, Commerce, July 6, 1968, p. 35. 34. Chand Nair (1969) “Price Control Mechanism in Rubber Industry,” Commerce, Annual Number 1968, p.221. 35. Patel, N.N.K., “Raw Materials for the Rubber Industry”, Commerce, June 17, 1972, p.159. 47

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 36. Lalithambika, J.”Rubber Challenges from rising demand”, The Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture, Annual Hindu Publication, Chennai, 1994, pp.83-84. 37. Tharian George K., Toms Joseph Joby Joseph, “Natural Rubber in Post – QRS Regime”, Economic and political weekly, Vol.XXXVII, No, 32, August 10, 2002, p.319. 38. Muniyandi, B.; Bankaranarayanan, S.; and Chellan, K. (1997) “Marketing of natural rubber. A case study in Kalkulam Taluk of Kanyakumari District” 39. The Hindu Business Line Dated on January 23 2012. 40. Ahmad Mahdzan Ayob and Anthony Prato, (1971) “a economic analysis of the united states important demand and price of nature rubber”, Rubber Asia vol. XXXV p.107. 48

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2.3 PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA 2.3 (A) TAMILNADU Tamil Nadu is situated on the south eastern side of the Indian peninsula It lies between 8.5° South 13.35° north 76.15° east and 80.20° west. It is bounded by the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea in the south, in the west by the state of Kerala and Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Tamil Nadu has an area of 1, 30,058 square kilometres and its capital is Chennai. Tamil Nadu is divided in to 32 districts. 2.3 (B) PROFILE OF KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT 2.3 (B) 1.. INTRODUCTION OF KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT: Kanyakumari district came into existence in the year 1950 as a result of the reorganization of states on the basis of vernacular and was added to the map of the Tamil Nadu. It was known as the granary of Travancore due to its vast stretches of paddy fields, rich forests and abundant mineral sands. This district has a pleasant climate and has the advantage of both the South-West as well as the North-East monsoons. It has many charming tourist spots the best being the capeComorin, the meeting place of the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. The meeting point of the seas is the place where the “Continent ends in a swan-song of broken rocks and mingling oceans”. Kanyakumari district has been named after the Goddess Amman, who is the favourite deity of large number of people of this district. The legend is that the Goddess Parvathi has taken incarnation as Devi Kanya and did penance on one of the rocks of this land’s end to obtain the hand of Lord Siva. 2.3 (B) 2. Ancient History Kanyakumari district consists of two parts locally known as Nanjil Nadu and Idai Nadu. The names of the villages of the district such as Azhagiapaandipuram,, Bhootha Pandy, Cholapuram and Kulasekaram reveal that these places were governed by several rulers at different periods of time. It is learnt that Nanjilnadu was under the rule of the Padiyas till the early 10th century and then under the Cheras. The Idai Nadu which includes Kalkulam and Vilavancode taluks, was under the rule of the Cheras. When the power of the Cholas declined due to the rise of Hoysalas and Western Chalukyas, the Vennad (Travancore) Chief-taint took advantages of the situation and gradually established their hold on considerable areas in Nanjilnadu. Veera Kerela Varma was one such chief-taint who styled himself as Nanjil Kuravan. 49

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2.3 (B) 3.General Information of Kanyakumari District Kanyakumari district is situated in the Southern most end of Indian Sub-Continent. The District has a large number of historic monuments and temples. A series of kingdom are known to have ruled Kanyakumari and most important being the Chera, Chola and Pandya. On the recommendation of the commission Agastheeswaram, Thovalai, Kalkulam, Vilavancode and Shenkottai taluks were given to Tamil Nadu among which the first four were grouped to form a new Kanyakumari district in Tamil Nadu. It is predominantly an agricultural region. The district has a total area of 1672 square kilometre. 2.3 (B) 4.SOIL CONDITION In Kanyakumari district the soil is acid in nature. The contents including nitrogen, phosphoric acid, potash and limes are found to be 0.08 percent, 0.02 percent, 0.09 percent and 0.17 percent respectively. 2.3 (B) 5.AGRICULTURE Agriculture is the main occupation of this district. This district procures paddy, tapioca, and oil seeds such as Groundnut and Coconut besides, commercial crops like cashew, rubber, fruits and spices. The important feature of this district is the production of seasonal Mangoes. 2.3 (B) 6.SPICES AND OTHER PLANTATION Spices like cardamom, clove, and pepper are also cultivated in kanyakumari district. No other region in Kanayakumari district is suitable for the production of spices. Paddy is the main crop of this district. It is grown in two seasons. First crop is sown in the months of April – June (Kannipoo) and second crop is raised in the months of September (kumba Poo) Tapico is raised as a subsidiary food crop in Kanyakumari District. The highest planting season in April – May. Coconut is the main cash crop which occupies the second position in the gross cropped area and major portion of the non – good crop area of the Kanyakumari district. Banana is cultivated mainly during March- May and September- October. Groundnut is raised during March - April and October – November as rainfall crop to a small extent. 2.3 (B) 7.FORESTS Due to rich soil and favourable rainfall the taluk is endowed with a very valuable tropical evergreen forest. Elevation of forest from the sea level has been estimated at 1850 meters under regeneration programme acacia (babul) and eucalyptus species are planted in the forests. 50

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The important species of trees found in these forests include teak, rose wood, wildjack, Manjalladambu, Ventlok, Vengali, Pilljamaradhy and kurumarudhy. Minor forest products are available like bamboo, Cane, reed, Lemon, Lenon, gross and medicinal plants. 2.3 (B) 8.TEMPERATURE The temperature which is normally between summer 27° C (81° F) and winter 16° C (61°F) offered good weather condition and quite favourable for the cultivators 2.4 THE RUBBER BOARD Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu provides the best suitable climatic conditions for planting Rubber. The rainfall pattern, temperature range, wind speed etc prevailing this district is already suitable for planting Rubber. The Indian rubber board was constituted under the Rubber (Production and Marketing) Act 1947. This act was passed on the recommendation of an adhoc committee appointed by the Government of India in 1945 and it came into force on 19 April 1947. The Rubber production and Marketing (Amendment) Act of 1954 made certain changes and renamed as “The Rubber Board”. The Rubber Board helps the small growers get subsidy from the central government. The head office of the rubber board is in Kottayam. These are so many branches related with Kottayam main office; the branches are in Nagercoil, Marthandam, Manalodai in Kulasekharam area. The rubber board was started about 50 years back. These offices were started for the benefit of small growers this will enhance the production and marketing of rubber. (a) Functions of Rubber Board The functions of the board as defined under the Act are:  To promote the development of the rubber industry.  Undertaking, assisting or encouraging scientific, technological or economic research.  Training students in the improved methods of planting, cultivation, manuring and spraying.  The supply of technical advice to rubber growers.  Improving the marketing of rubber.  The collection of statistics from owners of estates, dealers and manufacturers.  Securing better working conditions and the provision and improvement of amenities and incentives to workers. (b) Duty of the board 51

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5  To advise the central Government. On all matters relating to the development of the rubber industry including the import and export of rubber.  To advise the Central Government with regard to participation in any international conference.  To submit to the Central Government. and other such authorities as may be prescribed half yearly reports on its activities and the working of this act and  To prepare and furnish such other reports relating to the rubber industry as may be required by the central government from time to time. (c) Constitution The rubber board functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the government of India. The board has a chairman appointed by the central government. He is the principal executive officer responsible for the proper functioning of the board and implementation of its decisions. There are 25 other members of the board consisting of: Two members to represent the state of Tamil Nadu. One of them shall be a person representing rubber producing interest.  Eight members to represent the state of Kerala. Six of them shall be representing the rubber producing interest, three of such being persons representing the small growers.  Ten members to be nominated by the central government two of whom shall represent the manufacturers and four labour communities.  Three members of parliament two of whom shall be elected by the house of the people and one by the council of states.  The Rubber Production Commissioner of the Rubber Board  The executive director. (d) Rubber Production Department The department headed by the Rubber Production Commissioner is responsible for planning, formulation and implementation of schemes for improvement and expansion of rubber cultivation and production. The following activities are undertaken by Rubber Production Department  Rubber plantation department scheme  Production and distribution of improved planting materials  Advisory and extension services to growers  Demonstration of scientific planting and production  Supplies of equipment and materials requiring popularization. 52

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5  Promotion of Self Help Groups among small growers.  Training of tappers. (e) Rubber processing and market development division  Implementing schemes for financial assistance to Rubber Processing Schemes, Cooperative Societies and companies jointly promoted by Rubber Processing Schemes and the board  Organising training programmes and extension activities in the area of rubber processing for growers, Rubber Processing Schemes processing companies and cooperatives societies for quality up gradation.  Providing training in grading and grading support to others. (f) Market Promotion Department The Market Promotion Department functions under the direct control of the chairman. (g) Market Intelligence Cell a) Collection, compilation and dissemination of natural rubber prices. This includes the daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly and yearly prices of various grades of natural rubber in the domestic as well as in the international market. The price data are disseminated through print and visual media. b) Providing sales and marketing support to companies promoted/assisted by the rubber board. c) Conducting market surveys and market analysis. d) Publishing the directory of Rubber Goods Manufactures in India 2.5 ASSISTANCE FROM THE RUBBER BOARD FOR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT The Rubber Board has introduced a financial assistance scheme for giving transportation subsidy to the Rubber Producer’s Societies (RPSs) engaged in collection and transportation of latex from plantations to the collection/processing centres’ with a view to reducing the border by way of transportation. The assistance will be at the rate of 25 paisa per kilogram of dry rubber collected as latex. Only those RPSs which are engaged in latex collection or sheet processing and trading through the Rubber Board’s companies or marketing co-operatives are eligible for the assistance. By the scheme, the Board aims at increasing the trading share of the RPSs, quality improvement of their produce, price competitiveness and there by wider acceptance of Indian Natural Rubber in the world market. 2.6 ARASU RUBBER CORPORATION LIMITED, Nagercoil 53

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (a) Field rubber production The degree of 4279.78 ha, of forest land is being managed under rubber cultivation on lease from the forest department. Tapping was done in 2037 blocks. The corporation has achieved a production of 2030 tonnes of rubber against the target of 2050 tonnes during the year. The division wise NR production from 2002-03 and 2004-05 by the Arasu Rubber Corporation, Nagercoil. There are five divisions namely Mylar, Kodayar, Chithar, Manalodai, and Keeriparai. Rubber production from 2002-03 to 2004-05, based on divisionwise production have made. 2004-05, 4785 ha of forest land was taken over on lease basis from the government of Tamil Nadu. Out of this, an extent of 505.92 ha.has been handed over to the forest department during the year 1998-99 as per G. O Rt.No. 367 Environment and Forest (FR VII) department dated on 03-09-1997. The following table explain the divisionwise production of NR by Arasu Rubber Corporation, Nagercoil. Table 2.1 Serial Name of the division 1. Keeriparai 2. Manalodai 3. Chithar 4. Mylar 5. Kodayar Field Rubber Production No of Total area in ha. 953.30 968.90 859.58 612.30 885.70 Blocks 329 518 438 329 423 Collection of rubber in M.T 316 461 432 339 465 . Source: 26th Annual Report of ARCL The above table depicts that the division wise production of natural rubber by ARCL, Nagercoil. There are five divisions such as Mylar, Kodayar, Chithar, Manalodai, and Keeriparai. Maximum rubber production is made by Manalodai division. An extent of 4279.78 ha of forest land is being managed under tuber cultivation on lease from forest department. During the year 2012-13 tapping was done in 2203 blocks. The corporation has achieved production of 1682 tonnes of rubber against the target of 2000 tonnes during the year under report. During the 2012-13 year, the production performance of processed rubber was as detailed below. Table 2.2 Rubber Production Grade Grade EBC Grade Keeriparai rubber factory 514 54 Mylar rubber factory __ Total (in tonnes) 514

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Cenex Skim crepe Others Total 562 61 4 1,141 763 80 11 855 1.325 142 16 1998 Source: 30th Annual Report of ARCL The above table shows that the production of different varieties or categories of rubber sheets for 2012-13 by the ARCL, Nagercoil. The EBC grade was in 514, Cenex was in 562, skim creepe was in 61, and other was in 4 tonnes of rubber sheets were produce in Keeriparai blocks. Cenex was in 763, skim creepe was in 80, and other was in 11 tonnes of rubber sheets were produce in Mylar blocks. 2.7 SALES IN RUBBER The ARCL sole the EBC, Cenex, Skim Crepe and Others Grade quality of rubber sheets are sold in the market. In 178 tonnes of grade RSS I high quality of rubber sheets was sold only in the market in 2004-2005. During the year 2005-06, 2638 tonnes of rubber was sold and a revenue of Rs. 1872.83 lakhs, in 2004-05, 2068 tonnes of rubber was sold and a revenue of Rs. 1252.43 lakhs, 2510 tonnes of rubber was sold revenue 1450.35 lakhs in 200304, and Perunchani rubber factory , there was no production made during the study period. During the year 2007-08, 2056 tonnes of rubber was sold and revenue of Rs. 1940.77 lakhs has been realized. During the year 2008-09, 1723 tonnes of rubber was sold and revenue of Rs. 1779.31 lakhs has been realised.During the year 2012-13 the production performance of processed rubber was as detailed below. Table 2.3 Factory Production Grade EBC Grade Cenex Skim crepe Others Total Keeriparai rubber Mylar rubber 388 460 50 17 __ 662 75 40 916 741 1122 125 21 1657 Source: Annual Report of ARCL The above table shows that the production of different varieties or categories of rubber sheets by the ARCL, Nagercoil. The EBC grade was in 388, Cenex was in 460, skil creepe was in 50, and other was in 17 tonnes of rubber sheets were produce in Keeriparai blocks. 55 Total (in tonnes) 388

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Cenex was in 662, skil creepe was in 75, and other was in 40 tonnes of rubber sheets were produce in Mylar blocks. 2.8. RUBBER INDUSTRY IN INDIA The Indian rubber industry is posed to grow with increased potential in the days to come, both in terms of strength and dominance. The robust domestic demand and the increasing global prospects for natural rubber have made it inevitable for the industry to retain its domain as a vital component. India is the fourth largest producer and second largest consumer of NR in the world. Increasing prices and improved has provided a resurgent incentive for the rubber growers to produce more which has resulted in increased production India is considered as one among the fastest growing economic globally. There are about 4600 registered units comprising of 30 large scale, 300 medium scale and around 4400 small scale and tiny units which form part of the colossus of the natural rubber industry in India. Indian rubber industry is unique in the sense it is a major producer and consumer of natural rubber. Though rubber products manufacture started in the country in the year 1920, rapid growth in the last four decades has transformed the rubber products manufacturing industry one of the important sectors of the Indian economy. Considering the large population and the large manufacturing base particularly in the automobile industry and the availability of competitive labour, the country offers great opportunities for rubber product manufacture. With further investments in Research and development infrastructure, the country is poised to become a leader in rubber products manufacture in the years ahead. The world rubber production was considered to be very unstable during the last few years. Comparatively, India production of rubber is consistent at the rate of 6 percent p.a. The rubber industry in India has been growing in strength and importance. This is the result of India’s burgeoning role in the global economy. India is also one of the fastest growing economies globally. These factors along with high growth of automobile production and the presence of large and medium industries have led to the growth of rubber industry in India. 2.8(A) STRUCTURE OF INDUSTRY The two broad groups of the Indian rubber industry are the tyre and the non-tyre sectors, the former promoted mostly by large industrial houses and multinational companies and the latter comprising mostly by small and medium scale units. Many of the units in the small scale sector are tiny units consuming less than 10 tonnes of rubber per annum. It is pertinent to point out that the total number of units decreased from 5066 in 2001-02 to 4327 units in 2008-09. This is mostly on account of the closure of many SSI / tiny units which could not survive the present highly competitive environment and the high cost of raw 56

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 materials. 2.8 (B) CHARACTERISTICS OF THE INDIAN RUBBER INDUSTRY  The following are the special characteristics of the rubber industry in India which make India little different from many of the other natural rubber producing countries.  India is a major producer and consumer of natural rubber. The rubber products manufacturing industry in India has been mostly inward oriented, catering to the domestic market.  In recent years India has entered the global market, exporting both raw natural rubber as well as rubber products  With its large population base, India is emerging as a large market for rubber products and with the opening up of the economy, and import of rubber products has also been increasing in recent years.  The rubber product mix in India is based mostly on dry forms of rubber, dictated by the requirements of the domestic market. 2.8(C) MANUFACTURING PROCESS IN RUBBER INDUSTRY The Manufacture of rubber products generally involves the following three important steps: • Mixing of the rubber with certain chemical ingredients in the correct proportion and manner to form a rubber compound. • Providing appropriate shape to the compound similar to the product being manufactured. The shaped compound is called blank. • curing of the blank under correct temperature and pressure for a fixed time to get the product. • Large quantities of water are required during processing of rubber (mainly for washing, churning and dilution). 2.8(D) MACHINERY MANUFACTURING Machinery manufacturing is an important sector of the Indian rubber industry. This sector had a humble start in the 1950s and it gradually developed into a position to cater to almost all the requirements of the domestic industry. The growth of this sector has contributed substantially to the faster development of the NR processing and product manufacturing sectors. 2.8(F) RUBBER CHEMICALS 57

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Chemicals manufacturing is yet another important segment of the rubber industry. This segment has grown fast since the 1960s. It now produces almost all the important rubber chemicals and additives for rubber processing and products manufacture. The segment has at present a large number of production units located in all the important rubber products manufacturing centres. 2.9 RUBBER RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS For the scientific development of the Indian rubber industry, there are number of institutions providing Research Development support services. The important institutions providing such services are listed below: • Indian Rubber Manufacturers Research Association, Mumbai. • The Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), Kottayam. • The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur (Polymer Science Department) • University of Cochin (Polymer Science & Rubber Technological Department). • National Chemical Laboratory, Pune (Polymer Division). • Regional Research Laboratory, Trivandrum. • Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Trivandrum. • Indian Space Research Organisation, (ISRO), Trivandrum. A number of institutions offer technical training both for new entrepreneurs and for existing units to upgrade the skills of the technical human resource . 2.10KONAM LATEX INDUSTRIES PRIVATE LIMITED (KLIP) Konam latex Industries (P) Ltd stated manufacturing surgical gloves in 1986 with installed capacity of 6.24 million pieces per year. The manufacturing units are situated on a total area of 300000 sq.ft in Nagercoil,Tamilnadu. Today the production capacity is 9 million pieces per month, growth of 1730 per cent over a period of 18 years and KLIP is the largest manufacturer of surgical gloves in India. 2.11 SUMMARY OF THE CHAPTER II. The review of literature indicates the importance of natural rubber in Kanyakumari district. The review helped in the generation of ideas formulation of hypothesis, selection of various tools for analysis and to arrive at meaningful conclusion. It can be understood from the review that this work tries to fill a few gaps in the subject of study. This chapter also explains clearly that profile of the study area, rubber industry, functions of rubber board and rubber research institutes in india. 58

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 59

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER - III NATURAL RUBBER PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION 3.1 INTRODUCTION Natural Rubber is obtained from the milky white fluid called latex, found in many plants. NR is nature’s most versatile vegetable product. It is the only natural material that is truly elastic, a property that allows it to be soft yet tough. Rubber gently but firmly holds everything together and absorbs humps and shocks’ to make our lives so much more comfortable. This special property has made rubber virtually indispensable and products made from rubber, now number in tens of thousands. NR is a stretchy, flexible and waterproof, hydrocarbon polymer which is derived from latex and drawn by incising into the bark of the rubber tree. It is refined into the usable rubber. The British planters introduced the commercial cultivation of NR. Rubber is a vital product in the life of every human being in the contemporary era. It supports the life of the mass through its diverse benefits. This material has multifarious uses and there are hardly any segments of society, which do not use rubber and based products. In our daily life, we are always involved with products made of rubber. The use of rubber products has made the life human beings in the modern age more comfortable. Right from the simple eraser to the wheels of the vehicles of all size, airplanes, and space shuttle, use of rubber is made in one form of other. From everyday articles such as rubber bands and shoes to mattresses, tyres and windshield wipers, rubber is so much a part of our lives that we take it for granted and assume that rubber has been with us for a very long life. India is one of largest producers of the plantation crops in the world because India is blessed with a rich and diverse agro climatic profile. Among the plantation crops in India, tea, coffee, and rubber have greater importance. Rubber plantation is a creation of human ingenuity and physical labour by applying agricultural practices. It exerts a profound influence on the economic and social life of the people. It provides employment to more than 4 lakh persons directly and a large number of persons in the various related activities indirectly and plays a critical role in the development of rural and hilly areas and under developed remote regions in the country. The term rubber plantation refers to all the individuals and organizations engaged in 60

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 the activities in connection with the cultivation of rubber, maintenance, operation, harvesting, processing and marketing. Rubber plantation provides the principal raw material required for manufacturing of variety of rubber products ranging from toy balloons to tyres for giant earth moving equipment’s. In India commercial cultivation of rubber was started in 1902 by European plants at Thattekad near Alwaye. The plantation was popularly known as Periyar Syndicate Rubber plantation sector in India employs nearly four lakh persons directly. It is noteworthy that good numbers of women are employed in this sector. Rubber plantation also provides a variety of ancillary products like honey, seed oil, seed cake and rubber wood. Being a tree crop, it has tremendous potential for eco-restoration. 3.2 NATURAL RUBBER Natural Rubber (NR) is the unique renewable resource of nature. Though rubber has been found in the latex over 2000 species of plant, Hevea Brasiliensis is the most important commercial source of natural rubber for reasons of high yield and low impurities. It is commonly known as rubber tree. Natural rubber is a tough material which possesses properties of plasticity, resistance to electricity, adhesiveness and elasticity. NR constitutes the basic raw material for more than 50000 different articles for everyday use. This has made rubber industry the second largest in the world next to iron and steel So NR plays an important role in the industrial and economic development of the country. 3.3.CULTIVATION The cultivation of is chief means of livelihood for millions of people in many rubber growing countries of the far east, who depend directly or indirectly on wages or profits received from the production of rubber plantation . 3.4 METHODS OF CULTIVATION 3.4.1 Preparation of land: Rubber plantations in India are mostly on sloppy and undulation hilly lands. Adequate soil conversation measure is necessary when the rubbers are planted in these areas. In south India, the month of June and July are very much suitable for planting rubber, the preparation of land should be finished before that period. The clearing operations should begin early to avoid delay in planting. In slightly undulating areas square or rectangular planting can be adopted. The lines should be taken east - west to get the maximum sunlight. In hilly areas the cutting of planting terraces is advisable to aid soil conservation making continuous terraces from the best protection against erosion. Proper drainage is essential on low lying lands and sloping sides which are less collapsible than vertical sides. 3.4.2 Planting of rubber trees: 61

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 It is essential that planting of rubber plants should be carried out during favourable weather. The planting density recommended is 420 to 455 plants per hectare. Fitting is necessary to provide favourable conditions for the growth of the young plants. After planting, these plants should be inspected at regular intervals. Vigorous shoot should be allowed to grow. Further planting may be carried out appropriately to remove side shoots developing up to about 24m from the ground level. 3. 4.3Manuring of rubber trees The Rubber plants have been found to respond well to systematic manuring which provides adequate nourishment to the plant. The extent of response for manuring depend upon several factors, the most important ones are the nature and fertility of the land. 3.4.4Intercropping: The main objectives of growing intercrops in the immature phase of rubber plantations are ancillary income generation. Intercropping is recommended in the first three years of planting as rubber canopy takes two or three years to shade the inter row areas. It is popular among the smallholders and is normally determined by the asset levels, nature of labour, alternative sources of income, relative agronomic suitability and profitability of the intercrops. Popular intercrops in India are 'nendran' banana, non-'nendran' banana, pineapple, ginger, turmeric and tapioca. The benefit-cost ratio of intercropping with banana in the first three years of rubber planting ranged from 1.51 to 1.60 lakhs, with ginger from 0.84 to 3.02 lakhs and turmeric from 1.52 to 2.47 lakhs. 3. 4.5Dry Natural Process (DNP) This natural process involves compressing the rubber at a high temperature and pressure. The plant proteins responsible for the allergy are denatured at these temperature and pressure and therefore pose a lower risk than rubber made by the NRL process. 3.4.6 Natural Rubber Latex Process (NRL) This process involves use of natural rubber latex in a concentrated colloidal suspension. This type latex contains a much greater proportion of plant proteins than latex produced by the dry natural process. Most immediate type reaction result from exposure to Natural Rubber Later Process. 3.4.7 Collection of Rubber (LATEX) The half shell of coconut is used as the collection container for the latex in south India where coconut is in plenty. But glazed pottery is aluminium or plastic cups are more common elsewhere, the cups or coconut shells are supported by a wire that encircles the tree. This wire 62

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 incorporates a spring so that it can stretch as the tree grows. The latex is led into the cup by a galvanized ‘Spout” that it has been knocked into the bark. 3. 4.8 Yield Cycle of Rubber The yield cycle of rubber involves broadly four phases. There is an initial pre-bearing phase of about seven years, followed by an early harvesting phase of about one to three years wherein yield is positive and increasing with high variability. Then comes the third phase which can be termed as peak bearing phase and it lasts for about four to 13 years wherein the yield reaches the highest level. In the last phase, there is a decline in yield. Replanting scheme has been proposed by the board and the basic objective of this scheme is to induce the growers to undertake timely replanting such that the shares of old age plants are reduced to minimum level. 3. 4.9. Marketing of rubber The rubber sheets in the store rooms are taken for sale at every Saturday evening. What is peculiar about the rubber sheet is that they assume black, brown or cream and produces a few odours? According to planters have varies cost of production of a sheet of rubber. 3. 4.10 Sale through Retailers Retail dealership in rubber sheet is a highly protectable business. One of the recent trends in the retail rubber business is that the retailers have been procuring latex which is fresh straight from the plantations and sell it to rubber factories which produce rubber tubes and gloves with the introductions of liberal trade policy the local producers of rubber sheets have come to know of the external market, where the demand of rubber sheets has gone up considerably leading to the resurgence of attractive price. Expenses required for cultivation In one acres of land 250-300 rubber trees can be grown. The number of trees may be varied from location to location. In the beginning stage of growth, water is required and cowdung should be used as basic fertilizer. Chemical fertilizer should also be used periodically for cultivation. The expenses required for cultivation of 1 acre of rubber for 1 year. It should be mentioned as below: Table 3.1 Sl. No. 2. Fertilizer i) Expenses required for cultivation Expenses 1. Plant (250 plants) Cow – dung 63 8,000 Rs. Rs. 12,500

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 ii) 3. Pigging 4. Maintaining Total Chemical fertilizer 5,000 13,000 3,000 4,000 32,500 3.5 FERTILIZERS USED FOR CULTIVATION Cow-dung is basic fertilizer for rubber. For 1 acres of land 1,500 kilogram of cowdung should be used. Chemical fertilizer should be mentioned by Nitrogen - Phosphorous Potassium Magnesium Urea - 800 grams 800 grams - 600 grams - 500grams - 400grams 3.6 VARIETY OF RUBBER The various varieties of rubber plants should be mentioned namely: i) T.G.R. ii) P.V. – 86 iii) R.R.I – 600 iv) v) 10S vi) P.V.28/sa 40S 3.7 EXPENSES INCURRED IN PRODUCTION FOR 1KG OF SHEET For producing 1kg of rubber sheet, the expenses should be incurred around Rs.47. It can be spitted in 32 rupees for tapping, 8 rupees for collecting latex, 2 rupees for formic acid 1 rupee for milling and 4rupees for Drying. Maximum amount is spent for tapping of rubber tree. 3.8 IMPORTANCE OF NATURAL RUBBER Natural rubber is the most useful material known to mankind on account of its wide range of application in everyday life. It has been the life – bold of Indian rubber goods manufacturing industry since independence. It is considered as a product not consumable by itself. It has derived demand and it is dependent heavily on the automobile and tyre manufacturing sectors. Cars do not move without rubber. Without an adequate supply of natural rubber, the wheels of the world industry will come to a grinding halt. Natural rubber 64

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 shows all the reactions of an unsaturated polymer. The reaction converts the plastic properties of raw rubber into elastic properties. Natural rubber enjoys excellent environmental image and rubber plantations are unique in many respects. Low intensity agriculture practiced in rubber plantation also helped to sustain long – term productivity of the soil and maintain an economically viable source of income for the planters in rubber growing areas of the country. The diversification of activities in natural rubber farming, harvesting, processing, value addition and trading as well as manufacturing and marketing of rubber products helps to engage large number of people from different walks of life. The rapid growth of industrial demand makes natural rubber economically viable to the cultivators. Rubber plantation is a good example with minimum environmental cost and social harm. There is perhaps no other agricultural systems have employment potential as in natural rubber farming. 3.9 NATURAL RUBBER – MAJOR END –USES • Natural rubber plays a pivotal role in the economic and industrial progress of over nation as it is a crucial and strategic raw material for many of the industrial products like tyres and tubes, foot wears, belts and hoses, battery boxes, layers etc., it is not only an important crop but also a crucial substitution for imports of the country. • Obtain from the latex of heave brasiliensis. • Native of Brazil – introduced to India in 1873. • Gestation period 6-7 years. • Economic life – around 25 years. • Commercial cultivation started in 1902. • Raw material from 35000 products in India. 3.10 PRODUCTION SECTOR Production of Natural Rubber has been increasing steadily over the years. The increase in production of natural rubber in major rubber producing countries has enabled global production quantity to increase. Spurt in manufacturing activities and high demand for automobiles has enhanced the demand for rubber and rubber products globally. Natural rubber therefore could be rightly said as an important agriculture product with significant. Production of Natural Rubber (NR) in India during the year 2015-16 fell 12.9 per cent to 562,000 tonnes from 645,000 tonnes produced a year ago. Adverse weather, high wages, lack of skilled labourers, grower’s reluctance in harvesting or maintaining trees in response to the low NR prices have affected the production of natural rubber (NR) in India during the 65

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 year ended March 2016. Even though the trappable area under natural rubber was 559,000 ha during 2015-16, only 391,000 ha has contributed to the NR production during the year. Consequently, the average yield, measured in terms of production per hectare of tapped area, declined during the year to 1,437 kg/ ha as against 1,443 kg/ha in the previous year. During 2016-17, the country is anticipated to produce 654,000 tonnes of NR up 16 per cent on year. 3.11 WORLD RUBBER SCEANERIO: The U.S.A the West Germany, France, Netherland, Australia, Canada, India, Japan and Brazil are the most important Rubber manufacturing countries in the world. The natural rubber is produced and supplied by Malaysia, Indonesia, Leyland, Vietnam, Cambodia, India, Thailand and Brazil. In 2009 Indonesia stands first with total area of 5290 lakhs hectares in the world and followed by the Thailand, Malaysia, China and India. Export of natural rubber from India for the last 10 years showed a remarkable increase. The creditability of Indian NR in international rubber market is now established in more than 45 countries there include mainly China, Malaysia, USA, Sri Lanka, Australia, EU countries etc. Quality of tapping is good in the estate sectors of India, Vietnam and Cambodia whereas it is only satisfactory in other countries. With regard to the small holdings, quality of tapping is poor in Thailand and Vietnam while in other countries it is only satisfactory. Majority of tappers are females in all countries except in India and Cambodia. In Malaysia 60 percent of the tappers are women. 3.12 GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL DEMAND FOR RUBBER The world NR economy was the immediate outcome of geographical expansion of modern world system. The improvement in the means of transport and communications helped in the evolution of a world market (Marx-1974, 363). In the later part of 19th century western imperialist countries found out the possibilities of trade in NR. Later the uses of NR increased with the scientific discoveries and technological advancement, especially with the popularity of automotive vehicles. The aggressive spatial expansion of colonialists was with the help of automobile industry. Thus after the two global wars of twentieth century NR has evolved as the leading industrial raw material in the world-economy. At first trade in Wild Rubber (hereafter WR) was the interest of merchant capital. Later corporate capital of western world took interest in plantation economy. After the decline of British hegemony and the ascension of US, corporate capital withdrew from the plantation sector. 66

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.2 World level rubber production by various countries from 2001 to 2015 In Metric Tonnes Country 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Total Thailand 2320 2615 2876 2984 2937 3137 3056 3090 3164 3252 3456 3512 3548 4324.0 4473.3 48744 Indonesia 1607 1630 1792 2066 2271 2637 2755 2751 2440 2736 2765 3015 3492 3153.2 3175.4 38286 Malaysia 882 890 986 1169 1126 1284 1200 1072 856 939 1048 925 956 668.1 721.5 14723 India 632 641 708 743 772 853 811 881 820 851 1070 910 778 704.5 575 11750 Vietnam 313 331 364 419 482 555 606 660 724 752 737 919 955 953.7 1017.0 9788 China Others Total Mean Std.dev Correlation 0.95 0.95 0.94 0.94 0.95 0.93 0.93 0.96 0.93 0.98 0.96 0.99 0.99 1.00 478 527 565 573 510 533 590 560 644 665 834 864 1143 840.1 794.0 10120 1020 703 729 792 806 792 783 1022 1054 1204 502 1299 1312 1471.4 1557.8 15047 7252 7337 8020 8746 8904 9791 9801 10036 9702 10399 10412 11444 12184 12115 12314 148457 1036 1048 1145 1249 642 1399 1400 1433 1386 1485 1570 1634 1740 1730.7 1759.1 21208 706 1262 1370 1355 1298 1312 1271 1266 998 1055 1037 1131 1227 1437.3 1492.9 15667 0.98 0.98 Source: NMCE Natural Rubber- 2012-13 Source: Monthly Bulletin of Natural Rubber Trends & Statistics, Published by Association of Natural Rubber Produced Countries. Rubber board bulletin 2015 67

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 From the above table, it is clear that, Thailand occupies first place 48744 tonnes in production of NR sheet in the world level followed by Indonesia at the second place with 38286 tonnes. India has occupied fourth position with 11750 tonnes in NR production. The mean production of NR sheets is higher in the year 2013 than the other study period. India is currently the sixth largest producer of NR in 2015 with a share of 4.7 percent of world production. During 2015, the output in main producing countries viz; Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam increased, whereas production in China and India decreased during 2015. Global SR production during 2015 was 14.46 million tonnes as against 14.179 million tonnes in 2014, registering an increase of 2.0 percent. Further, this table also explain that the Mean, Standard deviation and Correlation, these values are slightly fluctuating during the study period. But the correlation values are shown above 0.5 percent level; there is a highly positive correlation between total world rubber production of main countries and the study period from 2001 to 2015. Year-wise Trends in World Rubber Consumption Global consumption of natural rubber is also witnessing phenomenal increase over the years. Utility of rubber as a raw material for various industrial purposes has augmented the demand for the product. Higher growth of manufacturing sector in developing countries helped the consumption of natural rubber to increase manifold. The following table explains that the World Natural Rubber Consumption from 2001-02 to 2014-15. 68

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.3 World Rubber Consumption from 2001-02 to 2014-15 (‘000 tonnes) Year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 TOTAL Mean Std.dev correlation Natural Rubber 7333 7567 7912 8698 9190 9662 10139 10181 9361 10773 11007 11042 11055 12137 136057 9718.357 1457 0.612 Synthetic Rubber 10253 10737 11206 11700 11735 12420 13073 12508 12117 13976 14831 14895 14902 19984 184337 13167 2487 Total Consumption 17586 18304 19118 20398 20925 22082 23212 22689 21478 24749 25838 25937 13104 32121 307541 21967 4530 0.685 Source: International Rubber Society Group, 2014, Rubber Statistical Bulletin (April – June 2016) of International Rubber Study Group The above table stated that World Rubber Consumption from 2001-02 to 2014-15. In terms of global consumption of rubber, witnessed a growth rate of 3.14 percent. Compared to the year 2000, global demand rose to about 30 percent by 2014-15. Consumption of natural rubber increased from 7333 tonnes in 2001-02 to 12137 tonnes in 2014-15, except in 2009-10. In the case of synthetic rubber also similar trend is visible in terms of increase in consumption over the years. Consumption of synthetic rubber increased from 10253 tonnes in 2001-02 to 19984 tonnes in 201415, except in 2008-09. Increase in the economic development in the emerging economies like China and India had played a significant role for the increase in the consumption of rubber both natural as well as synthetic rubber. This study reveals that, the World Rubber Consumption have the results of variables consumption of NR, and consumption of SR are more than 0.5. The shows results are 0.612 and 0.685 respectively. So it is a highly positive correlation. There is significant relationship between the total consumption of natural rubber in the world and consumption of NR, and consumption of SR. 69 Growth Rate -3.21 4.08 4.45 6.7 2.58 5.53 5.12 -2.25 -5.34 15.23 4.4 0.38 0.8 3.2 47.67 3.2 4.7

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 This table also explain that the Mean and Standard deviation. It is noted from the table that the Mean value for consumption of NR is 9718 tonnes, consumption of SR is 13167 tonnes and total consumption of rubber is 21967 tonnes. But the Standard deviation values forconsumption of NR is 1457 tonnes, consumption of SR is 2487 tonnesand total consumption is 4530 tonnes. Consumption of Natural rubber in main producing countries in the world: China and India are among the major rubber producing as well as consuming countries in the world. China remained the top consumer of natural rubber during the period from 2009 to 2015. High pace of economic development accompanied by large scale infrastructure development and increase demand for automobile enhanced the demand for natural rubber in China and India. The following table explains that, the Consumption of Natural rubber in main producing countries in the world from 2001 to 2015. 70

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.4 Consumption of Natural rubber in main producing countries in the world from 2001 to 2015 (In thousand tonnes) Country India 20012002 20022003 20032004 20042005 20052006 20062007 20072008 851 20082009 881 20092010 China 1395 1538 2000 2266 2743 2812 2940 3460 3384 631 680 717 745 789 815 905 USA 974 1111 1079 1144 1159 1003 1018 1041 687 729 749 784 815 857 874 Japan Malaysia 401 408 421 403 387 383 Indonesia 142 145 156 196 221 355 Thailand 253 278 299 319 335 321 Rep.of Korea World total 332 326 333 352 370 364 887 450 391 374 377 878 469 414 398 358 636 470 352 399 330 20102011 944 926 750 458 421 459 384 20112012 20122013 20132014 20142015 3646 3622 3853 4760 4680 957 1029 950 772 402 441 480 402 988 1015 993 936 691 475 579 600 733 490 488 441 396 932 709 447 539 541 402 387 7333 7554 7952 8718 9200 9677 10144 10173 9325 10778 10963 11005 12137 12167 Mean 607 654 723 780 857 865 Std.dev 419 473 598 678 827 832 911 987 895 861 1034 1024 1094 998 1013 1042 1168 1167 1084 1159 1468 1434 Source: Rubber board 2014. Rubber statistical Bulletin of international Rubber study Group department of applied economics, CUSAT 71

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 It is clearly evident from the table 3.4 that the Consumption of Natural rubber in main producing countries in the world from 2001 t0 2015. Global consumption of natural rubber increased from 9.3 million tonnes in 2009 to 11 million tonnes in 2012. The increase in consumption of natural rubber in India also rests on the same in the calendar year of 2012 china, India and USA consumed 3.8 million, 0.98 million and 0.95 million of natural rubber according to more than 50 percent of the total global consumption of natural rubber. India ranks second with regard to NR consumption in 2015 with a share of 8.2 percent of world consumption. Consumption of NR in China, India and Japan decreased by 1.7, percent 2.1 percent and 2.5 percent respectively during 2015 on year. NR consumption in USA showed a small positive growth of 0.5 percent during 2015 on year. The above table shows that output of the Mean and Standard deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean and standard deviation values are gradually increasing trend. Consumption too has been rising steadily during the study period. The highest mean score of Consumption of Natural rubber in the world for the study period registered is 1168 tonnes in 2014. Type-wise Production of Natural Rubber in India More than 70 percent of the natural rubber in the country is produced in the form of RSS grades. Production of RSS grade rubber in the country increased from 454180 MT in 1999-00 to 642555MT in 2014-15. Solid Block Rubber is another important form of natural rubber produced in the country. The following table explain the Type-wise Production of Natural Rubber in India. 72

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.5 Type-wise production of NR in India (metric tonnes) Latex year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 TOTAL Mean Std.dev Correlation RSS Grades 453465 441875 490070 532155 566445 612735 583825 617125 578650 618960 658200 667225 622540 642555 8085825 577559 72852 0.999 Concentrate (DRC) 62990 76205 81860 78795 90950 86780 88305 88070 85760 76055 76490 73150 68075 67815 1101300 78665 21970 0.21 Solid Block Rubber 65665 81405 87665 84275 92540 98500 100705 110275 120780 117830 119815 122125 106815 107520 2006900 143350 147690 -0.5 Others 49295 49950 52055 54440 52690 54880 52460 49030 46210 49095 49195 51200 46570 45655 702725 50195 13260 -0.17 Source: Rubber Board Statistics, Various Issues, 1999-2014 The above table shows that, the Type-wise Production of Natural Rubber in India, RSS grade rubber constitutes about 75 percent of the total natural rubber production in the country. Type-wise production of NR, include RSS grade, solid block rubber, Latex concentrate (DRC), and other rubbers are highly volatile in nature, but has fluctuated over the year. The share of solid block rubber in the total production increased from 10 percent in 2001-02 to 18 percent in 2014-15. Latex concentrate (DRC) and other forms of natural rubber occupy about 8 percent and 6 percent of the total production of natural rubber in the country in 2014-15. Co-efficient of Correlation employed to examine the, Ho: There is no significant relationship between the total production of natural rubber in the country and grade of rubber sheets, include, RSS grades, Latex concentrate (DRC),solid block rubber and others. H1: There is significant relationship between the total production of natural rubber in the country and grade of rubber sheets, include, RSS grades, Latex concentrate (DRC), solid block rubber and others. This study reveals that all the grades of rubber sheets have the results of variables are less than 0.5 except, RSS grades. The shows results are 0.999, 0.21, -0.5 and -0.17 respectively. But, the 73

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 total production of natural rubber in the country and RSS grades of rubber sheets obtain the value is 0.999. It is a highly positive correlation, then the hypothesis significant. The total production of natural rubber in the country, solid block rubber and others rubber sheets are obtain the result values are -0.5 and -0.17. It is a highly negative correlation, then the hypothesis insignificant. This table also explain that the Mean and Standard deviation. The highest mean score of Type-wise production of NR for the study period registered as RSS grades is 577559 MT. But the Standard deviation values for RSS grades is 72852, Latex concentrate (DRC) is 21970 MT, solid block rubber is 14769 MT and other grade is 13260 MT. Consumption of Rubber – Sector wise – product –wise: Indian economy had to face recurring crises such as poor harvests, industrial recession, investment slowdown resulting from plan holidays and the chronic inflation which had depressing effects on all sectors of the economy. Even in the midst of these difficulties rubber consumption advanced steadily thanks to the spectacular progress of the tyre as well as non-tyre sectors. The growth of tyre-tube-sector1 explains that the Sector wise Consumption of Rubber from 2004-05 to 2014-15. registers an annual growth rate of 14 per cent. The following table 74

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.6 Sector wise Consumption of Rubber from 2004-05 to 2014-15 (Qty. in metric Tonnes) Rubber/sector 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 NATURAL RUBBER Tyre sector 406226 442921 462081 495526 508121 521812 597623 631410 635539 652434 645000 349179 358189 358224 365929 363599 369935 350092 333005 337166 329086 314587 Non-Tyre sector SYNTHETIC RUBBER Tyre sector Non-Tyre sector TOTAL NR+SR Tyre sector Non-Tyre sector RECLAIM RUBBER Tyre sector Non-Tyre sector TOTAL (NR+SR+RR) Tyre sector Non-Tyre sector 75 19908 51997 21978 54557 23714 54721 27391 55774 29191 56839 30424 57439 40511 59779 43178 59257 45879 68716 49559 74166 45678 69547 557401 606479 656604 713904 722406 754206 936548 981953 1004830 1050994 1547432 495559 508661 512966 527871 528294 529236 523287 508247 526630 537826 520955 537493 584501 632890 686513 693215 713799 896037 938775 958951 1001435 1379519 442562 454104 458254 472097 471455 477879 463508 448990 457914 463660 475784 131267 141580 170809 190987 185094 191987 298414 307365 323412 349001 351247 93383 95915 100021 106168 107856 107944 113416 115985 120748 134574 124769

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Source: Rubber Board Statistics, Various Issues, 2008-15

76

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The above table shows that, the Sector wise Consumption of Rubber from 2004-05 to 201415. In case of tyre sector, the total rubber consumptions of NR, SR, and RR, has continuously increased from 557401 MT in 2001-02 to 1547432 MT in 2014-15, during the study period. Whereas , non-tyre sector the total consumptions rubber of NR, SR, and RR, has increased from 495559 MT in 2001-02 to 529236 MT in 2009-10, thereafter, from 523287 MT in 2010-11 to 520955 MT in 2014-15, it has been steadily fluctuating. In the total consumption, overall aggregate elasticity is relative importance to the tyre as well as the non-tyre sectors. The tyre sector was the dominant partner in the early fifties, but gradually the situation is changing in India. 3.13RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA 3.13 (A)Origin of Natural Rubber in India Natural Rubber is nature most versatile vegetable product. This material has multifarious uses and there is hardly any segment of life, which does not make use of rubber based materials. Nature’s this gift is also a vital raw material having immense strategic importance. Natural rubber has a hoary past. 3.13 (B) Early commercial plantations in India In India, seeds of rubber tree were forest introduced at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta by Sir Henry Wickam in 1876. The first commercial plantation of rubber, however was started by European planters who formed the “ Periyar Syndicate” in 1902 at Thattakad near Always in the east while Travancore state for the purpose. In 1904, further developments took place particularly in Central Travancore. In that year, planting of rubber was started in “yendayar”, “Eldorado” and “Mundakayam” estates. The Government of Travancore, Cochin, Madras, and Mysore encouraged rubber cultivation by granting land to the interested growers. By 1910, Mundakayam had become the leading centre of rubber plantation in India, with an area of about 4000 ha. The United Planters Association of South India (UPASI) evinced keen interest in rubber cultivation and carried out research on various aspects which helped in further development of commercial plantation. The “Malayala Manorama” a leading Malayalam news journal also played an important role in encouraging tuber plantations in Kerala. The first local joint stock company to plant rubber was floated in 1910 under the name “Malankara Rubber and Produce co., ltd. About that time, individual local farmers also began to enter the field of rubber cultivation. "Rubber Board has also been providing technical and various other financial aids to the rubber growers in the north eastern region, where 6,000 hectares of land proposed to be brought under the rubber cultivation in the 12th Five Year Plan period (2012-17),” 77

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 India's second Industrial Rubber Park has been set up recently in Bodhungnagar in western Tripura to boost the country's elastic polymer industry. The park, a joint venture between the Tripura Industrial Development Corporation (TIDC) and the Rubber Board, is the second of its kind in the country after the rubber park in Irapuram, Kerala. 3.14INDIAN RUBBER The main rubber growing regions in India also come mostly within the world's rubber belt. In India conditions approximate to these are obtained in Andaman Islands and in Kerala in the hills of Western Ghats. These rubber growing regions are confined to the South Western region of India consisting of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala* The rainfall in these regions is not as well distributed as in the case of the other rubber growing countries such as Indonesia and Shri Lanka. Further, a long spell of dry hot season followed by heavy monsoon is found in the rubber growing regions of India, and to that extent it affects the growth and yield of rubber trees. Rubber plantations in India are concentrated, to a large extent, in Kerala State and, to a smaller extent, in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andaman’s. In the South, it extends from the Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu State to the Coong District of Karnataka State in the North and, in general, lies west of the Western Ghats. The rubber growing area may be divided into three categories:1) The High land region is mostly mountainous and consists of reserve forests and other plantation crops. 2) The middle or lower upland region consists of small hilly areas of varying heights and sizes and the resultant valleys. 3) The lowland region denotes the flat alluvial and sandy tracts along the Arabian Sea coasts. In India, seeds of rubber tree were first introduced at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta by Sir Henry Wickam in 1876. Rubber plantations were first started in Kerala as early as 1905. Besides Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka also have rubber plantations. Rubber tree requires a hot climate and a heavy rainfall. It grows to a great height, developing huge buttresses or prop roots. Our familiar greenhouse plant resembles young wild plant. In India, the peak season for harvesting rubber is from October to January, while the lean period is during monsoon. In this condition, rubber is being cultivated in more than 17 states including Kanyakumari, Kerala, Karnataka, Tripura and Meghalaya. Rubber cultivation in the areas creates reformation and employment opportunities at the social and economic level. In 1978, India was net importer since the production was unable to catch up with the increasing demand. There are 4,500 industries including tyre and tube factories use rubber as raw materials. Now in India nearly 8, 50,000 tonnes per year rubber has been produced. Every year in India, the farmers earn income more than Rs. 8,500 crores through production of rubber. Also rubber based factories such as tyre and tube production including various industries earned thousands crores. 78

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 DOMESTIC SCENARIO Production and Consumption Trend of NR The NR production in the country is not sufficient to meet the growing consumption requirements of the domestic manufacturing industry. To ascertain the significant difference between, production and consumption of NR in India from 2001-02 to 2014-15, paired sample and correlation are administered. The resultant mean and standard deviation are also presented under the table Table 3.7 Year 2001‐02 2002‐03 2003‐04 2004‐05 2005‐06 2006‐07 2007‐08 2008‐09 2009‐10 2010‐11 2011‐12 2012- 13 2013- 14 2014-15 Total Mean Std.Dev Correlation Paired sample 2.4 Production (in tonnes) 631,400 649,435 711,650 749,665 802,625 852,895 825,345 864,500 831,400 861,950 903,700 913,700 844000 645000 11087265 791948 97112 0 .589 2tailed 0 .31 NA Source: NMCE Natural Rubber- 2014-15. From the above table, it is clear that, there is a positive relationship between production and consumption of NR. India’s natural rubber production has been increasing steadily over the past decade. The production grew at the rate of 4.8 per cent in the year 2011‐12 and it decline gradually from the year 2013-14 till the study period. Consumption too has been rising steadily. It grew at the rate of 2.8 per cent in 2014‐15. Consumption grew from 525 thousand tonnes in 1995‐96 to 1021 thousand tonnes in 2014‐15. The above table shows that output of the Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table 3.7 that the mean value for the production of rubber is 791948 tonnes, and consumption of rubber is 855790 tonnes and the standard deviation value are 97112 tonnes and 120512tonnes respectively. 79 Production and Consumption Trend of NR Production Growth rate 0.2% 2.9% 9.6% 5.3% 7.1% 6.3% ‐3.2% 4.7% ‐3.8% 3.7% 4.8% 3.7% -4.5% -3.8% Consumption (in tonnes) 638,210 695,425 719,600 755,405 801,110 820,305 861,455 871,720 930,565 947,715 964,415 972,705 981,520 1020910 11981060 855790 120512 Consumption Growth rate 1.1% 9.0% 3.5% 5.0% 6.1% 2.4% 5.0% 1.2% 6.8% 1.8% 1.8% 2.0% 2.8% 2.8%

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Further, the table explains that correlation value is 0.589, there is a positive correlation between production and consumption of NR in India, and also analysed with paired sample technique, value is 2.396, not significant for two tailed test is 0.31 and there is no relationship between production and consumption of NR in India. 3.15 STATE‐WISE PRODUCTION OF NATURAL RUBBER The rubber growing areas of the country are divided into three zones, viz., (i) Traditional region comprising Kerala state and Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu, (ii) Non-traditional region comprising all states other than Kerala state and Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu and North East region and (iii) North-Eastern region comprising Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh. 3.15.1 Traditional Regions: Rubber cultivation in India has been traditionally confined to hinterlands of southwest coast, mainly in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Kerala and Tamil Nadu together constitute the traditional rubber growing regions in the country. Kerala alone contributes 89 per cent of the total rubber produced in India and an area of 534,228 ha under rubber plantations. Tamil Nadu contributes another 3 per cent of the total natural rubber production. 3.15.2 Non- traditional region: These Konkan Region of are hinterlands of coastal Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Orissa the hinterlands of coastal Andhra Pradesh and north-eastern states, rubber is Andaman and Nicobar Islands etc., where now being grown. The North‐Eastern region contributes up to 5per cent of the total production, while Karnataka contributes 3per cent. An area of 113,685 ha is covered by rubber plantations in the north‐eastern region In recent years among non‐traditional region, Tripura has become one of the most thrust areas for Rubber growing because of its well acceptance worldwide. In fact, Tripura was declared the "Second Rubber Capital of India" by the Rubber Board. India has succeeded in Rubber cultivation due to research and extension works undertaken by the Rubber Board. 3.16 STATE-WISE AREA AND PRODUCTION OF NATURAL RUBBER IN INDIA: The production of rubber is high in the state Kerala; they have produced 770580 tonnes with a per cent share of 75.08. It signifies that the Kerala is dominated in NR production in India due to favourable climate, skilled labours, soil condition, rubber board give advice to growers and marketers from time to time, Government support, Rubber Techno Park, Rubber Research Institute etc., and Kerala has the right to determine the price of the rubber products. 80

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 3.17 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN TAMILNADU Tamil Nadu ranks second in the production of natural rubber in the country and the credit goes to the Kanyakumari district (i.e.) nearly 90 percent of the rubber plantations are located in Kanyakumari district. It is the traditional Rubber growing region in the country. Since the entire plantations in the state is in this district. The district is well endowed by soil and climatic conditions which are best suited for rubber cultivation. Kerala and Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu are the traditional rubber growing regions in the country. Up to 50 per cent rubber plantations were under private enterprise 3.18 RUBBER CULTIVATION IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT Rubber production has been started in India before 110 years, in Kerala and Kanyakumari District. Rubber has been produced near the mountain regions but now a day’s Karnataka, Assam, Meghalaya including 17 states produced rubber. In this Kanyakumari and Kerala produce 90 percent of rubber production. In rubber board region there are 35,000 hectors rubber has been produced. In Kanyakumari nearly 25,000 tonnes rubber has been produced. There are 4,500 industries including tyre and tube factories use rubber as raw materials. Now in India nearly, 850000 tonnes per year rubber has been produced. In Kanyakumari district has geographical position is expected to face problems in marketing and distribution of rubber product. The Tamil Nadu government has not shown much interest in providing support for marketing rubber products produced in Kanyakumari district. In fact, a number of rubbers based industries soon after their establishment get sick even due to difficulties in marketing. The periodic changes in the supply – demand position in respect of industries. Rubber products are most important factor contributing to marketing problems. Another important factor is the seasonal decline in demand due to price hikes of the product necessitated by steep increase in the price of raw materials . Kanyakumari holds a dominant position both in areas of cultivation and distribution of NR in India. Rubber is one of the cash crops in the district. In Tamil Nadu rubber clove is cultivated only in Kanyakumari district. The quality of rubber produced in Kanyakumari is one of the best in the world and the yield per acre is also very high compared to other parts. In Kanyakumari district rubber is grown in about 16400 hectares and the estimated annual production is about 14000 tonnes. In the district rubber plantations are located in the Southern part and widespread along the Western Ghats in the three taluks namely Kalkulam, Vilavancode, and Thovalai. It has given ample employment opportunities and specifically in Keeriparai, Paraliyar, Manolodai, Chittar, Mylar, and Kallar areas. At an area of 4785.7 hectares rubber is planted in Kanyakumari district from 1960 onwards under the various schemes. The plantation and the number of the rubber growing units in Kanyakumari district are growing day by 81

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 day. The total area of Kanyakumari district is 1684 sq. Km i.e 650024 sq. Miles (168356216) ha. out of this, an extent of 48423 ha. was discovered by forests. Most of the forests in the district are in the catchment areas of numerous streams and rivers. The forests ranging from an altitude of 200 to 600 m occur in Keeriparai, Mangolamottai (Lower Kodayar) Maruthaparai beat of Kulasekharam, Ulakkaruvi near Alagiyapandipuram range Kuttiyar region of Petchiparai. Some areas have been cleared in this region for rubber plantation by the Forest Department. In the Thovalai taluk, 1038 hectares of area are under the cultivation of rubber. In Kalkulam taluk there are 2161 rubber units and the total area of rubber cultivation is 5338 hectares. In the Vilvancode taluk there exists 1468 rubber units and they are under rubber cultivation is 4931 hectares. The total number of rubber units in this district is 3668 and the total area under rubber cultivations is 11307 hectares. In Kanyakumari district contributes nearly 95 per cent of national rubber production of Tamil Nadu. The area under rubber cultivation is steadily increasing when compared to other major crops like paddy, banana, and tropica. Area under rubber cultivation has increased from 16132 hectares in 1985-86 to 16985 hectares in 1994-95. The rubber production has also gone up from 11000 tonnes in 1985-86 to 15000 tonnes in 1994-95. In June 1960, the government initiated a scheme in the Keeripparai reserve forest area and brought about 2,000 acres under rubber plantations were under private enterprise. In 1980, Kanyakumari district alone 12,688 hectares were under rubber plantation as against 12,716 hectares in the whole of Tamil Nadu. In 1980-81, 4, 39,566 rubber trees were tapped employing 3,000 persons; annual yield per tree was 5.35 kg. In 1986, the area under rubber plantations further rose to 12,168 hectares in all i.e. government as well as private, employing about 50,000 persons. Rubber plantations were widespread along the Western Ghats in Vilavancode, Kalkulam and ThovalaiTaluks and to be specific in Keeripparai, Manalodai, Chittar, Mylar and Kallar areas. In 1986 the area under Rubber plantations had further raised up to 12168 hectares in government as well as private which constitutes about 97percentage of the total area covered under plantations in the state of Tamil Nadu. In these plantations alone about 50000 people are employed. There are three factories to process the field latex into different grades of natural rubber. These factories are located at Keeriparai, Perunchani and Mylar. The number of persons employed in the Rubber Factory at Keeriparai is 103 and rubber factory at Perunchani is only 42. The total strength of labour force is in Rubber Corporation consisting of tappers, field workers, protective workers, factory workers, and casual workers. Preference is given to Kanis (hills tribes) in the recruitment of workers. Daily wages are paid to the labourers at rates varying according to their grades. Tapping are paid over kilo wages for collection of latex and scrap at the rate of 65 paise per kg and 30, paisa per kg. respectively more than the standard output. 82

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Rubber Board which is under the control of the government of India is having a regional office at Marthandam in Kanyakumari District and a rubber nursery near Kuzhithurai necessary extension and advisory services are rendered through the regional office for the benefit of rubber growers in Kanyakumari District with the object of increasing production and productivity of rubber and on the other hand to uplift their economic condition. The board implemented “Rubber plantation Department scheme” with a view to encourage new planting, replanting during the five year period from 1980-81 to 1984-85. The scheme has provided for the grant of materials, finance and technical assistance from the board and also long term loans from bank under the credit scheme of agricultural refinance and developed corporation to the rubber growers. The rubber plantation industry is operative both in private and government owned plantations. The private estates are owned and managed by individual entrepreneurs. The Government Rubber plantations in the district have been under the control of Tamil Nadu forest department till 30.09.1984. These were converted into a company called Arasu Rubber Corporation Ltd, Nagercoil.registered under the company’s act of 1956 on 10.08.1984. Nearly 1/3 of the total rubber production of the district is now made by this corporation. The rubber board has launched various incentive programmes to bring additional areas In Kanyakumari district factories are running in Nagercoil, Kulaseharam, Karodu, Ponmanai and Thuckalay produces clouse, slippers, balloons, rubber band etc., used rubber as raw mate Rubber is most important cash crops production made by India. The Kanyakumari district rubber grower’s co-operative marketing society in engaged in the marketing of rubber. During the year 1982-83 the society handled rubber to the extent of Rs.47.69 lakhs. The society also undertakes other service functions such as distribution of inputs and requisites like manures, formic acid, aluminium paws, rubber kates, tapping knives, digging forks etc. to its grower members. The best quality latex is produced in Kazhiyal and Kulasekharam rubber plantations in Kanyakumari district. Out of 91807 hectares of total crop area, rubber is cultivated in 19500 hectares. Nearly 24000 tonnes of natural rubber is produced per annum. There are 16 rubber estates with an area of more than 20 hectares 24 rubber estates with an area of 10 to 20 hectares and growing rubber in 6011 hectares and about 30250 small holdings in 13489 hectares.16Arasu Rubber Corporation cultivates rubber in 4280 hectares. There are thirty five Rubber Producers Societies in Kanyakumari district. They give training to the members, conduct seminars, supply planting materials and provide technical advices. The Rubber Board provides loans and subsidies to the growers through this RPS. There are fifteen SelfHelp-Groups engaged in rubber honey production and rubber nurseries. Moreover there are 250 registered rubber dealers in the district. Thus the district has all the factors favouring rubber 83

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 plantation. The value of rubber latex can be enhanced by manufacturing rubber products. In Kanyakumari district there were 126 small scale rubber-based industries registered under the District Industries Centre (DIC) with a capital of Rs.437 lakh. They manufactured rubber products like gloves, rubber balloons, rubber bands, rubber sheets and mats. They provided employment to 1874 people. But most of them have downed their shutters. Total Area, Production and Productivity in (kg) yield/ha The following table shows that the total area, production and Productivity in (kg) yield/ha. To ascertain the significant difference between the total area and yield per hectare, “T” statistics is administered. The resultant mean, standard deviation, correlations are presented in table 3. 8 Table 3.8 Year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Total Mean Std.dev t-test Correlation Total Area, Production and Productivity in(kg)yield/ha Total Area (ha) 566555 569667 575980 584090 597610 615200 635400 661980 686515 711560 737000 757520 844000 816455 9359532 668538 92958 32 0.51 Source : Rubber Growers Guide, 2014 5% level of significance Table 3.8 shows that Total Area, Production and Productivity in (kg) yield/haRubber from 2001-02 to 2014-15. The production of rubber has increased from 631400 tonnes in 2001-02 to 852895 tonnes in 2006-07 and 2007-08 onwards the rubber production and average yield are fluctuating. We understood from the study there is a close relationship between production and average yield. It is clear from table that the average yield of rubber has also increased from 1576 kg in 2001-02 to 1879 kg in 2006-07. From the above table, indicates that there is a positive relationship between area in hectors and production in tonnes since increase in area results increase in production. 84 Production (Tonnes) 631400 649435 711650 749665 802625 852895 825345 864500 831400 861950 903700 913700 844000 645000 11087265 791948 97112 30 Productivity in(kg)yield/ha 1576 1592 1663 1705 1796 1879 1799 1867 1775 1806 1841 1813 1629 1236 23977 1713 170 59

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 It signifies that the total rubber area is increased and automatically it affects the other variables like tapped rubber area, production and average yield/ha also increased. In the year 2013-14 and 2014-15 the rubber area were decline due to the natural calamities (heavy rain) also affect the total production are 844000 and 645000 tonnes respectively. The above table shows that output of the Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for Total Area (ha) the of rubber is 668538, production of rubber is 791948 tonnes, and Average yield/ha (kg) of rubber is 1713and the standard deviation value are92958 ha, 97112 tonnes and 170 ha/kg respectively The significant difference among the variables of NR in India are identified Total Area (ha), Production (Tonnes) and Average yield/ha (kg) as the respective “T” statistics are statistically significant at 5 per cent level. SOCIO ECONOMIC STATUS OF NR GROWERS OR MANUFACTURES IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT, ANALYSIS: DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY AGE Age is one of the decisive factors which decide the nature of rubber growers, distributors, and vendors. Age gives less inducement to the virtues of thrift and hard work and thereby hinders development. The following table explains the different age group of the respondents. Table 3.9 Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Age wise classification Age wise classification 20-30 10 (7.1) 15 (13.6) 5 (10) 30 (10) 30-40 50 (35.7) 20 (18.2) 15 (30) 85 (28.3) 40-50 40 (28.6) 25 (22.7) 10 (20) 75 (24.9) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table3.9 reveals that the respondents who are below 60 years are 255 respondents and above 60 years, are 45 respondents. Majority of the respondents are in the age group between 3040 years. There are 190 respondents belonging to the age group of 20-50 years distributed as 100 from Kalkulamtaluk, 60 from Vilavancodetaluk, and 30 from Thovalaitaluk. There are 110 85 50-60 25 (17.9) 30 (27.3) 10 (20) 65 (21.6) above 60 15 (10.7) 20 (18.2) 10 (20) 45 (14.9) Calculated χ2 Value 35.4 < Table χ2 Value 3.84 at 5 % level. Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 respondents belonging to the age group of above 50 years distributed as 40 from Kalkulamtaluk, 50 from Vilavancodetaluk, and 20 from Thovalaitaluk. Ho: There is no significant relationship between the Age wise classification and three taluks. H1: There is significant relationship between the Age wise classification and three taluks. The calculated value is (35.4) more than the table value is (3.84). Hence, the hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, it is concluded that there is significant relationship between the age wise classification and three taluks. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY SEX Sex includes male and female. It is a determining factor of both employments and unemployment. Family includes more working class people, since their earning capacity is high. The following table explains the sex wise classification in the selected three taluks. Table3.10 Sexwise Classification Male Female Total Sex Kalkulam % Vilavancode % Thovalai % Total % 64 36 90 50 140 100 80 30 110 73 27 100 40 10 50 80 20 100 Calculated χ2 Value 48.6 < Table χ2 Value 3.84 at 5 % level. Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table 3.10 shows that the total respondents are 300 of which male respondents are 70 per cent (210) and female respondents are only 30 per cent (90). Majority of the respondent are male. They are dominating NR cultivation. Among the male respondents are 64 per cent (90) belongs to Kalkulam taluk, 73 per cent (80) respondents are belongs to Vilavancode taluk and 80 per cent (40) belongs to Thovalai taluk. . Among the female respondents are 36 per cent (50) belongs to Kalkulam taluk, 27 per cent (30) respondents are belongs to Vilavancode taluk and 20 per cent (10) belongs to Thovalai taluk. Chi-square test was employed to examine the, Ho: There is no significant relationship between the sex wise classifications in the selected three taluks. H1: There is significant relationship between the sex wise classifications in the selected three taluks. 210 70 90 30 300 100 86

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The calculated value is (48.6) more than the table value is (3.84). Hence, the hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, there is significant relationship between the sex wise classifications in the selected three taluks. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY LITERACY Education is the apprenticeship of life. Education is more powerful tool for shaping and moulding every person’s life. It is basic necessity for social awareness. Education brings out a better society. Lack of education prevents social and economic enrichment. The educational status of the sample respondents are depicted in the following table. Table3.11 Education wise classification Literacy Kalkulam % Vilavancode % Thovalai % Total Upto elementary Higher secondary Graduate Technical Professional Illiterate Total 50 34 30 11 5 10 140 36 24 21 9 3 7 100 45 25 15 5 8 12 110 41 23 13 5 7 11 100 15 13 7 5 3 7 50 30 26 14 10 6 14 100 110 72 52 21 16 29 300 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table 3.11indicates that , the respondents who are the up to elementary level are 110, higher secondary level are 72, graduate are 52, technical level are 21, professional level are 16 and illiterate are 29 in the total sample size. The majority of the respondents have educational level ranging from primary to graduate. In Kalkulam taluk 130 respondents are educated, and 10 are illiterates. Vilavancode taluk 98 respondents are educated, and remaining 12 are illiterates. In Thovalai taluk 43 respondents are educated, and 7 are illiterates. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BYMARITAL STATUS Rubber growers also depend upon marital status. Married women with children enjoy some privileges’ in the family than others. In recent times, there has been a trend towards nuclear families, which means that the young married women are no longer under the direct control of their in-laws. Hence, an attempt is made to classify the sample respondents based on their marital status. The following table explains the marital status of the respondents. 87

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table3.12 Kalkulamtaluk Status Married Unmarried Others Total 35 20 140 Marital status wise classification Vilavancodetaluk 61 24 15 70 25 15 64 23 13 Thovalaithovalai Respondent % Respondent % Respondent % Total 85 30 15 5 100 110 100 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The table 3.12 stated that 62 percent (185) of the respondents are married 25 per cent (75) of the respondents are unmarried and 13 per cent (40) of the respondents are widows and divorce. Majority of the respondents are married, they have more responsibility and influence to do for earnings. Among the Kalkulam taluk, 61 per cent (85) of the respondents are married, 24 per cent (35) of the respondents are unmarried, and 15 per cent (20) of the respondents are others. In Vilavancode taluk 64 per cent (70) of the respondents are married, 23 per cent (25) of the respondents are unmarried, and 13 per cent (15) of the respondents are others. In Thovalai taluk, 60 per cent (30) of the respondents are married, 30 per cent (15) of the respondents are unmarried, and 10 per cent (5) of the respondents are others. Chi-square test was employed to examine the Ho: There is no significant relationship between the marital statuses in the selected three taluks. H1: There is significant relationship between the marital statuses in the selected three taluks. The calculated value is (104) more than the table value is (5.99). Hence, the hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, there is significant relationship between the marital statuses in the selected three taluks. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY CATEGORIES Based on the Natural Rubber cultivation, the cultivators are classified into full time cultivators and part time cultivators. The information regarding categories of rubber cultivators are given below. Table3.13 88 50 60 30 10 Calculated χ2 Value 104 < Table χ2 Value 5.99 at 5 % level. 185 75 40 100 300

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Category Full time Part time Total Kalkulam taluk 90 50 140 Percentage 64 36 100 Categories wise classification Percentage Vilvancode taluk 75 35 110 68 32 100 Thovalai taluk 35 15 50 Percentage Total 70 30 100 200 100 300 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table reflects that 66 per cent (200) respondents are full time cultivators and other 44 per cent (100) comes under the category of part time cultivators. It reveals that Majority of the respondent is full time cultivators and their earnings are depending on NR cultivation. Among the 200 respondents are full time Cultivators. 64 per cent (90) belongs to Kalkulam taluk, 75 per cent (68) respondents are belongs to Vilavancode taluk and 70 per cent (35) belongs to Thovalai taluk. Among the 100 respondents are part time cultivators. 36 per cent (50) belongs to Kalkulam taluk, 32 per cent (35) respondents are belongs to Vilavancode taluk and 30 per cent (15) belongs to Thovalai taluk. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY USING TYPE OF FERTILIZER The continuous application of fertilizers was that it removed the primary nutrients from the soil and wide multi-nutrient deficiencies. Therefore the combined use of non-organic, organic and bio-fertilizers to maintain soil fertility. The fertilizer requirements of rubber, vary considerably during the three important stages of growth, namely nursery, immature and mature stages. The following table explains by the respondents using type of fertilizer. Table 3.14 Taluk KALKULAM VILAVANCODE THOVALAI Total Type of fertilizer Fertilizer Organic 40 (28.6) 30 (27.3) 15 (30) 85 (28.3) Non-organic 30 (21.4) 25 (22.7) 10 (20) 65 (21.6) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Both 70 (50.0) 55 (50) 25 (50) 150 (49.5) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) 89

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.14 shows that 50 per cent (150) of the respondents are using both types of fertilizers, 28 per cent (85) are using organic, and rest of 65 respondents (22) are using non-organic fertilizers for cultivation of rubber. Among the organic fertilizers are used by the respondents which constitute 28.6 per cent, 27 per cent, and 30 per cent belongs to Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk. Among the non-organic fertilizers are used by the respondents which constitute 21per cent, 23 per cent, and 20 per cent belongs to Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk. It signifies that, among the both fertilizers are used by the respondents which constitute 50 per cent for all taluks in this district. DISTRI BUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY THE PREFERENCE FOR NR CULTIVATION There are so many reasons for prefer NR cultivation. The factors include self-interest, climate, land family cultivation, unemployment, easy marketable, attractive price etc., if the absence of NR cultivation, without exist many business like tyre, slippers, cloves, lays, rubber ball, rubber band, condoms’ these product manufacturing will be suffer. The following table explain the preference for NR cultivation. Table 3.15 Preference for NR Cultivation Preferences Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Selfinterest/ climate 10 (7.2) 10 (9) 4 (8) 24 (7.8) Family cultivation/ Land 40 (28.6) 40 (36.3) 15 (30) 95 (31.5) Unemployment 30 (21.4) 30 (27.3) 11 (22) 71 (23.6) Easy marketable 20 (14.3) 20 (18.2) 6 (12) 46 (15.3) Attractive price 40 (28.6) 10 (9.1) 14 (28) 64 (21.3) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table 3.15 reveals that the opinion given by the five categories of NR Growers for the cultivation of rubber. Out of them 32 per cent (95) of growers’ opinion that family cultivation/availability of land. Rubber crop is give employment opportunity to unemployment candidate, according to 23.6 per cent (71) of growers, 21 per cent (64) of growers opinion that attractive price, 15 per cent (46) of growers opinion that easy marketable, and the remaining 8 per cent (24) of the growers opinion that self-interest/climate are the next suggestion. Most of the 90

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 respondent feels that the preference for rubber cultivation is being availability of land and family cultivation. DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE RESPONDENT BY NAME OF INTERCROPPING Rubber is planted at a wide spacing and hence sufficient land and light is available in the interred areas during the initial years for intercropping. Intercrops should be selected based on the land, light availability in the plantation and marketability. The following table explains the most common intercrops are listed Table 3.16 Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Kinds of Intercropping Intercropping Vegetables 30 (21.4) 25 (22.7) 3 (6) 59 (19.6) Fruits 60 (42.9) 55 (50.0) 15 (30) 130 (43.3) Flowers 15 (10.7) 10 (9.1) 25 (50) 50 (16.6) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table exhibits that 43 per cent (130) have fruits, 21 per cent (62) respondents have spinach 19 per cent (59) have vegetables and least 17 percent (50) have flowers as intercrops to rubber trees. It is understood that the Majority of the respondent are preferred intercrops as fruits. Among the Kalkulam taluk, 43 per cent (60) have fruits, 25 per cent (35) respondents have spinach 21 per cent (30) have vegetables and least 11 percent (15) have flowers as intercrops to rubber trees. Among the Vilavancode taluk, 50 per cent (55) have fruits, 23 per cent (25) respondents have spinach, 18 per cent (20) have vegetables and least 9 percent (10) have flowers as intercrops to rubber trees. Among the Thovalai taluk, 50 per cent (25) have fruits, 30 per cent (15) respondents have spinach, 14 per cent (7) have vegetables and least 6 percent (3) have flowers as intercrops to rubber trees. Distribution of sample respondent by Mode of Cultivation Based on the cultivation and marketing of the rubber cultivators are classified into Full time cultivators and Part time cultivators. The information regarding categories of rubber cultivators are given below. Table 3.17 91 Spinach 35 (25.0) 20 (18.1) 7 (14) 62 (20.6) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total (64.3) 75 (68.2) 35 (70) 200 (66.6) Mode of Cultivation Mode Fulltime cultivator 90 Part-time cultivator 50 (35.7) 35 (31.8) 15 (30) 100 (33.4) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table inferred that 66.6 per cent (200) of respondents are full time cultivators and remaining 33.4 per cent (100) are part time cultivators. It signifies that Majority of the respondents are cultivating as on full time basis because of they are educated but unemployment and cannot do or concentrate other. In Kalkulam taluk 64 per cent (90) are cultivating as NR on full time basis, and remaining 36 per cent (50) are as on part time basis. In Vilavancode taluk 68 per cent (75) are cultivating as NR on full time basis, and remaining 32 per cent (35) are as on part time basis. In Thovalai taluk 70 per cent (35) are cultivating as NR on full time basis, and remaining 30 per cent (15) are as on part time basis. Distribution of sample respondent by Quality of Natural Rubber People are always choosing for quality product. Quality is an important aspect to sell a product. Quality product will be preferred by all sectors of people. Here, quality of the product could be classified into three cases, like Very well, Normal, below normal. The information regarding quality of rubber based on the sample respondents are given in the following table. Table 3.18 Taluk KALKULAM VILAVANCODE THOVALAI Total Quality of Natural Rubber Quality of Natural Rubber Normal 40 (28.6) 35 (31.8) 40 (80) 115 (38.2) Source: Computed from Primary data 92 Very well Below normal 80 20 (57.1) 60 (54.5) 7 (14) 147 (38.9) (14.3) 15 (13.6) 3 (6) 38 (12.6) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table3.18shows that the 38.9 per cent (147) are feels that quality of rubber is very well, 38.2 per cent (115) are feels that the quality of rubber is Normal, and rest are 38 (12.6) per cent feels that quality of rubber is below normal. It is signifies that the Majority of the respondent feels that the quality of rubber produced in Kanyakumari district is one of the best quality in the world and the yield per acre is also very well compared to the other parts of India. Among the Kalkulam taluk, 57 per cent (80) are feels that the NR is very well, 28.6 per cent (40) are feels that normal and rest of the respondents 20 (14.3) per cent feels as below normal. Among the Vilavancode taluk, 54.5 per cent (60) are feels that the NR is very well, 31.8 per cent (35) are feels that normal and rest of the respondents 15 (13.6) per cent feels as below normal. Among the Thovalai taluk, 80 per cent (40) are feels that the NR is very well, 14 per cent (7) are feels that normal and rest of the respondents 6 (3) per cent feels as below normal. Distribution of sample respondent by Methods of Drying Drying of the crumbs, pellets or granules produced in all the new processes is carried out at about 100 c. Drying time depends upon the size of particles. Usually 4 to 8 hours are required for complete drying. The tunnel drier commonly used consists of a movable tray fitted under a stationary hood which contains an air circulating duct fan and heat exchanger. The following table explain methods of drying of rubber sheets. Table 3.19 Methods of drying rubber sheets Methods Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Sun drying 37 (26.4) 30 (27.3) 10 (20) 77 (25.6) Partial sun drying 28 (20.0) 18 (16.4) 7 (14) 53 (17.6) Kitchen drying 10 (7.1) 8 (7.3) 12 (24) 30 (10) Smoke house 65 (46.4) 54 (49) 21 (42) 140 (46.5) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table3.19 shows that 46.5 per cent (140) are used smoke house, 26 per cent (77) are used sun drying, and 18 per cent (53) are used partial sun drying and least, 10 per cent (30) are used kitchen drying for rubber sheets. Minimum number of respondent are using kitchen drying for rubber sheets, because of they are having less than 2 acres of land for cultivation of rubber. 93

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Among the Kalkulam taluk, 46 per cent (65) are using smoke house, 26 per cent (37) are used sun drying, 20 per cent (28) are used partial sun drying and least, 7 per cent (10) are used kitchen drying for rubber sheets. Among the Vilavancode taluk, 48 per cent (54) are using smoke house, 27 per cent (30) are using sun drying, 16 per cent (18) are using partial sun drying and least, 7 per cent (8) are used kitchen drying for rubber sheets. Among the Thovalai taluk, 42 per cent (21) are using smoke house, 20 per cent (10) are used sun drying, 14 per cent (7) are used partial sun drying and 24 per cent (12) are used kitchen drying for rubber sheets. Distribution of sample respondent for tapping the Rubber Trees Latex is obtained from the bark of the tree by tapping. Tapping is a process of controlled wounding during which thin savings of bark are removed. The aim of tapping is to cut open the latex vessels of rubber trees tapped for the first time or remove the coagulum. The following table explains the tapping of rubber trees. Table 3.20 Tapping by the Rubber Trees Tapping Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Yourself 10 (7.1) 10 (9.1) 10 (20) 30 (9.9) Tappers 75 (53.6) 55 (50) 15 (30) 145 (48.2) Family members 25 (17.9) 20 (18.2) 14 (28) 59 (19.6) All 30 (21.4) 25 (22.7) 11 (22) 66 (21.9) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table examine that the 48 per cent (145) are tapping the trees by tappers, 22 per cent (66) are tapping trees by all, 20 per cent (59) are tapping the trees by their family members and 10 per cent are tapping the trees by him/her. Among the Kalkulam taluk 53.6 per cent (75) are tapping the trees by tappers, 21.4 per cent (30) are tapping the trees by all, 17.9 per cent (25) are tapping the trees by their family members and 7.1 per cent (10) are tapping the trees by him/her. Among the Vilavancode taluk 50 per cent (55) are tapping the trees by tappers, 22.7 per cent (25) are tapping the trees by all, 18.2 per cent (20) are tapping the trees by their family members and 9.1 per cent (10) are tapping the trees by him/her. Among the Thovalai taluk 30 per cent (15) are tapping the trees by tappers, 28 per cent (14) are tapping the trees by all, 22 per cent 94

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 (11) are tapping the trees by their family members and 20 per cent (10) are tapping the trees by him/her. Distribution of sample respondents by using Type of Vessels The latex (milky rubber) that flows out is channelled into an attached container. Coconut shells and polythene cups or both used as vessels most Indian NR cultivators. Latex collected in the cups is transferred to clean bucket two/three hours after taping. The following table explains type of vessels used for collection of latex by cultivators. Table 3.21 Type of Vessels Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Coconut 30 (21.4) 30 (27.3) 15 (30) 75 (24.9) Vessels Plastic cup 40 (28.6) 55 (50) 30 (60) 125 (41.6) both 70 (50.0) 25 (22.7) 5 (10) 100 (33.3) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table exhibits that the 41.6 per cent (125) are using plastic cup, 33.3 per cent (100) are using both the cups and 24.9 per cent (75) are using coconut shell for collection of latex from the rubber trees. It could be understood that majority of the respondents are using plastic cups, which are easily available in the market and has long usage. Among Kalkulam taluk, 21.4 per cent (30) are using coconut shell, 28.6 per cent (40) are using plastic cup and remaining 50 per cent (70) are using both the cups. Among Vilavancode taluk, 27.3 per cent (30) are using coconut shell, 50 per cent (55) are using plastic cup and remaining 22.7 per cent (25) are using both the cups. Among Thovalai taluk, 30 per cent (15) are using coconut shell, 60 per cent (30) are using plastic cup and remaining 10 per cent (5) are using both the cups. Distribution of sample respondent for the factors affecting production Rubber cultivation in India has been traditionally confined to narrow belt extending from Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, in the south to Dakshin Kannada and Kodagu district of Karnataka and lying in general west of the Western Ghats. The climatic conditions in the rubber tract vary from region to region and from year toyear depends on rainfall. There are so many factors 95

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 affecting production of NR. The factors are classified into five like Maintenance cost, Rain/Strom, Lack of labour, tapping, and Lack of finance. The following table shows that the factors affecting production of rubber. Table 3.22 Factors Affecting Production Factors Affecting Production Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Maintenance cost 29 (21) 25 (23) 11 (22) 65 (21) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table exhibits that 25 per cent (75) of the respondents feels that tapping, 24 per cent (71) of the respondents are feels that lack of labour, 21 per cent (65) are feels that maintenance cost, 17 per cent (53) are feels that lack of finance, and 12 per cent (36) are feels that rain/storm. It signifies that, majority of the respondents are feels that lack of availability of skilled labour and tappers. These factors might be affecting the production of rubber. Hence, in modern day’s new technology adopted for tapping and planting rubber trees. So the awareness and training should be given to them. Co-efficient of regression, for Age and sources of production In order to find out the factors that determine the age of NR growers, and the selected nine variables have been regressed on sources of production of NR by the growers’ index. The following regression equation has been framed to ascertain the impact of the variables on awareness. Co-efficient of regression, for Age and sources of production G I = where, GI a a + b1 VC+ b2 TFU+ b3 OP+ b4 OM+ b5 NOI+ b6 MOC+ b7 QOR+ b8 TOVU + b9 MOD = Growers Index = Intercept term VC = Varieties of cultivation TFU = Types of Fertilizers Used OP = Own Plantation 96 Rain/ storm 17 (12.1) 12 (10.9) 7 (14) 36 (12) Lack of labour 24 (17.2) 35 (31.8) 12 (24) 71 (24) Tapping 43 (30.7) 20 (18.1) 12 (24) 75 (25) lack of finance 27 (19.3) 18 (16.4) 8 (16) 53 (17) Total 140 (100) 110 (100) 50 (100) 300 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 OM = Own Machine NOI = Name of Intercropping MOC = Mode of Cultivation QOR = Quality of Rubber TOVU = Types of Vessels Used MOD = Methods of Drying The results of the regression analysis are shown in Table 3.23 of the nine variables taken for consideration two variables namely, varieties of cultivation and own machine in Kalkulam taluk, for consideration one variable is types of fertilizer used in Vilavancode taluk and for consideration two variables types of vessels used and methods of drying in Thovalai taluk with Others are not found to be significant. The other variables that influence the sources of the production of NR are discussed in the following paragraphs. Table 3.23 Age and Sources of production Sources of production varieties cultivation Type of fertilizers used Name of Intercropping Mode of Cultivation Quality of Rubber Type of vessels used Methods of drying ANOVAs Kalkulam taluk t-value .997 2.032 Own Plantation -2.381 Own Machine .841 4.502 -3.690 -1.318 -3.217 2.451 152.757 P value .321 .044 .019 .402 .000 .000 .190 .002 .016 .000 Vilavancode taluk t-value -1.356 .352 4.229 3.191 -1.484 2.460 2.446 -2.208 2.068 222.164 P value .178 .726 .000 .002 .141 .018 .018 .030 .009 .000 t-value 2.978 1.663 2.429 -1.741 2.938 3.610 -1.778 .355 .257 98.897 Thovalai taluk P value .005 .104 .020 .089 .005 .000 .083 .724 .798 .000 Source: primary data 5% level of significance The table 3.23 reveals that, the ANOVA value is found to be significant at five per cent level. This shows that the regression equation framed is a good fit. The ANOVA value of Kalkulam taluk indicates that around 152.757, Vilavancode taluk indicates that the value is 222.164 and Thovalai taluk indicates that the value is 98.897 of the variations in sources of the NR production due to the selected variables. 97

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 3.24 Education and Sources of NR production by growers in Kanyakumari Kalkulam taluk Sources ChiVarieties of NR Type of fertilizers Own plant ation Own machine Name of intercropping Quality of rubber Types of vessels used Methods of drying Tapping of the rubber trees square 4.227 1.598 1.194 1.400 3.507 2.141 1.367 2.717 2.518 Source: Primary data Kendall's tau-b .912 .807 .647 .419 .860 .803 .777 .848 .835 Spearman Correlation .957 .883 .714 .463 .902 .855 .862 .915 .892 Chisquar e 3.371 1.100 1.100 42.778 2.400 1.643 1.633 1.753 1.989 Kendall's tau-b .901 .745 .633 .319 .812 .794 .807 .819 .834 Vilavancode taluk Spearman Correlation .944 .860 .698 .352 .858 .846 .861 .902 .890 Chisquar e Kendall's tau-b 1.435 .906 1.321 .861 50.000 15.27 .614 .320 79.39 .793 57.143 81.111 43.421 .613 .814 .674 1.001 .881 Thovalai taluk Spearman Correlation .952 .921 .685 .287 .874 .685 .884 .751 .933 98

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 This study reveals that all sources include, Varieties of NR cultivation, Type of fertilizers used, Own plantation, Own machine, Name of intercropping, Quality of rubber, Types of vessels used, Methods of drying, and Tapping the number of rubber trees have results are more than 0.5 level, it is a highly positive correlation, except own machine, shows Kendall’s tau-b results among three taluks are 0.419, 0.319, and 0.32 respectively. Whereas, Spearman Correlation results among three taluks are 0.463, 0.352, and 0.287 respectively, hence it is considered as a low positive correlation. Factors of NR Growers in Kanyakumari District The following table explains that the factors of NR growers in Kanyakumari district based on selected three taluks. The factors include Types of fertilizers used, own machine, own plantation, Varieties of intercropping, Mode of cultivation, types of vessels used, Methods of drying, Tapping of rubber trees, Preference of rubber cultivation, Quality of rubber, and smoking. Table 3.25 - Factors of NR Growers (Kendall’s co-efficient of Correlation) Kalkulam Factors Types of fertilizers used Own machine Own plantation Varieties of intercropping Mode of cultivation Types of vessels used Methods of drying Tapping of rubber trees Preference of rubber cultivation Quality of rubber Smoking .825 .395 .625 .908 .727 .847 .827 .860 .788 .912 .912 Vilavancode .765 .316. .609 .856 .710 .863 .898 .833 .572 .605 .509 Thovalai .829 .273 .578 .849 .746 .749 .643 .899 .921 .574 .675 Source: primary data 5% level of significance All the factors have more than 0.5 except own machine, shows results are .395, .316 and .273 respectively, so it has a highly positive correlation. 3.19 NATURAL RUBBER PRODUCTION Kanyakumari district is selected as the study area. The rubber is a vital product in the life of every human being in the contemporary era. It supports the life of the mass through its diverse benefits this material has multifarious uses and there are hardly any segments of society, which do not use rubber and rubber based products. In our daily life, we are always involved with products made of rubber. Production of NR in India at present is below the domestic demand, forcing the country to import NR from other rubber producing countries. An overall performance of small growers are analysed to understand their economy development in Kanyakumari 99

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 100

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER -IV SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF NATURAL RUBBER TAPPERS IN KANIYAKUMARI DISTRICT 4.1 INTRODUCTION Rubber tappers in Kanyakumari district face a number of problems every day. Most of the rubber tappers work on small holdings (unorganized sector) with less than 2.5 acres. It is found that most of the rubber tappers interviewed live in miserable conditions. Only a few tappers have preferred to tap trees in the rubber estates. Because of they get salary on the basis of monthly. Rubber cultivation and production are not easy and simple vocation. It needs large and professional labour force during its whole lifetime existence. Tapping of rubber trees is not only a skilled job but also a highly labour intensive. Decline in the natural rubber economy causes decline or stagnation in wage rate and reduction in the number of working days. The wage rate too is very low. The Indian penal code has stated that those who are working in industry or organisation from 10 p.m to 6a.m. get double remunerations. As per the survey, the time of tapping generally adopted 6.00 a.m to 7.30 a.m before that, they wake up in their bed. They can’t follow a proper time schedule and it is based on the availability of milky rubber. But here, tappers are tapping the trees starting from 6 a.m. There is the absence of bargaining power and trade union activities. At present, there is no serious scarcity of tappers, though there is scarcity of skilled persons. The trend shows that the younger generations are not interested in tapping, due to low wage rate system which may lead to further decline in rubber economy. Another serious problem is the shortage of skilled tappers. Most of them belong to the age limit of above 40. And majority of them are illiterate. They are not preferred to introduce new methods of tapping. 4.2 TAPPERS Tappers are those who extract rubber from the trees, while the field workers tend to the crop and provide for maintenance in the plantations. Tappers will have to be recruited when the rubber trees become fit for tapping. Generally experienced tappers are highly preferred by the plantation owners. Tapping required ‘the cutting of a very thin slice of the bark of the tree’ for collecting latex that oozes out along the edge of the cut in a cup. Tapping is not only collecting but also carrying the latex and scrap to the weighing spots. 4.3 TAPPING Latex is obtained from the bark of the rubber tree by tapping. Tapping is a process of controlled wounding during which thin shavings of bark are removed. The aim of tapping is to cut 101

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 open the latex vessels in the case of trees tapped for the first time or to remove the coagulum which blocks the cut end of the latex vessels in the case of trees under regular tapping. A sharp knife is used to cut the bark to produce several downward spirally running cuts. The tapping is done usually in the morning. The Latex that oozes out of the cuts is collected in cups placed below. Each morning fresh cuts are made to collect the latex. The bark is cut in such a manner that the delicate growth layer of cambium is not damaged. Since the latex vessels run spirally to the right at an angle of 30 of vertical plane, tapping cut is made from the upper left to the lower. First a vertical cut is made in the bark in the lower portion of the tree. Sometimes a ‘V’ cut is made. The latex which flows for several hours in the forenoon is collected in a cup. The flow of latex stops by midday and therefore, cut surfaces have to be renewed each morning for several months. Generally, tapping is a process of controlled wounding during which the shaving of bark is done. Skilled tapping is necessary for the good health of the tree and for maintaining the longevity of its production period. Similarly, response to tapping system varies from clone to clone. The Rubber Board has recommended half spiral third daily tapping for reducing the panel disease. Naturally, this system of tapping tends to reduce the number of tapping days by 30 to 35 days. Selftapping is not popular in Kanyakumari. Even Small growers of rubber area below half a hectare hire labourers for tapping. Though women tappers seemed to be efficient in tapping, the share of women in the total number of tappers is very low. 4.4 IMPORTANCE OF TAPPING Tapping laborers in rubber estates are highly organized due to the activities of trade unions. There are specified rules and regulations like Plantation Labour Act regarding wage structure, terms and conditions of work, welfare measures etc. Even though more than 10 folds of tapper in the rubber estate are working in the smallholdings; there is the absence of well-defined wage rate or working conditions. Moreover, the problems of rubber tapper in the smallholdings have not been seriously taken into consideration even by the institution connected with rubber. According to the nature of trees, there are different types of tapping system, such as daily tapping system, intensive tapping, high level tapping, and controlled upward tapping, Male tappers dominate the field of tapping. Female tappers are interested more in estate tapping because there is no gender discrimination regarding wages and allowances. . On an average a tapper tapped around 250 trees per day. Most of the respondents (tappers) are working on one holding, a few respondents are tapping trees in two or three holdings and only 10 per cent of the tappers are tapping trees in their own land. 102

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Only 45per cent of tappers use head light for tapping. This facility is enjoyed by those who tap trees in estate holdings. The average time taken for tapping and allied works by a tapper is estimated separately. An average time of 3.25 hours is taken for tapping; 1.75 hours is taken for collection of latex and 0.50 hours is taken for rolling. Almost in all cases the drying and smoking of sheets are done by the owner of the land himself. Rubber plantations had its beginning in India during the first decade of the last century. Rubber is one of the important cash crops in the district. Kanyakumari accounts for 95 per cent of area under rubber in Tamil Nadu. In this district rubber plantations are located in the northern part of the three taluks namely Kalkulam, Vilavancode and Thovalai. It has given ample employment opportunity. 150 sample respondents (Tappers) were chosen from Kanyakumari district which include 70 tappers from Kalkulam taluk, 50 tappers from Vilavancode and the remaining 30 tappers from Thovalai taluk for the study. A good tapper can tap a tree every 20 seconds on a standard halfspiral system and a common daily, ‘task’ size is between 450 and 650 trees. Trees are usually tapped on alternate days although there are many variations in timing, length and number of cuts. The trees will drip latex for about four hours. When the flow is stopped latex coagulates naturally on the tapping cut thus blocking the latex tubes in the bark. Tappers usually rest and have a meal after finishing their tapping work. Then they start collecting the latex at about midday. Some trees will continue to drip after the collection and this leads to a small amount of cup lump which is collected at the next tapping. The latex that coagulates on the cut is also collected as tree lace. Tree lace and cup lump together account for 10-20 per cent of the day rubber produced. Latex is generally processed into either latex concentrate for manufacture of dipped goods or it can be coagulated under controlled, clean conditions using formic acid. The coagulated latex can then be processed into the higher grade technically specified block rubbers such as TSR 3L or TSRCV or used to produce ribbed smoke sheet grades. Naturally coagulated rubber is used in the manufacture of TSR 10 and TSR 20 grade rubbers. 4.5 OPERATIONAL TERMS IN TAPPING 4 .5 (A) Bark An inner layer of soft bast, an intermediate layer of hard bast, and an outer protective layer of cork cells can be distinguished in the bark of the rubber tree. Latex vessels are concentrated in the soft bast, arranged in a series of concentric rings of interconnecting vessels. The number, dimension and the distribution of latex vessels and the proportion of hard bark show much variation from tree to tree in seedling population. 4 .5 (B) Marking, slope and direction of tapping cut The tapping cut of budded trees should have a slope of about 30˚ to the horizontal. For seedling trees, the cut need to have a slope of only about 25˚, since the bark is fairly thick. A very 103

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 steep cut leads to the wastage of bark when tapping reaches the base of the tree and too flat a cut leads to overflow of latex. The latex vessels in the bark run at an angle of 3-5˚ to the right and therefore an opposite cut from high left to low right will open more latex vessels. To avoid spillage, an inward slope towards wood also has to be maintained on the tapping cut. 4 .5 (C) Standard of tapping and height of opening In India, the best period to open new areas for tapping is March-April. The trees left behind during the season due to want of sufficient girth may be opened in September. In the immature phase annual growth rate is around 7cm, whereas it will be 2cm or less under tapping. Hence, trees of lower growth than recommended should not be opened for tapping. 4 .5 (D) Tapping depths, bark consumption and bark renewal The best yield is obtained by tapping to a depth of less than one millimetre close to cambium since more latex vessels are concentrated near the cambium. Shallow tapping results in considerable loss of crop. To obtain optimum yield, care should be taken not to injure the cambium at the time of tapping. 4 .5 (E) Time of tapping, task and utensils It is necessary to commence tapping early in the morning as late tapping reduces the exudation of latex. The tapping task (number of trees tapped on a day by one tapper) in India is around 300-400 trees compared to 400-500 trees in other countries. Headlights can be used for early morning tapping during non-rainy season including summer months to extract better crop. Competing tapping with its latex flow in the early hours (02.00 to 6.00 hrs) favours better production during summer and in wind prone areas. 4 .5 (F) Tapping systems There is a response to different tapping systems varies from clone to clone. Since majority of rubber area is with high yielding clones, in general, rubber trees are to be tapped on half spiral third daily (S/2 d3) system. 1. Low frequency tapping (LFT) Trees under low frequency tapping (d3, d4, d6 or d7) have to be stimulated from opening for maximum sustainable yield. Numbers of stimulation vary with clone, age of the tree, tapping system and frequency. In high yielding clones like RRII 105 and PB 217 under third daily (d3) tapping frequency with weekly one day regular off, yield increase can be achieved by three annual stimulations (April and May, September and November. Low frequency tapping (LFT) with stimulation can be practised from the first year of tapping. 2. Controlled upward tapping (CUT) 104

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Controlled upward tapping (CUT) can be practised from renewed panel stage onwards for longer duration of crop harvesting from the virgin bark above the basal panel. Controlled upward tapping can be adopted under the following situations: i) Low yield from the renewed bark. ii) Renewed bark is unsuitable for tapping because of outgrowths, diseases, panel dryness and the like. 3. Intensive tapping Intensive tapping is generally done on old rubber trees for a few years prior to felling. The method depends on condition of trees, previous tapping systems, availability of bark and the period available for harvesting before felling. When tapping of renewed bark on basal panels becomes uneconomic, new cuts are opened at higher levels, 180 cm from bud union or even higher. 4 .5 (G) Rain guarding During rainy season tapping can be carried out by fixing a rain guard just above the tapping cut. Thus by preventing loss of tapping days due to rain, regular tapping can be ensured by rain guarding under any given tapping frequency. Chances of bark are high when the trees are rain guarded and tapping is continued during rainy season. 4 .5 (H) Tapping rest In South India, rubber trees shed leaves from December to February and defoliate soon alongwith the production of flowers. During defoliation and flowering, the yield of rubber will be comparatively poor. 4 .5 (I) Rubber Tappers Bank (RTB) Scarcity of skilled tappers is currently the major handicap the rubber plantation industry has to address. The number of trained tappers in the job is coming down steadily and significantly. To make the tapping job attractive and to enhance the dignity of the work a scheme for formation of rubber tappers bank as an SHG of skilled tappers under the umbrella of RPS is launched. Job assurance, reasonable wage pattern, life insurance coverage, attractive savings (in PPF) and terminal benefit packages are offered to member tappers. The scheme is envisaged to ensure the availability of sufficiently skilled and motivated tappers essential for the sustainability of the rubber plantation industry. 4 .5 (J) Latex Hevea latex in the latex vessels of tapped trees contains 30-45 per cent rubber in the form of particles. Latex is a hydrosol in which the dispersed particles are protected by a complex film. It contains more than one disperse phase. 4 .5 (K) Latex flow 105

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 When a rubber tree is tapped and the vessel is cut the pressure at the location of the cut is released and viscous latex exudes. This exudation of latex results in the displacement of latex along the length of the latex vessel and laterally owing to strong forces of cohesion existing in the yield 106

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 4 .5 (L) Properties of Rubber Natural rubber is soft and translucent at 200 c, when chilled to 0-100c it becomes hard and opaque at the temperature of liquid air. It is brittle and transparent like glass. At temperatures exceeding 250c, rubber loses elasticity and becomes sticky. Rubber melts to a viscous fluid at about 2000 c. rubber is insoluble in water and is unaffected by alkalise or moderately strong acids. It is soluble in benzene, naphtha, carbon disulphide either chloroform or chlorinated hydrocarbon. Rubber is one of the best insulating and dielectric materials available. 4 .5 (M) Processing of the Crop The main crop from the rubber tree is latex, a milky white dispersion of rubber in water, which is harvested by the process of tapping. Coconut shells and polythene cups are used as containers in most of the Indian estates. Latex collected in the cups is transferred to clean buckets, two /three hours after tapping. Around 80 percent of the crop from plantation is in the form of latex. Latex is coagulated in suitable containers into thin slabs of coagulum and sheeted through a set of smooth rollers followed by a grooved set, and dried to obtain sheet rubber. Depending upon the drying method, sheet rubbers are classified into two: Ribbed smoked sheets and Air dried sheets. 4 .5 (N) Smoking The sheets, after four to six hours of dripping in shade, are put in the smoke house where the temperature is maintained between 400c and 600c. In the smoke house, sheets are dried gradually whereby blisters are avoided. It is preferable to smoke the sheets on the first day at a low temperature. For the subsequent days the sheets are to be dried at a higher temperature and fairly low relative humidity. Four days of smoking is generally sufficient under normal conditions but during the rainy season five to six days are required for a satisfactory drying. 4 .5 (O) Drying of rubber sheets Drying of the crumbs, pellets or granules produced in all the new processes is carried out at about 100 c. Drying time depends upon the size of the particles. Usually 4 to 8 hours are required for complete drying. The tunnel drier commonly used consists of a movable tray fitted under a stationary hood which contains an air circulating duct fan and heat exchanger. 4 .5 (P) Grading The completely dried sheets are shifted to the packing shed where they are carefully inspected and graded according to the standards as per IS-15361-2003. This standard provides for six grades of rubber smoked sheets, viz RSS IX, RSS 1, RSS 2, RSS 3, RSS 4 and RSS 5. 4 .5 (Q) Packing The sheets after grading are packed in bales of 50kg. In the international market a bale weight is usually III-II kg. The grades are marked on the bales and marketed by BIS. 107

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 4.6 EVOLUTION OF TAPPING The method of crop extraction was very crude in earlier days. The Brazilians used to make multiple cuts on the tree trunk and the branches and sometimes cut down the whole tree to extract latex from the bark. This process resulted in heavy damage to the healthy trees and affected sustained crop extraction. In 1890, Henry Nicholas Ridley, Director of the Singapore Botanical Gardens, devised the basic methods of current-day tapping which involves shaving out with sharp knife thin slices of the bark to cut open the closed ends of latex vessels and letting the latex flow out. He had a group of research workers in the Singapore Botanical Gardens and prescribed optimum planting density, cover crop establishment, fertiliser application, disease control and processing of latex. 4.7 EXPORT OF RUBBER PRODUCTS Various export promotion schemes have been introduced by the Government of India from time to time to enhance export from India. The Rubber Board plays an important role in enhancing export of natural rubber (NR) by implementing various export promotion measures. The schemes are designed to provide financial as well as technical assistance to exporters. It includes the compensation of the expenses incurred on quality improvement, packing, internal transport and terminal handling. This has helped the exporters to make an entry in the international market. India’s trade depends considerably on the import and export of rubber related products. Manufactured goods remained the main item in imports of rubber products, while tyre and tube products accumulated a major share in export from India. Total Area, Tapped Area, Production and Average Yield per Hectare of Rubber The following table shows that the total area, tapped area, production and average yield per hectare of rubber. To ascertain the significant difference between the total area and yield per hectare, “T” statistics is administered. The resultant mean score, mean differences, standard deviation are presented in table 4. 1 Table 4. 1 Total Area, Tapped Area, Production and Average Yield per Hectare of Rubber Year Total Area (ha) 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 566555 569667 575980 584090 597610 615200 635400 661980 Tapped Area (ha) 400713 407953 427935 439720 447015 454020 458830 463130 108 Production (Tonnes) 631400 649435 711650 749665 802625 852895 825345 864500 Average yield/ha (kg) 1576 1592 1663 1705 1796 1879 1799 1867

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Total Mean Std.dev Correlation t-test 686515 711560 737000 757520 844000 816455 9359532 668538 92958 0.96 31.690 46.129 29.930 Source : Rubber Growers Guide, 2014, 5% level of significance Table 4.1 shows that Total Area, Tapped Area, Production and Average Yield per Hectare of Rubber from 2001-02 to 2014-15. The tapped area of rubber has gradually increased from 400713 hectares in 2001-02 to 521653 hectares in the year 20014-15. It further shows that the production of rubber has increased from 631400 tonnes in 2001-02 to 852895 tonnes in 2006-07 and 2007-08 onwards the rubber production and average yield are fluctuating. We understood from the study there is a close relationship between production and average yield. It is clear from table that the average yield of rubber has also increased from 1576 kg in 2001-02 to 1879kg in 2006-07. From the above table, it is clear that there is a positive relationship between area in hectors and production in tonnes, since increase in area results increase in production. It signifies that the total rubber area is increased and automatically it affects the other variables like tapped rubber area, production and average yield/ha also increased. In the year 2013-14 onwards the tapped rubber area were decline due to the natural calamities (heavy rain) also affect the total production is 844000 tonnes in 2013-14 and 645000 tonnes in 2014-15 respectively. The highest positive correlation between total area and tapped area for the study period is registered 0.96. So it is a significant one. The above table shows that output of the Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for Total Area (ha) the of rubber is 668538, Tapped Area (ha) of rubber is 462834, production of rubber is 791947 tonnes, and Average yield/ha (kg) of rubber is 1712 and the standard deviation value are92958 ha, 37414 ha, 97112 tonnes and 170 ha/kg respectively. The significant difference among the variables of NR in India are identified Total Area (ha), Tapped Area (ha), Production (Tonnes) and Average yield/ha (kg) as the respective “T” statistics are statistically significant at 5 per cent level of significance. SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF TAPPING (PRIMARY DATA) Distribution of sample respondents by Mode of tapping 468480 477230 491000 504000 518000 521653 6479679 462834 37414 831400 861950 903700 913700 844000 645000 11087265 791947 97112 0.51 58.7 1775 1806 1841 1813 1629 1236 23977 1713 170 109

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Based on the tapping of the rubber trees by the tappers, are classified into three cases, like Full time tappers, Part time tappers and both. The distribution regarding the categories of rubber cultivators is given below. Table 4. 2 Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Mode of tapping Mode Fulltime 45 (64.3) 35 (68.2) 20 (70) 100 (66.6) Part-time 25 (35.7) 15 (31.8) 10 (30) 50 (33.4) Total 70 (100) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total From the above table, it is inferred that 66.6 per cent (100) of the respondents are full time tappers and the remaining 33.4 per cent (50) are part-time tappers. It signifies that the majority of the respondents are tapping rubber trees on a full time basis because they are not willing to-do other works, only concentrating tapping. In Kalkulam taluk 64 per cent (45) are tapping rubber trees on a full time basis, and remaining 36 per cent (25) are on part time basis. In Vilavancode taluk 68 per cent (35) are tapping rubber trees on a full time basis, and remaining 32 per cent (15) are on part time basis. In Thovalai taluk 70 per cent (20) are tapping rubber trees on full time basis, and remaining 30 per cent (10) are on part time basis. Distribution of Sample Respondents on satisfactory level The level of satisfaction differs from farmers to farmers and place to place. The level of satisfaction is one of the factors which determine the preference given to the tapping. The following table shows the opinion about the satisfaction of tappers. Table 4.3 Level of Satisfaction of Tappers Satisfaction of Tappers Taluk Kalkulam Highly satisfied 14 (20.0) Total Satisfied Neutral 19 (27.1) 110 20 (28.6) Poor 10 (14.3) Very poor 7 (10.0) 70 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Vilavancode Thovalai Total 9 (18) 8 (24.2) 31 (20.6) 9 (18) 8 (24.2) 36 (23.9) 13 (26) 12 (36.4) 45 (29.9) 10 (20) 3 (9.1) 23 (15.3) 9 (18) 2 (6.1) 18 (11.9) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table shows that, the opinion regarding the satisfactory level of the tappers. Of the 150 respondents, 20.6 per cent of the respondents feel highly satisfied, 24 per cent of the respondents come under satisfied category, 30 per cent of the respondents are neutral, 15 per cent of the respondents have poor satisfaction, and the remaining 12 percent of the respondents feel very poor about the tapping of the rubber trees. Majority of the respondents feel satisfied about their tapping of the rubber trees because skilled tappers are available there. Factors of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district The following table explains the factors of tappers, based on three taluks, in Kanyakumari district. The factors include Age, Sex, Education, Experience, Experience, Sources of income, Amount of income earned, Sources of finance, Advance received, Repayment of the amount, and Remuneration, are analysed with the help of the Mean score, Standard deviation, t-test and Mean Deviation. 111

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 4.4 Kalkulam Factors Mean Std.dev Age Sex Education Experience t M.D Mean Std.dev t M.D Mean Std.dev T M.D 3.3571 1.53260 -8.969 -1.64286 2.7200 1.19591 -9.322 -1.82000 2.6767 .49013 -8.013 -2.06667 1.4857 .58341 -50.397 -3.51429 1.5200 .61412 -49.719 -3.54000 2.7667 1.30472 -38.760 -3.56667 2.6000 1.42849 -14.057 -2.40000 3.1800 1.69862 -13.481 -2.28000 1.3667 .49013 -9.376 -2.23333 3.1143 1.34642 -11.718 -1.88571 2.7200 1.19591 -40.069 -3.48000 3.3667 1.58622 -40.602 -3.63333 Sources of income 1.9571 1.12205 -22.689 -3.04286 2.5200 1.52850 -7.576 -1.82000 3.2667 1.57422 -5.640 -1.63333 Income earned 2.7465 1.42145 -13.359 -2.25352 3.1400 1.84070 -13.481 -2.28000 2.7000 1.41787 -6.031 -1.73333 Sources of finance 3.0429 1.33445 -12.271 -1.95714 3.1800 1.38048 -11.473 -2.48000 2.1000 1.12495 -8.885 -2.30000 Advance received 1.1857 .39168 -81.475 -3.81429 1.4600 .50346 -7.145 -1.86000 2.9333 1.41259 -14.120 -2.90000 Repayment Remuneration 2.1286 .99158 -24.228 - 2.87143 2.1000 1.03510 -9.322 -1.82000 1.4333 .50401 -15.852 -2.73333 1.4857 .58341 -21.014 -2.44286 2.5800 1.07076 -49.719 -3.54000 2.1667 1.01992 -15.852 -2.83333 Source: Primary data Significance at .01 levels Factors of NR tappers Vilavancode Thovalai 112

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The above table shows that the age is higher among three taluks, who are in Kalkulam taluk as their mean of 3.3571 and standard deviation (1.53260) also greater than other taluks. The Mean deviation of Kalkulam taluk is -1.64, Vilavancode taluk is -1.82and Thovalai taluk is -2.06. The sexwise classification of tappers, the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 1.4857, Vilavancode talukis1.52 and Thovalai taluk is 2.7667 and the Standard deviation values are 0.58341, 0.61412 and 1.30472 respectively, and also to analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -3.51429, -3.54000, and -3.56667 respectively. The educationwise classification of tappers, the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 2.6, Vilavancodetalukis 3.1 and Thovalai taluk is 31.3 and the Standard deviation value are 1.428, 1.698 and 0.49 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -2.4, -2.28, and -2.23333 respectively The experience of tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 3.11, Vilavancodetalukis 2.72 and Thovalai taluk is 3.3667 and the Standard deviation value are1.346 , 1.195 and 1.58 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are - 1.88, -3.48, and -3.6333 respectively. The amount of income earned by the tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 3.74, Vilavancodetalukis 3.14 and Thovalai taluk is 2.7 and the Standard deviation values are1.42 , 1.84 and 1.41 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -2125, -2.28, and -1.7333 respectively The sources of finance of tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 3.04, Vilavancodetalukis 3.18 and Thovalai taluk is 2.1 and the Standard deviation values are 1.33 , 1.3 and 1.12 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -1.95, -2.48, and -2.4333 respectively The advance received by the tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 1.18, Vilavancodetalukis 1.46 and Thovalai taluk is 2.9333 and the Standard deviation values are0.39 , 0.50 and 1.41 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -3.88, -1.86, and -2.9 respectively The repayment of advance money by the tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 2.12, Vilavancodetalukis 2.1 and Thovalai taluk is 1.4333 and the Standard deviation value are 0.99 , 1.03 and 0.50 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -2.87, -1.82, and -2.7 333 respectively The remuneration of tappers in Kanyakumari district , the Mean value for Kalkulam taluk is 1.48, Vilavancode taluk is 2.58 and Thovalai taluk is 2.1667 and the Standard deviation value are 0.58, 1.07 and 1.01 respectively, and also analyse the Mean deviation for three taluks are -2.44, -3.54, and -2.8333 respectively 113

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The entire co-efficient are found significant at 5 percent level. Among the independent variables, repayment, remuneration, advanced received, sources of finance and sources of income, and the dependent variables that include age, sex, education and experience are found to have positive influences. It implies that there is a close relationship between dependent and independent factors of tappers in Kanyakumari district. Paired sample test used for Natural Rubber Tapper in Kanyakumari District The following table explains that the Socio-Economic status of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district based on three taluks namely Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk. Paired sample test is applied and it has ten pairs. Table 4.5 Age and Sources of Finance Pair 1 Age and Sources of Finance Pair 2 Advance Received and Repayment of advance Pair 3 Education and Problems of Tapping Pair 4 Experience and Incentives received Pair 5 Income earned and Satisfaction of tappers Pair 6 Education and Training to the tappers by RB Pair 7 Sources of Income and Income earned Pair 8 Sex and Government Support Pair 9 Sources of Finance and Repayment of advance Pair 10 Age and Training to the tappers by RB The above table explains that, ten pairs of the relationship between Age and Sources of Finance applied in paired sample correlation method in the selected three taluks . In Thovalai taluk shown results as .964 higher positive correlation likewise in case of vilavancode taluk and Kalkulam taluk also shown as higher positive correlation are .907 and .934 respectively. Ho: There is no significance between Age and Sources of Finance of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district. Ho: There is no significance between Advance Received and Repayment of advance money by the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district. Ho: There is no significance between Education and Problems of Tapping by the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between experience and incentive received by the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between Income earned and Satisfaction of Tappers of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between Education and Training given to the tappers by Rubber Board in Kanyakumari district 114

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Ho: There is no significance between Sources of Income and amount of Income earned by the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between Sex wise classification of tappers and Government Support to the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between Sources of Finance and Repayment of advance money by the NR tappers in Kanyakumari district Ho: There is no significance between Age wise classification and Training given to the tappers by Rubber Board in Kanyakumari district Paired sample t- test for Natural Rubber Tapper in Kanyakumari District The Paired-Samples t- Test procedure compares the means of two variables for a single group. The procedure computes the differences between values of the two variables for each case and tests whether the average differs from 0. The following table explains that the three paired sample t –test from the tappers of NR in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.6 Paired sample Pair 1 Pair 2 Pair 3 Pair 4 Pair 5 Pair 6 Pair 7 Pair 8 Pair 9 Pair 10 Paired sample t- test for Natural Rubber Tapper in Kanyakumari District Sig (2 Kalkulam taluk t-test -5.6293 -4.8972 -3.6548 4.050 -10.662 -9.918 -13.173 tailed) Status S S S S S S S .830 NS 1.885 NS -11.518 S Vilavancode taluk t-test -6.461 -6.532 -3.934 Sig (2 tailed) Status S S S 2.214 NS 2.207 NS 6.093 S -3.042 NS -12.219 11.481 S S 1.000 NS Thovalai taluk t-test Sig (2 tailed) Status -2.408 NS -5.809 S -2.536 NS 9.143 -9.049 5.385 6.595 -9.616 7.389 S S S S S S -1.795 NS Source: Primary data, Significance at .01 levels The above table stated that, since the calculated value of all the pair’s t-test is greater 0.01 levels. So the null hypothesis is accepted at 1 per cent level. It can be concluded that there is no significant differences, in Kalkulam taluk from pair 1 to pair 7 and pair 10are accepted, remaining pairs 8 and 9 are rejected. In Vilavancode taluk, from pair 1 to pair 3, pair 6, pair 8 and pair 9 are accepted, there is no significant among the pairs, and remaining pair 4, pair 5, pair 7 and pair 10 are rejected, because there is a significant among the pairs. In Thovalai taluk, from pair 4 to pair 9, pair 2 are accepted, there is no significant among the pairs, and remaining pair 1, pair 3, and pair 10 are rejected, because there is a significant among the pairs. 115

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The Paired-Samples correlation test The Paired-Samples Correlation mean and standard Test is applied. Procedure compares the means of two variables for a single group. The procedure computes the differences between values of the two variables for each case and tests whether the average differs from 0. But the correlation value is + or – 1. The following table explains that the three paired sample correlation from the tappers of NR in Kanyakumari district. 116

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 4.7 Paired sample Pair 1 Pair 2 Pair 3 Pair 4 Pair 5 Pair 6 Pair 7 P i 8 Kalkulam taluk .31429 .94286 -.68571 1.15714 .04286 .64926 .73987 .57843 .73496 .43191 The Paired-Samples correlation test applied for 10 pairs Vilavancode taluk 1.10000 4.88164 -.75714 1 58571 .54999 90878 .907 .759 .943 .838 .955 .426 .930 842 -.46000 -.64000 -.24000 .20000 .46000 .50000 1.47372 .58029 -.62000 1.44123 96065 1 66000 .934 .811 .974 .919 .603 .971 .648 802 -16667. -.73333 -.23333 1.16667 -.80000 .50000 .60000 Thovalai taluk Mean Std.dev Correlation Mean Std.dev Correlation Mean Std.dev Correlation .50346 .69282 .43142 .63888 .37905 .69149 .50401 .69893 .48423 .50855 .49827 1 76667 1 00630 .964 .794 .952 .919 .921 .963 .946 805

Pair 8 Pair 9 Pair 10 -1.58571 .90878 .75632 .28746 1.08673 .927 Source: Primary data, Significance at .01 levels .842 .894 .947 -1.66000 .96065 .66517 .28284 1.08000 .04000 .802 .887 .973 -1.76667 1.00630 .56832 .30513 .76667 -.10000 .805 .941 .972 117

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The above table used Mean, Standard deviation and co-efficient of Correlation methods for 10 pairs of tappers in kanyakumari district. In Kalkulam taluk, all pairs shows the result of variables are more than 0.5, except the pair 6, the correlation values are 0.907 , 0.759, 0.943, 0.838, 0.955, 0.93, 0.842, 0.894, and 0.947 respectively. So it is a highly positive correlation. Among the pairs, there is the highest mean value is 1.15714 receive in the pair 4, and the highest standard deveiation value is 4.88164 received in the pair 6. In Vilavancode taluk, all pairs shows the result of variables are more than 0.5, the correlation values are 0.934 , 0.811, 0.974, 0.919, 0.603, 0.971, 0.648, 0.802, 0.887, and 0.973 respectively. So it is a highly positive correlation, except the pairs 5 and 7 are shows that results is positive correlation . In Thovalai taluk, all pairs shows the result of variables are more than 0.5, the correlation values are 0.964 , 0.794, 0.952, 0.919, 0.921, 0.963, 0.946, 0.805, 0.941, and 0.974, respectively. So it is a highly positive correlation. It signifies that in three taluks, namely Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk, all the paired sample correlation values reflects highly positive correlation, except pair 6 in Kalkulam taluk (0.426) since the results found is above 0.5 per cent level, so that, all these hypothesis are significant one. Sources of income earned The income from agricultural sector and labour sector of the respondents are increasing which is based on taluk wise classification in Kanyakumari district, raised in their sources of income. Total annual earnings of sample respondents’ households consist of income obtained from different sources such as tapping, animal husbandry, agriculture, drivers and casual labour. The following table explains that the sources of income earned by the tappers in three taluks in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.8 Sources Tapping Animal husbandry Agriculture Drivers Labours Total Kalkulam taluk 17 12 6 2 70 47.1 24.3 17.1 8.6 2.9 100.0 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures indicate the percentage to total 118 Sources of income earned Vilavancode taluk 20 7 8 7 8 50 40.0 14.0 16.0 14.0 16.0 100.0 Thovalai taluk Respondent percentage Respondent percentage Respondent Percentage 33 9 7 5 4 5 30 30.0 23.3 16.7 13.3 16.7 100.0 Total 62 36 25 17 15 150

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The above table inferred that the Major portion of the respondents’ income 41 per cent is obtained from rubber tapping. The contribution of labours [10 per cent] and that of agriculture is 16 per cent. The second largest source of income is animal husbandry is 25 per cent. In the Kalkulam taluk, income group share of different sources is tapping 47 per cent, agriculture 17 per cent, animal husbandry 24 per cent, casual labour 3 per cent and drivers 9 per cent. In Vilavancode taluk income group the pattern of contribution of different sources is tapping 40 per cent, agriculture and casual labours are 16 per cent, animal husbandry and drivers are 14 per cent. In the Thovalai taluk, income group share of different sources is tapping 30 per cent, agriculture and casual labours are 17 per cent, animal husbandry 23 per cent, and drivers are 13 per cent. Mode of tapping Once the trees become mature for tapping, then the demand for labour arises mainly in tapping. Majority of small holders have a tendency to hire tappers, though they are unemployed. Small growers are ready to tap themselves. The percent of small growers family members engage in tapping is very low. Educated members of the growers" families, even if unemployed, are not interested in tapping. This phenomenon naturally increases the demand for tapping labourers. The labour force consists of persons coming within the age group of 18 to 60 except students, disabled and housewives. The following table shows that the mode of tapping in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.9 Mode of tapping Mode of tapping Arasu rubber board Smallholdings Estates Own land Total Kalkulam taluk 21 28 12 9 30 40 17 13 Vilavancode taluk 18 15 11 6 70 100 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures indicate the percentage to total The above table illustrated that the mode of tapping of the trees include Arasu rubber board, smallholders, estates, and own land, out of the 150 sample respondents 36 per cent of the respondents are tapping the trees in smallholdings, nearly 32 per cent of the respondents are tapping the trees in Arasu rubber board, 18 per cent of the respondents are tapping the trees in estates, and remaining 14 per cent respondents are tapping the trees in their own garden. It signifies that the majority of the respondents are tapping the trees in smallholdings, and some of them preferred to tapping the trees in Arasu rubber board, because of they are enjoyed 119 50 30.0 22.0 12.0 100 Thovalai taluk Respondent % Respondent % Respondent % 36.0 9 11 6 4 30 31.0 37.9 20.7 13.3 Total 48 54 29 19 100 150

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 some monetary and non-monetary privileges like education scholarship, medical facility, headlight, monthly salary received, housing facility etc., than the others. Payment received by the tappers Generally, tappers receive wages on the basis of the number of trees tapped or per day remuneration or monthly salary. The average wage rate for tapping 100 trees is estimated. During the period 1990-92, the rising tendency of natural rubber price caused an abnormal rise of wage by 33 percent bringing the average wage from Rs.18 per 100 trees to Rs. 24/-. In almost all the cases the nature of wage payment is piece rate. The mode of wage payment in 98 percent of cases is payment by cash. The rest of tappers ie.; 2 percent are receiving wages as half of rubber sheets they produced. Along with wage, perquisites like meals or snacks are enjoyed by negligible number of tappers. The following table explains that the remuneration received by the tappers in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.10 Mode of payment Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Thovalai taluk Payment Daily/weekly remuneration Rate per tree Monthly salary Both (A) and (B) Total Respondent % Respondent % Respondent % 26 8 31 15 16 70 11.4 44.3 21.4 22.9 100.0 13 9 16 12 50 7 18.0 32.0 24.0 100 11 9 3 30 Total 23.3 28 51 30.0 40 10.0 31 100.0 150 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures indicate the percentage to total The above table stated that, the remuneration paid to the tappers include monthly basis, daily/weekly basis, rate per tree basis, and both rate per tree and non-rate per tree basis Basically, two methods of payment to the tappers, piece rate of tree and non-piece rate of tree. Out of the 150 sample respondents 34 per cent of the tappers are received payment on piece rate per tree basis, nearly 26 per cent of the tappers have received payment on daily/ monthly basis, 21 per cent of the tappers are received payment on both (A) and (B) basis, and remaining 19 per cent of the tappers are received payment on monthly salary basis. It signifies that most of the NR tappers have received payment on the basis of piece rate per tree tapping, because in Kanyakumari district NR cultivation in smallholdings. Mode of repayment by the tappers Generally, when the tappers are preferred to tapped trees in their single holdings, due to the shortage of skilled tappers are available in Kanyakumari district, the estate holders or owner of 120

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 smallholdings are given advance money to the tappers for the purpose of tapping trees in their garden permanently. The following table explains that the mode of repayment by the tappers in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.11 Mode of repayment Mode of repayment Monthly Weekly B i-Monthly Others Total Kalkulam taluk 17 23 9 8 30.0 40.0 17.1 12.9 Vilavancode taluk 10 8 6 3 36.0 30.0 22.0 12.0 Thovalai taluk Respondent Percentage Respondent Percentage Respondent Percentage 5 6 4 3 57 100.0 27 100.0 17 30.0 36.7 20.0 13.3 100.0 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures indicate the percentage to total The above table stated that the mode of repayment by the tappers include monthly basis, weekly basis, Bi-monthly basis, and others. Out of the 150 sample respondents 36 per cent of the tappers are repayment of the advance money on weekly basis, nearly 32 per cent of the tappers are received payment on monthly basis, 18 per cent of the tappers have received payment on bimonthly basis, and remaining 14 per cent of the tappers are received payment on both the basis. It signifies that the majority of the NR tappers have repaid of their advance money weekly, because they are received remuneration based on piece per tree tapping, in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.12 Function of the government support Government support Excellent Satisfied Moderate Poor Very poor Total Kalkulam taluk Resp ondent Perc entage 12 17.1 13 18.6 14 20.0 20 28.6 11 15.7 Vilavancode taluk Resp ondent 9 7 9 16 9 Resp ondent 18.0 14.0 18.0 32.0 18.0 Thovalai taluk Resp Perc ondent 4 7 6 7 6 entage 13.3 25 23.3 27 20.0 29 23.3 43 20.0 26 70 100.0 50 100.0 30 100.0 150 16 18 20 28 18 100 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures indicate the percentage to total The above table shows that 34 per cent of the respondents have expressed that the functioning of the government support to the tappers is satisfied. Among them 25 are in Kalkulam taluk, 16 are in Vilavancode taluk and 11 are in Thovalai taluk. Out of the total 20 per cent of the respondents felt that the functioning of the Government support is moderate. Among them 14 are in Kalkulam taluk, 9are in Vilavancodetaluk and 6 are in Thovalai taluk. And only 46 per cent of the 121 Total Perc entage Total 48 54 29 19 150

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 respondents felt that the functioning of the Government support is poor. Among them 31 are in Kalkulam taluk, 25are in Vilavancode taluk and 13 are in Thovalai taluk. Problems faced by the tappers in tapping Now-a-days the labour is the most important problem in rubber and other agricultural commodities production. The demand and supply conditions of tappers' labour market are determined by objective factors as price of natural rubber, wage rate, nature of work etc. and subjective factors such as the perspective of tapper and grower, moral ties etc. At present there is no serious scarcity of tappers, though there is scarcity of skilled persons. The trend shows that in the future the situation of scarcity of tappers, whether skilled or unskilled, will become chronic due to the nature of younger generation not to depend on tapping for livelihood, decline in rubber economy and consequent reduction in wage rate. The following table explains that the problems faced by the tappers in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.13 Problems faced by the tappers Problems in tapping Transportation Low charges Non – seasonal Natural calamities Lack of inputs Delay in payment confestration Total Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Thovalai taluk Respondent % Respondent % Respondent % 8 21 12 14 6 5 4 70 11.4 30.0 17.1 20.0 8.6 7.1 5.7 100 8 10 12 6 5 5 4 50 16.0 20.0 24.0 12.0 10.0 10.0 8.0 100.0 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total It is clear from the above table that, the problems faced by the tappers are transportation, low wages, non-seasonal period, natural calamities, lack of inputs, delay in payment, and confestration . 13 per cent of tappers have problems like transportation, above 20 per cent of tappers have problems like low charges or low wages and non-seasonal, 10 per cent of the tappers are facing problems like lack of inputs and delay in payments and at least 6 per cent of the tappers have problem is confestration. Only few tappers are in the study area facing monkey bite, snake bite, elephant etc., In Kalkulam taluk, majority of the tappers are facing low charges or low wages is received, and only 20 per cent of the tappers are facing the problems like non-seasonal cultivation of rubber in Vilavancode and Thovalai taluks . 122 4 4 6 5 5 5 1 30 Total 13.3 20 13.3 35 23.3 30 16.7 25 16.7 16 16.7 15 9 100.0 150

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Advance received by the tappers When the tappers are preferred to tapped trees in their single holdings, due to the shortage of skilled tappers are available in Kanyakumari district, the estate holders or owner of smallholdings are given advance money to the tappers for the purpose of tapping trees in their garden permanently. Additional nominal benefits like bonus, festival allowance, children education allowance, scholarship for SC/ST Candidates etc. are enjoyed by the tappers. The following table explains the details of those who receive advance money from their owner of the garden. Table 4.14 Advance yes no Total Kalkulam taluk 13 70 Advance received by the tappers Vilavancode taluk 81.4 18.6 100.0 27 23 50 54.0 46.0 100 Thovalai taluk Respondent Percentage Respondent Percentage Respondent Percentage 57 17 13 30 56.7 43.3 100.0 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table shows that whether the respondents getting advance money from the government or owner of the garden or not. Out of 150 respondents, 57 per cent of the respondents are getting advance money from the government or owner of the garden and remaining 43 per cent of the respondents are not getting advance money from the government or owner of the garden. Out of the 101 benefited tappers, 57 are in Kalkulam taluk, 27 are in Vilavancode taluk and 17 are in Thovalai taluk. Out of the 49 non-benefited tappers, 13 are in Kalkulam taluk, 23 are in Vilavancode taluk and 13 are in Thovalai taluk. Training programmes attended by the tappers To improve their quality and personality, Government has been conducting a number of training programmes to tappers through Rubber Board. One programme differs from the other. If they attend many such training programmes, it will sharpen their knowledge of tapping. Rubber Board make an arrangement for give training to the tappers. Tapping of rubber trees is not only a skilled job but also highly labour intensive. Decline in the natural rubber economy causes decline or stagnation in wage rate and reduction in the number of working days. Their wage rate is too low. Details regarding training programme attended by the tappers in Kanyakumari district listed in the table 4.15 123

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 4.15 Opinion towards Training programmes attended Traini ng Excelle nt Satisfie d Modera te Poor Very poor Total Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Thovalai taluk Responde nt 14 15 15 16 10 70 Percenta ge 20.0 21.4 21.4 22.9 14.3 100.0 Responde nt 9 16 12 8 5 50 Percenta ge 18.0 32.0 24.0 16.0 10.0 100.0 Responde nt 5 6 11 4 4 30 Percenta ge 16.7 20.0 36.7 13.3 13.3 100.0 28 37 38 28 19 150 Total Responde nt Percenta ge 19 26 26 19 20 100 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table 4.15 by using a five point questionnaire to assess the opinion regarding the Training programmes attended by tappers in Kanyakumari district. It was found that the majority of 26 per cent of the tappers have expressed satisfied and moderate of the Training programmes. 20 per cent of the tappers are feel Training programme is very poor, and remaining 19 per cent of have expressed excellent and poor of the Training programmes. Government support to the tappers Among the Government measures to uplift the NR rural tappers enjoy the Merit Award, Educational stipend, Group insurance, Medical attendance, Housing subsidy, and Housing subsidy to SC/ST tappers in the unorganised sector. The Rubber act 1947, provides amongst other functions shall be the duty of the board to secure better working conditions and the provisions and improvement of amenities and incentives for rubber tappers. The following table shows that sample respondents get supported from the Government. Table 4.16 Government support Excellent Satisfied Moderate Poor Very poor Total Kalkulam taluk 20 14 13 11 70 17.1 28.6 Government support to the tappers Vilavancode taluk 9 20.0 18.6 15.7 100.0 Source: Computed from Primary data 124 16 9 7 9 50 18.0 32.0 18.0 14.0 18.0 100.0 Thovalai taluk Respondent Percentage Respondent Respondent Respondent Percentage 12 4 7 6 7 6 30 13.3 23.3 20.0 23.3 20.0 100.0 Total Percentage 25 43 29 27 26 150 16 28 20 18 18 100

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The Table 4.16shows that, A five point questionnaire was framed to assess the opinion regarding the Government support to the NR tappers. It was found that the majority of 28 per cent of the tappers have expressed satisfied on its Government support. 20 per cent of the tappers feel their Government support have moderate. 18 per cent of have expressed poor and very poor of the Government support. Only 16 per cent of the tappers have expressed as an excellent of the Government support to the NR tappers. Nature of assistance received from the Rubber Board The Indian Rubber Board was constituted under the Rubber (production and marketing) act, 1947. The function of the rubber board is to promote by such measures as it thinks fit the development of the rubber industry. It is also supported to the NR tappers like providing subsidy for new planting and re-planting, providing advice and extension services, Supplying technical advices, Training for rubber tapping and cultivation, Proper education and motivation, and Improving marketing of rubber. The following table explain that the Nature of assistance received from the Rubber Board by the tapper in Kanyakumari district. Table 4.17 Nature of assistance Excellent Satisfied Moderate Poor Very poor Total Kalkulam taluk 11 27 12 10 70 14.3 15.7 38.6 17.1 14.3 100.0 Nature of assistance Vilavancode taluk Respondent Percentage Respondent percentage 10 20 7 8 7 8 50 40 14 16 14 16 100 Thovalai taluk Respon dent 5 6 7 7 5 30 Percentage 16.7 20.0 23.3 23.3 16.7 Total Percentage 35 24 42 26 23 100.0 150 23 16 28 17 16 100 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total. From the table 4.17 inferred that opinion regarding Nature of assistance received from the Rubber Board to the tappers in Kanyakumari district. Out of 150 respondents, 28 per cent of the tappers are feel as moderate , 23 per cent of the tappers are feel as an excellent, 17 per cent of the tappers are feel poor and remaining 16 per cent of the tappers are feel as satisfied and very poor in the nature of the assistance of rubber board in Kanyakumari. Year of experience Old is gold. Like that experienced tappers have more knowledge and expertise in the field of tapping than the younger generation. For the present study experienced of tappers are classified 125

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 as below 5 years, 5-10 years, 10-15 years, 15-20 years, and above 20 years. The following table presented that the experience of tappers in NR tapping. Table 4.18 Year of experience for tappers Year of experie nce below 5 years 5-10 10-15 15-20 Above 20 Total Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Thovalai taluk Respond ent 12 9 22 13 14 70 Percent age 17 13 31 18 20 100.0 Respond ent 9 13 15 9 4 50 Percent age 18 26 30 18 8 100 Respond ent 10 7 6 4 3 30 Percent age 17 23 20 13 10 100 31 29 43 26 21 150 Total Respond ent Percent age 21 19 29 17 14 100 Source: Computed from Primary dataNote: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total Table 4.18 indicates that the experiences of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district, and its classified into three taluks. Out of total respondents, 43(29 per cent) are having the experience from 10-15 years, 31 (21 per cent) are having the experience of below 5 years, 29 (19 per cent) are having the experience from 5-10 years, 17(26 per cent) have the experience from 15-20 years, and remaining 21(14 per cent) have the experience of above 20 years. Amount of monthly income The income particular helps us to know the living conditions of the tappers. Income is one of the important determining factors of a marketable surplus. Rich growers don not need financial assistance from other agencies, because of their sound financial position. He does not sell out all the NR products at once. It reduces the marketable surplus. He is waiting to sell out their rubber sheets or milky rubber for higher prices. In the present study, amount of monthly income of the respondents are classified as below Rs. 20000/-,Rs. 20000/- to Rs. 25000/-, Rs. 25000/- to Rs. 30000/-, Rs. 30000/- to Rs. 35000/-, and above Rs. 35000/. The distribution of respondents according to their monthly income is depicted under the table. Table 4.19 Amount of monthly income Amou nt of income (Rs.) Below 20000 2000025000 25000Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Responde nt 17 18 15 Percenta ge 23.9 25.4 21.1 Responde nt 10 11 9 Responde nt 20.0 22.0 18.0 126 Thovalai taluk Responde nt 7 8 5 Percenta ge 23.3 26.6 16.7 Total Responde nt 34 37 29 Percenta ge 23 25 19

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 30000 3000035000 Above 35000 Total 8 12 70 11.3 16.3 100.0 8 12 50 16.0 22.0 100 5 5 30 16.7 16.7 100 21 29 150 Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total From table 4.11 it is understood that out of total respondents a maximum of 37(25 per cent) have a monthly income of Rs. 20000/- to Rs. 25000/-, followed by 34(25 per cent) have a monthly income is below Rs. 20000/--, 29 (19 per cent) have a monthly income of Rs. 25000/- to Rs. 30000/-, and above Rs.35000 and 21(14 per cent ) with a monthly income of Rs. 30000/- to Rs. 35000/-. It concluded that majority of the respondent earned monthly income of Rs 20000-25000. One way ANOVA Table 4.20 Kalkulam taluk Factors Mean square Age 16.711 232.271 Education 33.631 220.802 Sex Experience 16.711 232.271 Ho: Satisfaction of tappers with dependent variable Vilavancode taluk F -test Status Mean square S 16.711 232.271 S 33.631 220.802 S 16.711 232.271 F -test Status Thovalai taluk Mean square S 11.2 58.544 S 17.2 94.031 F -test Status S 3.903 61.273 S 3.903 61.273 S 1.519 42.734 S 16.9 92.520 S S S Source: Primary data. Significance at 5% level S – significance From the table 4.20 it is observed that the significant influencing satisfaction of tappers in kanyakumari district, include age, education, sex, and experience, among the variable , there is a high mean score of education is 33.631in Kalkulam taluk, and Vilavancode taluk, and94.031in Thovalai taluk. It inferred that an education helps to enrich the personality of the tappers in all aspects. Since the calculated value of all the F-test is greater 0.05 levels, the null hypothesis is accepted at 5 per cent level. It can be concluded that there is no significant differences, in the selected three taluks are accepted. SUMMARY This chapter deals with socio – economic profile of the tappers, tapping area, methods of tapping, Nature of assistance received from the Rubber Board, satisfaction of tappers etc. Tapper wages constitute a major component of cost of production of NR. Due to shortage of tappers and the resultant high wages, low frequency tapping systems are favoured in most of the regions. In 127 14 19 100

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 majority cases, tapping charge is calculated on per tree basis. In some places the grower himself/family member does the tapping activity. 128

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER - V MARKETING OF RUBBER IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT 5.1 INTRODUCTION The first step in the marketing of rubber is the collection of surplus goods in the case of a consumer or the whole production in the case of an industrial raw material from the individual growers. Rubber is first obtained in the form of latex. Usually it is made into sheets. The next function in the marketing of rubber is its transportation from production centre to consumption centre. Though Kanyakumari district accounts for more than 90 per cent of the rubber produced in Tamil Nadu, only less than 30 per cent is consumed in the district. The remaining quantity has to be transported to other States by ship, rail or road. Packing is another important marketing function. Rubber sheets are generally packed in rubber itself; for top quality rubber such as pale latex crepe and crepe, plywood cartons are also used; for solid block rubber polythene sheets are used. Rubber passes from the production center through different channels to the manufacturer. For the estate sector, there is no difficulty in selling the rubber when compared to the small holding sector. The estates are able to sell this rubber direct to the manufacturers. Before they dispatch their rubber, they sort, grade and pack them in standard bundles in the estates itself. The estate sector produces mostly top grade rubber and their produce is therefore in high demand. When the estates are follow a systematic way of processing and marketing. But the cases of small holdings are different. The small holders are marketed their rubber through dealers and co-operative societies. Often they do not hold any stock and storage facility. When they accumulate a week’s production, they take it to the nearest market and sell it off. Sometimes rubber is even sold to local traders who visit the holdings and collect rubber at periodical intervals. There are some dealers and merchants who advance loans given to small holders without charge interest. But the growers should market their rubber only through them. Marketing is a very wide subject involving various techniques, methods and procedures. A suitable marketing strategy is the key for successful marketing. To involve into marketing strategy, one should essentially possess update knowledge of this market. This will facilitate the building up of a picture of the market and would also provide guidelines for making a realistic sales forecast for future. For this purpose, details on the following aspects are the basic requirements; 1. Size of the market 2. Demand 3. Market structure 4. Buying habits 129

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 5. Market share 6. Overseas market The activities of rubber marketing system are connected with the movement of rubber from the primary producers to the ultimate consumers. There are distinct differences in the primary marketing system in the small holding and the estate sectors. The marketing of natural rubber in Kerala is commonly adopted by small holders and estate sectors. Small holders and estate sector sell natural rubber to traders or dealers through a marketing channel. 5.2 OPERATIONAL TERMS USED IN MARKETING OF RUBBER 5.2 (A) Retailers The rubber market is concentrated in three Taluks consisting of many villages. In each village there are nearly 10 retail shops, each retailer will purchase up to 3 tonnes per month. Retailers operated at village level. These retailers undertake the initial working of assembling the produce from the small growers in and around their place of business. Nearly 80 per cent of the small growers dispose of their products through the retailers only 50 per cent of the retailers have the licence to deal in rubber. The retailers are stationed at important villages noted for their potentials for latex production. The only factor which influences the choice of a particular retailer is his proximity of the planters. Small growers are produce 5 to 7 sheets of rubber per day. They carry the rubber sheets to the retailers either by cycle or by head-load. Those who produce 10 to 25 sheets carry the rubber by means of mopeds or cycles. But planters who produce 25 to 100 sheets of rubber use their own vehicle and jeep for transportation purpose. . 5.2 (B) Dealers The Rubber Act, 1947 regulated the activities of the rubber dealers in India. According to the Act, rubber dealers have to take out a license from the Rubber Board for dealing in rubber. The rubber dealers can be broadly divided into three:(1)Primary dealers, (2) Middle level dealers and (3) Big level dealers Unlicensed dealers are found to be prevalent to some extent in India, though it is abolished under the Rubber Act, 1947. Unlicensed dealers usually operate at interior places. They collect rubber from small holders by visiting them periodically. (a) Primary dealers Primary dealers are operated at village level. A dealer is people who are purchases rubber between 40 and 100 tonnes per month. They are called as primary dealers. b) Middle level dealers Dealers who purchase rubber between 100 and 200 tonnes per month are the middle level dealers. Sometimes middle level dealers sell directly to the industrial consumer also. 130

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 c) Big level dealers Big dealer buy and store raw rubber between 200 and 500 tonnes monthly. Some of the big dealers will receive the order from the industrial consumers and they execute it at the proper time. Some of them dispose their rubber products to the wholesalers. 5.2 (C) Wholesalers Wholesalers are industries dealing 500 to 1000 tonnes of raw rubber per month wholesales may mainly from middle level dealers, big dealers and estate holders. They in turn dispose of their rubber directly to big industrial consumers like M.R.T. ltd, Appollo tyre etc. There is no need for any broker and middleman in effecting the sale of rubber sheet to the retailer. The reason is that there is homogeneity about the prices paid for a sheet of rubber. The existing price of a kilogram of rubber sheets is Rs. 96/- the rubber sheets are off loaded at the retail shop. They are weighted and payments for the same are made without any loss of time. The retailers sell the rubber sheets mostly to the wholesaler who has established their bases of operation in Madras. While selling the rubber sheets they pay a tax of 8 per cent. They pay a tax of Rs.8, 000/- for the rubber sheets worth Rs. 1 lakh sold out to wholesaler. To avoid such tax the retailers in rubber mostly operate in black markets. To make matters worse. They manage to establish branches of their shops in busy cities as a prelude to carry on their illegal operations still more effectively. 5.2 (D) Co-operative Marketing The Co-operative Marketing Societies have entered the field of rubber marketing with the main objective of helping the small holders to secure a reasonable price for their produce. The cooperative societies dealing in rubber have to compete with private dealers who have adequate capital and a sound system of functioning to control the market. If properly organized, designed and financed these primary marketing co-operative societies can do much for solving the small holders1 marketing problems. 5.2 (E) Marketable Forms of Natural Rubber The important forms, in which the crop can be processed and marketed, are (i) Sheet rubbers (ii) Crepe rubbers (iii) Preserved field latex and latex concentrates (iv) Block rubber The crop collected in the form of latex can be processed into any of the above forms. But the crop collected as field coagulum can be processed only into crepe or block rubber. (a) Sheet rubber 131

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Latex is coagulated in suitable containers into thin slabs of coagulum and sheeted through a set of smooth rollers followed by a grooved set and dried to obtain sheet rubber. Sheet rubbers are classified into two; Ribbed Smoked Sheets and air Derived Sheets (Pale Amber Unmasked Sheets). A major quantity of rubber in India (about 71 per cent) is marketed in the sheet form at present, as it is the oldest and the simplest method of processing latex into a marketable form. (b) Synthetic rubber Natural rubber is an all purpose rubber but due to its shortage during the Second World War period many types of synthetic rubbers were developed. They are classified as general purpose rubbers and speciality rubbers. (c) Reclaimed rubber Reclaimed rubber is manufactured by treatment of old and worn out tyres, tubes and other used rubber articles with certain chemical agents at a high temperature/pressure. Reclaimed rubber is used in the manufacture of goods usually in blend with natural or synthetic rubber. The manufacturing industry in India consumed 102,435 tonnes of reclaimed rubber during 2014-15. 5.2 (F) Brokerage and commission In Kanyakumari district as it has been stated that there are more than 200 retailers have obtained license for dealing in latex from the government through the rubber board. They are called upon to maintain proper accounts for the number of sheets produced every day from the local planters and the money paid out to them. 5.2 (G) Fluctuations in Rubber Price The price for rubber products plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of the rubber industry in Kanyakumari district. The most important rubber product are the rubber sheet, as it is well known a rubber sheet of standard size and quality weight of 1 kg with a view to find out the changes in the prices of rubber sheets day after day, month after month and year after year. The investigator has taken pains to collect details about the prices of rubber sheets from well-established producers since 1995. 5.3 (H) Inadequate Supply of Rubber The demand for rubber product is high. During 1950, India was an exporter of natural rubber and the position reversed. Thereafter day by day rubber based industries are increasing. Therefore the demand for rubber is increase. The problem faced by the rubber producers in Kanyakumari district is that they are unable to crop up with the unprecedented increase in the demand for rubber in certain environment. 5.3 (I) Price of rubber The prices of NR is currently the most significant issue of the global rubber industry and trade, as NR has now become more of a social commodity affecting the livelihood over 30 million 132

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 smallholders, worldwide. The fundamental factors influencing NR prices are demand and supply while all other factors have indirect effects. Rubber growers have been received better prices in the world, especially at the farm gate. The low prices of rubber due to fall in industrial activity, economic showdown and recession in the country and outside. 5.2 (J) Economic importance of Rubber In India the southern state of Kerala leads the production and the marketing of rubber products with a 93 percent share of total production in the whole of the country followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Tripura, Assam, and Nagaland with a combined share of 7 percent. At the global level, India enjoys the third position in the production of natural rubber next to Thailand and Indonesia which occupy the first and second slots respectively. 5.2 (K) Rubber wood In recent years rubber wood has emerged as an alternate source of timber in India. It has high environmental acceptability both in domestic and International markets. Processed rubber wood has a wide range of application like furniture, panelling, table top, flooring, household article etc. A new major source of timber a rubber wood - standard common name for the timber of Hevea brasiliensis a timber obtained from SMSs, it has high environment acceptability in the global market as a substitute for other tropical timber products. The rubber wood industry has started taking rapid strides only in the past two decades. The wood has a very uniform structure and contains large vessels that are clearly visible to the naked eye. 5.2 (L) Physical properties of Rubber Wood The wood is a moderately heavy timber with density and strength fairly close to that of oak and teak. The physical properties vis-a-vis teak are shown under the table. Table 5.1 Physical properties – dry rubber wood vs. dry teak wood Property Moisture content Specific gravity Static modulus of rapture (kg\cm2) Bending modulus of elasticity (kg\cm2) Hardness, kg side End 756.0 82.0 538.0 621 Source: Asian Rubber Handbook and Directory 2005. 5.2 (M) Consumption of Rubber Wood. Consumption of rubber wood and its products has been rising steadily since the 1980’s, particularly in the US and in the European Union, since they are recognized as eco-friendly products. The demand for rubber wood may grow very fast in the coming years for reasons already cited. The wood’s potential for replacing valuable tropical timber species and relieving the pressure 133 Rubber wood Teak wood 12.0 .557 12.0 .0604 959.0 119.6 512 488

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 off the tropical forests is substantial since the major tropical timber exporters are the main rubber producing countries. 5.2 (N) Marketing Channel Marketing channels are the alternative routes through which the products passes from the initial producer to the ultimate consumer. Therefore the marketing channel of natural rubber deals with all the intermediaries of middleman who involved in marketing of natural rubber from the initial producer to the ultimate consumer. The rubber sheet produced by the cultivators are sold either directly to the manufactures of rubber products who are the ultimate consumers or through local merchants, whole sales and growers co-operative marketing society. 5.2 (O) Branding Branding is a modern management technique to improve the domestic as well as international acceptability of a commodity. In the case of NR, it is an assurance of quality and a promise by the exporter, with the endorsement of the Board. The brand will fetch a premium price for the rubber exported which, in turn, will definitely benefit the one million primary producers of India. The brand is promoted with a view to differentiating the Indian NR on its consistent quality parameters in line with the international standards. Good brands are built on good reputation. Good reputation is built on good publicity. Production, Import, Export and Consumption of Natural Rubber: The country is saving over 2000 crores annually in foreign exchange through production of about six lakh tones of natural rubber, strategic raw material needed for industrial progress. Today India has realized the strategic importance of natural rubber as a potential foreign exchange earner. The relationship between prices of NR and its production, consumption, exports and imports to identify the nature of competition and structure of NR market in India. There is significant relationship between NR price and consumption and imports due to the influence of a few buyers on prices through their purchase and imports in an oligopolistic market. The following table shows the production, import, export and consumption of natural rubber from 2000-01 to 2013-14. Table 5.2 Production, Import, Export and Consumption of Natural Rubber In tonnes Year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 Production 631400 649435 711650 749665 Import 049769 026217 044199 072835 134 Export Consumption 6995 55311 75905 46150 638210 695425 719600 755405

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Total Mean Std.dev 802625 852895 825345 864500 831400 861950 903700 913700 844000 645000 11087265 791948 97112 045285 089799 086394 077762 177130 190692 213785 217364 325190 442130 2058551 147039 121932 Source: Rubber Growers Guide, 2015 The table 5.1 clearly shows that the production of natural rubber has increased from 631400 in 2001-02 to 852895 in 2006-07, and 2007-08 onwards it may be vary till 2012-13. The import of natural rubber has varied from year to year, and the export of natural rubber also in fluctuating trend. But there is an abnormal decline of export is 5398 tonnes in the year 2013-14. The consumption of natural rubber has increased from 638210 in 2001-02 to 1020910 in 2014-15. The above table also shows that output of the Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for the production of rubber is791948 tonnes , and consumption of rubber is 855790 tonnes, imports of rubber is 147039 tonnes, and exports of rubber is 38650 tonnes and the standard deviation value are 97112, 120512, 121932 and 24499 tonnes respectively. From the study we understood, that consumption exceeds production of NR in India, gap might be fulfilled by the imports. 5.3 INDIAN RUBBER MARKET India’s production of NR varies between 6 and 7 lakh tons annually which amounts to Rs. 3000 crores. 70 percent of the total rubber production in India is in the form of Ribbed Smoked Sheets (RSS). This is also imported by India accounting for 45 percentage of the total import of rubber. The Indian rubber industry has a turnover of Rs. 12,000 crores. Most of the rubber production is consumed by the tyre industry which is almost 52 percentage of the total production of India. Among the states, Kerala is the leading consumer of rubber followed by Punjab and Maharashtra. 5.4CHARACTERISTICS OF NATURAL RUBBER MARKET IN INDIA In India, NR is produced in southern states especially in Kerala but it is consumed all over the country. It necessitates the connecting link between producers and consumers through rubber 135 73830 56545 60353 46926 025090 029851 027145 030594 5398 1002 541095 38650 24499 801110 820305 861455 871720 930565 947715 964415 972705 981520 1020910 11981060 855790 120512

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 dealers and agents. The presence and influence of a few big dealers in the Indian rubber market cannot be overlooked. They are able to control the supply side of NR by adopting their profitmaking strategies. a) Indian rubber market has been influenced by the pressure tactics of two different pressure groups of producers and manufacturers to protect their own interests. b) The Indian rubber market has no mechanism to dispose of the accumulated stock of rubber especially during peak production periods. But when the market feels scarcity of rubber, it will be rectified through import within no time. 5.5 PROBLEMS FACED BY SMALL GROWERS IN MARKETING The small growers are occupying a very dominant position in area and in production in the rubber plantation industry in India, their problems related to marketing ' are complex. 1. Difficulties in Regular Disposal of Stock Timely and regular disposal of rubber at reasonable prices is very important to the small holders. But accumulation of very high stocks with growers is a regular feature in the peak production period in September - January. Generally, the stocks are left at normal level only from the month of April and the small holders are affected by this. 2. Difficulties in Grading Visual grading invariably leads to the unhealthy trading practice of downgrading because the system is subjective in nature. Down grading exists during periods of slackening demand when the buyer is less anxious to buy and the seller is more anxious to sell. In such situation the price and grade will be fixed at the buyer's choice. "No grading agency at present functions to confirm or contradict grading which is usually done by the buyer." The small holders whose holdings capacity is poor are in the midst of this unhealthy practice. 3. Lack of Certainty in the Market This is also a problem incidental to accumulation of stock with growers and lack of demand. Wide fluctuations in the market prices of rubber market are based on the demand and supply of rubber. Under such conditions there is no guarantee that the small holders are assured of at least the minimum notified prices. The uncertainty in the market leads to the exploitation of the small holders by the dealers and middlemen. 4. Price fluctuations The Rubber Act vests the Central Government with powers for prohibiting, restricting and controlling import and exports of rubber either in general or in specified classes. The Act empowers the Government to notify prices. Minimum and maximum prices are fixed and notified so that growers may know what minimum prices they are entitled to and the rubber users may know 136

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 what prices have to be paid by them. The Indian rubber market is characterized by wide fluctuations in the market prices. 5. Exploitation by Middleman Another problem encounter in marketing of rubber in Kanyakumari district is the exploitation by middleman. The number of intermediaries and middlemen between the farmer and final consumer is too many and the margin is large. The middle men are playing a dominant role in the marketing of rubber in Kanyakumari district. They get a huge of money from the sellers and the buyers. 6. Inadequate Supply of Rubber The demand for rubber product is high. During 1950, India was an exporter of natural rubber and the position reversed. Thereafter day by day rubber based industries are increasing. Therefore the demand for rubber is increase. The problem faced by the rubber producers in Kanyakumari district is that they are unable to crop up with the unprecedented increase in the demand for rubber in certain environment. Foreign Trade of Rubber Products in India Balance of trade is an important factor for the determination of national economy. There is the difference between export and import is called as balance of trade. The following table explains that the Foreign Trade of Rubber Products in India, from 2001-02 to 2014-15. To ascertain the significant difference between export and import, “T” statistics and correlation are administered. The resultant mean and standard deviation are also presented in the table. Table 5.3 Foreign Trade of Rubber Products in India Year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Total Mean Exports (MT) 6995 55311 75905 46150 73830 56545 60353 46926 25090 29851 27145 30591 5398 1002 541095 38650 Imports (MT) 49769 26217 44199 72835 45285 89799 86394 77762 177130 190672 213785 262753 360263 442130 2058551 147039 137 Balance of Trade (MT) -42774 +29094 +31706 -26685 +28545 -33254-26041 -30836 -152040 160841 -186640 -232159 -354865 -441128 -1242982 -95614

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Std.dev correlation 24499 -0.745 121932 -193861 Source: Rubber Asia, May – June 2015, As it is evident from above table 5.3 that, exports of rubber product from India have been on increased, from 6995 tonnes in 2001-02 to 60353 tonnes in 2007-08 except 2004-05 and 2006-07 were slightly decreased export of rubber sheets. During the study period, from 2001-02 to 2014-15 all the years except 2002-03, 2003-04, 2005-06, 2013-14 and 2014-15, the balance of trade is negative, because of imports exceeds exports. This study also reveals that balance of trade is deficit is -1242982 tonnes of NR sheets. Imports and exports of NR are in fluctuating trend. But, 2009-10 onwards import shows an increasing trend. It signifies that, imports exceeds export, the national economy might be affected. So the government should motivate the production of NR growers through Rubber Board. This is mainly due to the economic policies of our country such as globalization, liberalization and privatization. The above table shows that output of the Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for the export is 38649, import is 152785.2 and balance of trade deficit is - 95614 tonnes and the standard deviation value are, 24499 and 128597 respectively. Thus, it is concluded that there is no significant relation between import and export. Since the correlation value is -0.745, is a negative correlation.. Natural Rubber Prices After the opening up of the Indian economy in 1990s, India’s domestic rubber market started showing links to the international market. Probable determinants of volatility in natural rubber prices in domestic market are state-administered procurement programs, inconsistent import and export policies and global market trend. Global market natural rubber price rose in anticipation of future supply tightness and shortage of some grades, because Australia forecasted to decline NR production due to serious drought. The prices have reached to Rs.18, 807per quintal as on June, 2012. Demand for Rubber is most evenly distributed over the years but due to absence of production in monsoon, supply shrinkage occurs. By June / July the production becomes normal, but lingering rains last for a couple of months. During rains tapping of rubber trees disrupted and production falls. Resultantly prices would rise at that time, unless there is an acute economic depression or similar negative factors. The following table explains that the Annual average rubber price (Rs. 100 kg) in domestic market from 2001-02 to 2014-15. Table 5.4 Annual Average Rubber Price (Rs. 100 kg) in Domestic Market from 2001-02 to 2014-15. RSS 1 RSS 2 RSS 3 RSS 4 RSS 5 EBC 2X Latex ISNR 20 2001-02 3472 3369 3247 3109 2961 2643 138 4105 2756 Year

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2002-03 3958 3859 3761 3621 3402 3122 2003-04 5170 5072 4972 4814 4649 4576 2004-05 5942 5842 5742 5571 5401 5272 2005-06 6404 6303 6203 6068 5865 5717 2006-07 9324 9191 9089 8783 8551 8338 2007-08 9509 9390 9290 9006 8772 8514 5039 3339 6202 4670 7064 5310 7163 5808 10868 8454 10460 8654 2008-09 11146 11046 10946 10775 10547 10076 11977 10387 2009-10 10318 10183 10081 9756 9473 8889 11756 9080 2010-11 15015 17352 17245 16908 16405 15570 11207 15865 2011-12 23096 22667 22201 21668 21238 20478 13349 20967 2012-13 19399 19053 18724 18439 18002 17484 12174 17625 2013-14 18522 17865 17162 16880 16355 15485 11956 15897 2014-15 15228 15045 14523 14115 13493 10218 8237 12287 Total 167682 167397 164128 160192 155479 146124 140954 151177 Source : Rubber Board, 2015. The table 5.4 exhibits that the Annual average rubber prices (Rs. 100 kg) in domestic market from 2001-02 to 2014-15. Price of latex increased with the increase in the price of RSS grades. Latex price increased by more than 200 percent in the last ten years. In 2001-02, price of latex per 100 kg was Rs. 4105, whereas by 2011-12 the price reaches to Rs. 13349 per 100 kg. By 2014-15 the price of latex declined to Rs. 8237 per 100 kg as shown in the above table. Same trend is visible in the case of ECB2x and ISNR 20 where the price reached to record levels by 2011-12 where the price stood at Rs. 20478 per 100 kg in the case of ECB2x and Rs. 20967 per 100 kg of ISNR20. Later, similar to RSS grade rubber price, the price of ECB2x and ISNR 20 declined almost by 40 percent by the end of 2014-15. .5.6 INTERNATIONAL RUBBER SCENARIO The first International Natural Rubber Agreement was signed in 1979 under the auspices of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and then renegotiated in the mid-1980s (1987 Agreement) and during 1994-1995 (1995 Agreement). The Agreement was managed by the International Natural Rubber organization (INRO), headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The 1979 Agreement had as member’s seven exporting countries accounting for about 95 per cent of world exports and 25 importing countries. The objective of the 1979 agreement was to reduce excessive price fluctuations around the trend in rubber market prices. Exporting countries also stressed the need to support prices at levels considered remunerative to producers and to help to stabilise export earnings and increase these earnings based on expanded export volumes. Basic differences between importing and exporting countries for NR led to wide divergences in negotiations, particularly as regards price level. 5.7 IMPORT OF NATURAL RUBBER: India had been an importer of NR as result of the faster growth of the rubber goods manufacturing industries in the country. NR can be imported to India free of licence from 1 April 139

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 2001. As per provisions of GATT 1994, each WTO member country is bound to limit its import duty ceiling, called bound rate, which was fixed by member’s country. The bound rate committed by India is 25 per cent for all forms of NR except for NR latex. In India had been an importer of NR as result of the faster growth of the rubber goods manufacturing industries in the country. The consumption has been growing at a faster rate than production during the last few decades as a result of captive domestic market supplemented by the protectionist policies pursued by the government. Import of NR in India during the period from 2001 to 2005 was permitted only through the customs port of Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. EXPORT OF NATURAL RUBBER: Export of NR during the crucial period has not only helped to reduce the excess stock of NR in the country, but also has been instrumental in maintaining the demand-supply balance in spite of the surge in imports. The main factors contributing to the buoyancy in export were the export promotional measures adopted by the government of India and the prevalence of relatively higher NR price in the international market since June 2003. The following table explains the Month wise export of NR from our country from 2002-03 to 2012-13. 140

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 5.5 Month wise export of Natural Rubber Million tonnes Month 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 APRIL JUNE 3928 MAY 2697 2917 JULY 3738 AUGUST 1200 SEPTEMBER 6159 OCTOBER 6814 DECEMBER 4740 JANUARY 4264 1180 1244 1898 3046 541 7197 1278 2013 1714 897 972 301 476 732 3590 5989 6722 9901 8497 6311 10226 6451 10028 6386 NOVEMBER 5872 10814 9879 12440 6346 6337 7317 9613 4670 992 FEBRUARY 4676 10410 1735 5850 MARCH 8306 13740 2358 8447 Std.Dev 4609 1954 5915 4372 3845 6152 4076 4136 8232 10534 11372 1981 973 941 656 721 3552 4712 3999 2164 4141 4105 4406 1416 1166 811 1246 5126 8053 14643 13076 4093 3999 3690 3159 9451 9299 3047 2314 200910 726 124 46 30 91 574 201011 864 149 55 36 109 682 201112 642 408 141 26 80 496 2012-13 708 460 159 39 98 559 3040 2274 2704 4969 5600 4101 4165 4952 5605 6317 3131 2563 3048 2219 2500 1475 2906 3455 2515 2834 2257 5556 6618 4818 5430 1962 6035 7178 5226 5890 TOTAL 55311 75905 46150 73830 56545 60353 46926 25090 29850 27145 30594 Mean 3810 3751 2487 2262 2549 4093 3810 864 642 Source : Secondary data. Rubber Growers Companion – 2015, NMCE 2014 708 141

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 The table 5.5shows that the month wise export of NR from 2002-03 to 2012-13, during the study period total value of exports are fluctuating. Export of Indian NR, which was little known in the overseas market until 2001-02, managed to get a break in the highly competitive global NR market. Export of NR from India rose from the low level of 6995 tonnes in 2001-02 to 75905 tonnes in 2003-04. In 2005-06 exports regained their lost ground rising to 73830 MT and 56545 MT of NR were exported during 2006-07, down from the previous year as the Indian prices were high compared to the prices in international market. The above table also shows that the output of Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for from 2002-03 to 2006-07 are 4609, 5915, 3845, 6152, and 4712 and the standard deviation values are 1954, 4372, 4076.7, 4136.8 and 3999 respectively. It signifies that there is a major change in the NR trade. During 2005 VAT has been introduced in Kerala, and that the state accounts for 92 per cent of the production. VAT had an impact in both exports as well as domestic trade. Export promotion measures such as identifying and encouraging potential exporters and overseas buyers, promoting buyers-sellers interaction through website and participation in international trade fairs are continuing. The main factors contributing to the buoyancy in export were the export promotional measures adopted by the Government of India and the prevalence of relatively higher NR prices in the international market since June 2003. Country wise Export of Natural Rubber From the ports, rubber was in the hands of mainly Brazilian, British and American exporters. Contrary to what Weinstein (1983) argued, Brazilian producers or local merchants from the interior could choose whether to send the rubber on consignment to a New York commission house, rather than selling it to a exporter in the Amazon (Shelley, 1918). Rubber was taken, like other commodities, to ports in Europe and the US to be distributed to the industries that bought large amounts of the product in the London or New York commodities exchanges. A large part of rubber produced was traded at these exchanges, but tire manufacturers and other large consumers also made direct purchases from the distributors in the country of origin. The following table explains that the Countrywise Export of Natural Rubber from 2010-11 to 2013-14. Table 5.6 Country wise Export of Natural Rubber ‘000 tonnes Country Thailand Indonesia Vietnam China 2010-11 2598 3130 950 84 2011-12 1406 4150 1613 29 142 2012-13 3121 2531 1023 14 2013-14 3664 2719 1076 13

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 India Malaysia Sri lanka Philippines Cambodia World Total Mean Std.Dev 20 1555 66 45 120 10233 18801 1880 3102 23 1273 26 40 100 9876 18536 1853 2833 15 1344 50 38 60 8673 18555 1856 3040 25 1380 36 32 86 9743 20651 2065 3004 Source: rubber growers guide 2015 The table 5.6 examine that country wise export information of Natural Rubber during the study period from 2001-02 to 2013-14 , the leading export market of Indian Natural rubber are China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Spain, Pakistan, Singapore and Nepal. In 2011-12, export of NR decreased to 27,145 MT as compared to 29,851 MT in 2010-11. Sri lanka’s share in the total export increased to 24.4 per cent with 6,623 MT as compared to 2,619 last year. Malaysia continued to remain the second largest export destination for India at 4,273 MT and 15.7 per cent share as compared to 6,555 MT and 22 per cent share. The above table also shows that the output of Mean and Standard Deviation. It is noted from the table that the mean value for country wise export of NR from 2010-10 to 2013-14 are 1880, 1853, 1856, and 2065, and the standard deviation values are 3102, 2833, 3040 and 3004 respectively. SOCIO ECONOMIC STATUS OF NATURAL RUBBER DISTRIBUTORS IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT Distribution of sample respondent by channel of distribution A channel of distribution is an organized net-work or a system of agencies and institutions which, in combinations, perform all the activities required to link producers with users and users with producers to accomplish the marketing task. Marketing channels are routes through which agricultural products move from producers to consumers. The length of the channel varies from commodity to commodity, depending on the quantity to be moved and the form of consumer demand and degree of regional specialization in production. The following table explains the channel of distribution of rubber Table 5.7 Channel of distribution Categories Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Village traders 37 (52.9) 26 Co-op society 18 (25.7) 12 143 Commission agent 10 (14.3) 9 Wholesalers 5 (7.1) 3 Total 70 (100) 50

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Thovalai Total (52) 16 (53.3) 79 (52.6) (24) 7 (23.3) 37 (24.6) (18) 4 (13.3) 23 (15.3) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The table 5.7 explain that, Out of the 150 respondents, 53 per cent are making their distribution through village traders. Other 25 per cent respondents make their distribution through co-operative society, 15 per cent respondents make their distribution through commission agents and rest of 7 per cent respondents make their distribution through wholesaler. It clearly reveals that majority of the respondents make their distribution through village traders because of respondent received input materials, advance loan from the village traders. Distribution of sample respondent by sources of finance Finance plays a pivotal role in all walks of life. The rubber producers need poor adequate money for the production and marketing of rubber. The financing sources of respondents are given under the table. Table 5.8 Sources of finance Sources Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Bank Agent 25 17 (24.3) 11 (22) 3 (10.0) 31 (20.6) (35.7) 18 (36) 13 (43.3) 56 (37.3) Private Others 19 9 (27.1) 12 (24) 12 (40.0) 43 (28.6) (12.9) 9 (18) 2 (6.7) 20 (13.3) Total 70 (100) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table shows that 37 per cent of the respondents use agent funds, 28 percent of the respondents use private funds, 21 per cent of the respondents use bank funds and least 13 per cent of the respondents use other funds like SHGs. Most of the respondents are using non-banking funds, they are feels that charges high rate of interest and plantation property as a security. Among the Kalkulam taluk, 36 per cent of the respondents use agent funds, 27 percent of the respondents use private finance, 24 per cent of the respondents use bank finance and least 13 per cent of the respondents use other funds like SHGs. 144 (6) 3 (10.0) 11 (7.2) (100) 30 (100) 150 (100)

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Among the Vilavancode taluk, 36 per cent of the respondents use agent funds, 24 percent of the respondents use private finance, 22 per cent of the respondents use bank finance and least 18 per cent of the respondents use other finance like SHGs. Among the Thovalai taluk, 43 per cent of the respondents use agent finance, 40 percent of the respondents use private finance, 10 per cent of the respondents use bank finance and least 7 per cent of the respondents use other finance like SHGs. Distribution of Sample Respondent facing Problems in Storage Storage is an important function of marketing. It is the process of holding preserving goods from the time they are produced until they are needed for consumption or use. Storage protects commodities from deterioration. Moreover, surplus is carried over for future consumption during the period of scarcity. The following table explains the problems relating to storage of rubber sheets. Table 5.9 Taluk Loss of Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total weight 8 (11.4) 7 (14) 6 (20.0) 21 ( 14) Lack of storage facility 10 (14.3) 8 (16) 5 (16.7) 23 (15.3) Problems in Storage Problems Deterioration in quality 8 (11.4) 7 (14) 2 (6.7) 17 (11.3) Package 15 (21.4) 11 (22) 7 (23.3) 33 (21.9) Labour Charges 20 (28.6) 12 (24) 8 (26.7) 40 (26.6) Grading 9 (12.9) 5 (10) 2 (6.7) 16 (10.6) 70 (100) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data. Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total The above table inferred that, the respondents face six problems for storage of rubber sheets viz loss of weight, lack of storage facility, and deterioration in quality, package, labour charges, and grading. Most of the respondents are feels that labour charges are high. Out of 150 respondents, 40 opined that the labour charges is high, 33 face package, 23 face lack of storage facility, 21 face loss of weight, 17 face deterioration in quality, and 16 face grading problems. In Kalkulam taluk, has 70 respondents ,20 opined that the labour charges is high, 15 face package, 10 face lack of storage facility, 9 face grading, 8 face loss of weight and deterioration in quality problems. In Vilavancode taluk, has 50 respondents ,12 opined that the labour charges is 145 Total

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 high, 11 face package, 8 face lack of storage facility, 7 face loss of weight and deterioration in quality, and least 5 face grading problems. In Thovalai taluk, has 30 respondents ,8 have opined that the labour charges is high,7are face package,6 face loss of weight,5 lack of storage facility, 2 respondents faced deterioration in quality and grading problems Distribution of Sample Respondent Facing Problems in Marketing The activities of rubber marketing system connected with the movement of rubber from the primary producers to the ultimate consumers. There are distinct differences in the primary marketing system in the small holding and the estate sectors. Marketing of rubber is noted for its unique characteristic features. It is basically different from the marketing of any other agricultural rubber product. The marketing of natural rubber in Kerala is commonly adopted by small holders and estate sectors. Small holders and estate sector sell natural rubber to traders or dealers through a marketing channel. The following table explains the problems in marketing. Table 5.10 Problems in Marketing Problems Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Transport tation 8 (11.4) 6 (12) 3 (10) 17 (11.3) Labour charges 12 (17.1) 10 (20) 5 (16.7) 27 (17.9) Package 5 (7.1) 4 (8) 3 (10) 12 (7.9) Comp etion 15 (21.4) 10 (20) 8 (26.7) 33 (21.9) Comm/ Broker 10 (14.3) 9 (18) 4 (13.3) 23 (15.3) Storage/ taxes 16 (22.9) 9 (21) 6 (20) 31 (20.6) license Total 4 70 (5.7) 2 (4) 1 (3.3) 11 (7.3) (100) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source: Computed from Primary data. Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total From the table 5.10, it is known that the rubber distributors are facing numerous problems. The basic problems include transportation, labour charges, package, competition, commission/brokerage, storage/taxes, and license. Above 20 per cent opinion that the competition and storage /taxes problems, 18 per cent of the respondents feel that the labour charges are high, 15 per cent respondents feel that the commission/brokerage problem, 11 per cent respondents are feel that the transportation charges, and remaining 7per cent and 7 per cent respondents are feel that the package and license problems respectively. Distribution of Sample Respondent by Sales through Wholesalers Whole sales are industries handling 500 to 1000 tonnes of raw rubber per month wholesales may mainly from middle level dealers, big dealers and estate holders. They in turn dispose of their 146

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 rubber directly to big industrial consumer like M.R.T. ltd, Appollo tyre etc., the following table explain the reasons for rubber sheets are sold through the wholesalers. Table 5.11 Reasons for Rubber Sheets sold Through Commission agents Reasons Taluk Kalkulam Vilavancode Thovalai Total Credit facility 19 (27.1) 9 (18) 5 (16.7) 33 (21.9) Long term practice 11 (15.7) 8 (16) 4 (13.3) 23 (15.3) Prompt payment 9 (12.9) 9 (18) 5 (16.7) 23 (15.3) Low risk 13 (18.6) 9 (18) 3 (10.0) 25 (16.6) Better prices 4 (5.7) 5 (10) 7 (23.3) 16 (10.6) Provide inputs 14 (20.0) 10 (20) 6 (20.0) 30 (20.0) Total 70 (100) 50 (100) 30 (100) 150 (100) Source : Computed from Primary data. Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the percentage to total. The above table shows that the Sale of Rubber Sheets through Commission Agents. The reasons are credit facility, prompt payment, long term practice, low risk, better prices and provide inputs. Majority of the respondents wish to sell their rubber sheets for getting advance money (credit facility) from the commission agents. Out of 150 respondents 22 per cent of the respondents have preferred for credit facility, 20 per cent respondents preferred for provide inputs, 17 per cent respondents have preferred for low risk, 15 per cent respondents preferred for long term practice and prompt payment and least 11 per cent respondents preferred for better prices. PROBLEMS IN TRANSPORTATION (MARKETING) Transportation is the physical means, to move the goods and people from one place to another place. It is an essential component in the wheel of marketing. Natural Rubber cultivators had to face some problems in transportation of cultivation. The problems related to Non-available of vehicle, Quality adulterations, more hire charges, improper material handling, Poor conditions of road, Taxability, and Loading /Unloading. The cultivators are asked to rank the seven problems according to their preferences. Table 5.12 Problems in Transportation (Marketing) : Factors Non-available of vehicle Quality adulterations More hire charges Improper material handling Poor conditions of road 147 Total Mean score 1140 3.8 1040 975 980 940 3.47 3.25 3.27 3.13 Rank I III V IV VI

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Taxability Loading /Unloading 845 1140 2.82 3.80 VII I Source: survey data: From the above table shows that, ranking the problems of transportation in marketing of rubber sheets. It is clear that loading/unloading and Non-available of vehicle were the main problem faced by the cultivators, which secured 38 per cent mean score. Then, quality adulterations was the third most important problem and secured 34 per cent mean score, Improper material handling was the fourth problem and secured 33 per cent mean score, More hire charges was the fifth problem and secured 32 per cent mean score, Poor conditions of road was the sixth problem and secured 31 per cent mean score, taxability has secured 28 per cent was the least problem faced by the cultivators. Problems in marketing cost for Rubber sheet distribution The Rubber Sheets are produced by the cultivators and sold either directly to the manufactures (ultimate consumers) of rubber products or through local merchants, whole sales and co-operative marketing society. Basically, the following problems in marketing cost for distribution of Rubber Sheets like transportation, Storage, Loading/Unloading, Commission charges, Incidental charges, Taxability, Abnormal loss and Cheated by middleman. Table 5.13 Cost of Marketing Per month (in Rs.) Factors Transportation Storage Loading/Unloading Commission charges Incidental charges Taxability Abnormal loss Cheated by middlemen Total Mean score 1135 970 1070 1030 990 940 935 1120 3.78 3.23 3.56 3.43 3.3 3.13 3.11 3.73 Rank I VI III IV V VII VIII II Source: survey data: The above table shows that, ranking the problems in marketing cost for Rubber sheet distribution. It is clear that first rank was received for transportation (M=3.78) per cent, followed by second rank towards cheated by middlemen (M=3.73) , third rank towards loading/unloading (M=3.56), fourth rank towards commission charges (M=3.43), fifth rank towards incidental charges (M=3.43), sixth rank towards storage (M=3.23), seventh rank towards taxability (M=3.13), and finally the eighth ranks for abnormal loss (M=3.11). Reasons for sales through commission agents A cultivator, who has to borrow heavily for a growing crop, often mortgages it in advances. So that, the sale of produce, which is hardly more than a mere formality takes, almost in his fields 148

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 as soon as the rubber is conversion into sheets. In all cases where sheet rubber is not formally mortgaged it has to be disposed of almost immediately after cultivation in order to pay off the debt. The following table explains the Reasons for sales through commission agents. Table 5.14 Reasons Credit facility Long term practice Prompt payment Low risk Better prices Provide input No storage charges Reasons for Rubber sheets sales through commission agents: Total 1138 1126 1022 1076 744 695 786 Mean score 3.79 3.75 3.40 3.58 2.48 2.31 2.62 Rank I II IV III VI VII V Source: survey data: From the above table shows that, ranking the Reasons for sales through commission agents. It is clear that first rank was received for credit facility (M=3.79) per cent, followed by second rank towards long term practice (M=3.75), third rank towards low risk (M=3.58), fourth rank towards prompt payment (M=3.40), fifth rank towards no storage charges (M=2.62), sixth rank towards better prices (M=2.48), and finally the seventh rank towards provide input. (M=2.31). Factors for getting information about price of rubber sheets To fix a price for a product this is based on quality, brand, size, colour and package of the product. The fundamental factors influencing NR prices are demand and supply while all other factors have indirect effects. Rubber growers have been received better prices in the world, especially at the farm gate. Low prices of tuber due to fall in industrial activity, economic showdown and recession in the country and outside. The following table explain that the Factors for getting information about price of rubber sheets. Table 5.15 Factors for getting information about price of rubber sheets. Factors Radio/TV Friends & relatives Local traders Commercial agents 380 260 180 104 27 250 180 165 120 90 Newspapers Website Others 200 200 180 140 80 H.S S.M M V.P Poor T.score Mean Rank 475 280 195 60 40 410 240 168 92 56 580 256 138 80 34 550 280 180 70 25 1050 966 1088 1105 951 805 800 210 193 218 221 III IV II I 191 V 161 VI 160 VII Source: survey data From the above table shows that, ranking the Factors for getting information about price of rubber sheets. It is clear that, most of the respondents were receive information from newspaper, 149

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 which secured 1105 total score, local traders rank second, Radio/TV rank third, friends and relatives rank fourth, commercial agents rank fifth, website rank sixth and others rank seventh. Others include rubber board, mobile etc., It signifies that the majority of the respondents are educated; they can easily accessing the price movement of rubber sheets in the domestic market as well as international market. Maintenance cost of rubber sheet Cost means all expenses for cultivation of rubber. It includes operation cost, land tax, cost of vessels, sheet drying, fuel expenses, electricity charges etc., and the following table explains that the Maintenance cost of rubber sheets. Table 5.16 Cost Operation cost Land Tax Cost of vessels Sheet drying Fuel expenses Electricity charges Maintenance cost of rubber sheet Total 1021 806 958 1029 992 841 Mean score 3.40 2.68 3.19 3.43 3.30 2.80 Rank II VI IV I III V Source: survey data: From the above table shows that, ranking the Maintenance cost of rubber sheets. It is clear that first rank was received for sheet drying (M=3.43) per cent, followed by second rank towards operation cost (M=3.40), third rank towards fuel expenses (M=3.30), fourth rank towards cost of vessels (M=3.19), fifth rank towards electricity charges (M=2.80), and finally the sixth rank towards land tax. (M=2.68). Table 5.17 Reasons No storage cost No Transportation cost Credit facility Easy sale Prompt payment Reasons for rubber sheets sales through wholesales Total Mean score No Commission charges Better prices 1048 824 1097 1135 1010 918 932 3.49 2.74 3.65 3.78 3.36 3.06 3.10 Rank III VII II I IV VI V Source: survey data: From the above table shows that, ranking the Reasons for sales through wholesales. It is clear that first rank was received for No Transportation cost (M=3.78), followed by second rank towards No storage cost (M=3.65), third rank towards No commission charges(M=3.49), fourth 150

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 rank towards credit facility (M=3.36), fifth rank towards prompt payment (M=3.10), sixth rank towards easy sale (M=3.06), and finally the seventh rank towards better prices (M=2.74). Table 5.18 Problems faced by the distributors of rubber sheets Problems Storage Market Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Thovalai taluk Chisquare 10.057 11.143 Sheet purchase 21.200 Transportation 20.600 P value .074 .133 .033 .002 Chisquare .133 .079 .043 P value Chi4.240 13.000 6.400 11.120 11.320 13.000 8.933 12.933 square 8.400 P value .269 .299 .257 .044 Ho: There is no significant relationship between distributors and the problems in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. H1: There is significant relationship between distributors and the problems in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. The above table shows output of the Chi-square value, degrees of freedom, and significant value. In order to analyse the significant relationship between distributors and the problems in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. There are four problems such as Storage, Market, Purchase of sheets, and Transportation have been identified and tested with the tool of Chisquare. It is also observed from the table that there is significant relationship between distributors and the problems faced by the distributors in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district, since the P value are for transportation in three taluks like Kalkulam, Vilavancode and Thovalai .002, .043 and .044 respectively, thus it is concluded that there is a significant relationship between the distributors and the problems in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. It is found that the P value is lesser than .05, thus the alternative hypothesis H1 is accepted, and other problems like storage, sheets purchase and market, also shows that the P value is greater than .05 per cent , then the hypothesis is rejected but the null hypothesis is accepted. Socio economic status of NR distributors in Kanyakumari district (One sample test) at 5% level of significance There are so many factors determine the socio economic status of NR growers and distributors such as Type of Distributors, Age, Education, Marital Status, Income, Family Size, Nature of Family, Time Spent, Types of Subsidy, Area of Market and Sources of Finance. To ascertain the significant difference between the NR distributors based on three taluks in Kanyakumari district and their socio economic status, “T” statistics is administered. The following table shows results of Mean differences and t-test. 151

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Table 5.19 Socio economic status of NR distributors in Kanyakumari district Kalkulam taluk Vilavancode taluk Factors Type of distributors Age Education Mean difference “t” statistics Mean difference “t” statistics Mean difference Thovalai taluk “t” statistics 1.75714 15.401 1.78000 13.196 1.80000 9.567 3.28571 19.560 2.84000 17.210 3.00000 13.654 2.60000 15.228 2.88000 14.307 2.53333 11.082 Marital status 3.92857 16.535 3.56000 14.004 3.50000 10.147 income Family size 2.67143 18.080 3.02000 15.672 2.48485 12.424 Nature of family Types of subsidy 3.24286 14.007 3.54000 13.192 3.76667 10.823 3.80000 20.067 3.56000 15.804 3.40000 11.129 Time spent 4.15714 16.929 3.92000 14.088 4.00000 11.569 3.67143 14.648 4.14000 14.712 4.26667 10.146 Marketing area 4.05714 19.285 4.30000 16.906 4.06667 12.796 Sources of finance 2.81429 21.788 2.98000 18.889 1.96667 13.320 Source: Primary data As seen in the above table the highest mean difference of the Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk and Thovalai taluks are 4.15714, 4.30000 and 4.26667 respectively. The highest mean differences are registered for the variable types of subsidiaries for two taluks namely Vilavancode and Thovalai and time spent for Kalkulam taluk. Regarding “t” statistics, the significant difference among the socio-economic status of distributors in rubber sheets is identified for the variables viz Type of distributors, and their Age, Education, Marital Status, Income Family Size, Nature of Family, Time Spent For Business, Types of Subsidy, Area of Marketing, and Sources of Finance as the respective “ t” statistics, are significant at 5% level. Paired sample correlation Ho: there is no significance between Types of distributors and problems in storage of rubber distribution in Kanyakumari district. Ho: there is no significance between Mode of transportation and problems in transportation of rubber distribution in Kanyakumari district. Ho: there is no significance between Mode of sales and problems in marketing of rubber distribution in Kanyakumari district The Paired-Samples T Test procedure compares the means of two variables for a single group. The procedure computes the differences between values of the two variables for each case 152

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 and tests whether the average differs from 0. The following table explains that the three paired sample correlation from the distribution of NR in Kanyakumari district. Table 5.20 Paired sample correlation Pairs 1. 2. 3. Factors Types of distributors and problems in storage Mode of transportation and problems in transportation Mode of sales and problems in marketing Kalkulam taluk .792 .867 .866 Vilavancode taluk .835 .888 .870 Thovalai talluk .808 .859 .858 Source : primary data The above table explains the relationship between types of distributors and problems in storage applied in paired sample correlation for three taluks in Kanyakumari district. In Thovalai taluk shown results as .808 higher positive correlation likewise in case of mode of transport and problems in storage, mode of sales and problem in marketing also shown as higher positive correlation are .859 and .858 respectively. It signifies that in three taluks, namely Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk , the paired sample correlation values reflects highly positive correlation, since the results found is above 0.5 per cent, all pairs are significant. Marketing available for rubber producer The following five channels were identified in the marketing of natural rubber. i) Grower ii) Grower - Manufacturer - Local Merchant iii) Grower - Local Merchant - Manufacturer iv) Grower - Wholesaler v) Grower - Co-operative society - Manufacturers - Wholesaler - Manufacturer - Manufacturer SUMMARY Rubber passes from the production center through different channels to the manufacturer.The rubber sheet produced by the cultivators are sold either directly to the manufactures of rubber products who are the ultimate consumers or through local merchants, whole sales and growers co-operative marketing society. This chapter deals with domestic and international trade, price, consumption, balance of trade etc.,. The majority of the respondents make their distribution through village traders because the respondents received input materials and advance loan from the village traders. 153

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 154

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 CHAPTER - VI FINDINGS AND SUGGESTIONS 6.1 INTRODUCTION In this chapter, at attempt has been made to recapitulate the major findings of the present study and it has cited a few suggestions for eliminating the problems associated with the rubber cultivation and marketing of natural rubber in the study area. In the previous chapters various aspects of the rubber growers have been explored and explained. The entire study was based on both the primary and the secondary sources of information. It was covered in three Taluks - Kalkulam, Vilavancode, and Thovalai in Kanyakumari based on three categories of rubber growers namely small, medium and large size of land under rubber cultivation. This study reveals that the production and marketing of rubber in Kanyakumari District in purely explorative in nature. The findings, suggestions and conclusions arrived at are listed below: 6.2 MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY 6.2 (A) Findings related to secondary data • India is currently the sixth largest producer of NR in 2015 with a share of 4.7 percent of world production. During 2015, the output in main producing countries viz; Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam increased, whereas production in China and India decreased during 2015. Global SR production during 2015 was 14.46 million tonnes as against 14.179 million tonnes in 2014, registering an increase of 2.0 percent. There is a highly positive correlation between total world rubber production of main countries and the study period from 2001 to 2015. • Consumption of natural rubber increased from 7333 tonnes in 2001-02 to 12137 tonnes in 201415, except in 2009-10. Consumption of synthetic rubber also increased from 10253 tonnes in 2001-02 to 19984 tonnes in 2014-15, except in 2008-09. Increase in the economic development in the emerging economies like China and India had played a significant role for the increase in the consumption of rubber both natural as well as synthetic rubber. The highest mean score of Consumption of Natural rubber in the world for the study period registered is 1168 tonnes in 2014. • The total production of natural rubber in the country and RSS grades of rubber sheets obtain the value is 0.999. It is a highly positive correlation. • The total rubber area is increased and automatically affects the other variables like tapped rubber area, production and average yield/ha also increased. In the year 2013-14 and 2014-15 155

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 the rubber area were decline due to the natural calamities (heavy rain) also affect the total production are 844000 tonnes and 645000 tonnes respectively. • The tapped area of rubber has gradually increased from 400713 hectares in 2001-02 to 521653 hectares in the year 20014-15. The significant difference among the variables of NR in India are identified Total Area (ha), Tapped Area (ha), Production (Tonnes) and Average yield/ha (kg) as the respective “T” statistics are statistically significant at 5 per cent level of significance. • During the study period, from 2001-02 to 2014-15 all the years except 2002-03, 2003-04, 200506, 2013-14 and 2014-15, the balance of trade is negative, because of imports exceeds exports. • As per the country wise export information of Natural Rubber during the study period from 2001-02 to 2014-15, the leading export market of Natural rubber are China, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Spain, Pakistan, Singapore and Nepal. In 2011-12, export of NR decreased to 27,145 MT as compared to 29,851 MT in 2010-11. • Rubber cultivation in India has been traditionally confined to the hinterlands of southwest coast, mainly in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Kerala and Tamil Nadu together constitute the traditional rubber growing regions in the country. Kerala alone contributes 89 per cent of the total rubber produced in India and an area of 534,228 ha is under rubber. Tamil Nadu contributes another 3 per cent of the total natural rubber production. • The North‐Eastern region contributes upto 5 per cent of the total production, while Karnataka contributes 3 per cent. An area of 113,685 ha is covered by rubber plantations in the north‐eastern region. • The major crop in and around Kanyakumari is rubber. The paddy area and coconut garden have been converted into rubber estates. Because the climatic condition and soil conditions in Kulasekharam and Thovalaitaluk are suitable for good quality of rubber, water which is very important for the growth of rubber is available in these areas throughout the year. 6.2 (B) Findings related to cultivation or growers: • The majority of the sample growers in the Kanyakumari district belong to the age group 30-40.The calculated value is (35.4) more than the table value is (3.84). Hence, the hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, there is significant relationship between the age wise classifications in the three selected taluks. • The total respondents are 300 of which male respondents are 70 per cent (210) and female respondents are only 30 per cent (90). The Majority of the respondents are male. They are dominating NR cultivation. The calculated value is (48.6) more than the table value (3.84). Hence, the hypothesis is rejected. Therefore, there is significant relationship between the sex wise classifications in the three selected taluks. 156

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 • In Kalkulam taluk 130 respondents are educated, and as a few as 10 are illiterate. In Vilavancode taluk 98 respondents are educated and remaining 12 are illiterate. In Thovalai taluk 43 respondents are educated, and the rest of them are illiterates. • The Majority of the respondents in the three taluks are married, and they have more responsibilities and strong influences as to do anything for their earnings. • A maximum of 66 per cent (200) respondents are full time cultivators and other 44 per cent (100) comes under the category of part time cultivators. It reveals that the Majority of the respondents are full-time cultivators and their earnings solely depend on NR cultivation. • The study brings to important factors that determine the preferences for NR cultivation by the growers. It includes family cultivation/ availability of land for cultivation, unemployment, climatic condition, self-interest/ attractive price and easy marketability. • Only a few of, 65 respondents (22) are using non-organic fertilizers for the cultivation of natural rubber. • This study exhibits that among the total distribution, 43 per cent (130) have fruits, 21 per cent (62) of the respondents have spinach, 19 per cent (59) have vegetables and at least 17 percent (50) have flowers as intercrops to rubber trees. It is understood that the majority of the respondents have preferred intercrops as fruits. • The majority of the respondents feel that the quality of rubber produced in Kanyakumari district is one of the best qualities in the world and the yield per acre is also very well compared to the other parts of India. • The findings reveal that 46.5 per cent of the (140) respondents have used smoke houses, 26 per cent (77) have used sun drying, and 18 per cent (53) use partial sun drying and the least, 10 per cent (30) use kitchen drying for rubber sheets. A minimum number of respondents are using kitchen drying for rubber sheets, because they have less than 2 acres of land for cultivation of rubber. • This study examines that the 48 per cent (145) are tapping the trees by professional tappers, 22 per cent (66) by all, 20 per cent (59) by their family members and 10 per cent by him/her. • It could be understood that the majority of the respondents are using plastic cups, which are easily available in the market and have a long usage and quite durable. • The Majority of the respondents are feels that lack of availability of skilled labour and tappers. These factors might be affecting the production of rubber. Hence, in modern day’s new technology adopted for tapping and planting rubber trees. So the awareness and training should be given to them. 157

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 • The major problems encountered by the rubber producers in the local market. The most important problem is the lack of infrastructure facilities for purpose of keeping up stocks of smoked rubber sheets and fresh latex. This handicap has provided itself to be major drawback for the rapid growth of rubber production in Kanyakumari District. The rubber producers who are marginal in size can become better. When they are given proper storage facilities to store the latex which they are produce every day. • The lower profitability on fresh land rubber can be attributed to the enormous cost involved in preparing and planning rubber trees in such areas. • Rubber production being highly expensive the annual saving per producers is very low. Because of this fact, that the producers are in untapped areas have borrow huge amount of money. • The largest single expenditure among the rubber producers is an manuring the purchase of tools and instruments another major expenditure related to the production of rubber expenses of labour shows the tendency of increase in the amount with the increase in the area of production. • Kendall’s co-efficient of Correlation method is used for the relationship between varieties of cultivation and factors for NR growers in Kanyakumari district. This study reveals that all the factors have the results of variables which are more than 0.5 except own machine, shows the results 0.395, 0.316, and 0.273 respectively, hence it is a highly positive correlation. • The ANOVA value is found to be significant at five per cent level. This shows that the regression equation framed is a good fit. The ANOVA value of Kalkulam taluk indicates around 152.757, Vilavancode taluk indicates that the value is 222.164 and Thovalai taluk indicates that the value is 98.897 of the variations in sources of the NR production due to the selected variables. 6.2 (C) Findings related to marketers/distributors: 1. Most of the respondents (79 per cent) are using non-banking funds, as they feel that they charge high rate of interest and plantation property as a security. 2. Out of the 150 distributors, 40 have opined that the labour charge is high, 33 face packages, 23 face lack of storage facility, 21 loss of weight, 17 deterioration of quality, and 16 face grading problems. 3. Only a few distributors (7per cent) are of the opinion that the package and licence problems are common in distribution of NR in Kanyakumari district. 4. The findings of the study relate to the Sale of Rubber Sheets through Commission agents. The reasons are credit facility, prompt payment, long term practice, low risk, better prices 158

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 and availability of inputs. Majority of the respondents are feeling to sell their rubber sheets for getting advance money (credit facility) from the commission agents. 5. Ranking method is used for the problems in transportation. It is clear that loading/unloading and Non-availability e of vehicle were the main problems faced by the cultivators, which secured 38 per cent mean score. Quality adulteration was the third most problem that secured 34 per cent mean score, and taxability has secured 28 per cent was the least problem faced by the cultivators. 6. Ranking method is used for the problems in marketing cost for rubber sheets. It is clear that the first rank was received for transportation (M=3.78) per cent, followed by second rank towards cheated by middlemen (M=3.73), and finally the eighth ranks for abnormal loss (M=3.11). 7. Ranking method is used for the Reasons for sales through commission agents. It is clear that the first rank was received for credit facility (M=3.79) per cent, followed by second rank towards long term practice (M=3.75), third rank towards low risk (M=3.58), and finally the seventh rank towards provide input. (M=2.31). 8. Ranking method is used for theMaintenance cost of rubber sheet. It is clear that first rank was received for sheet drying (M=3.43) per cent, followed by second rank towards operation cost (M=3.40), third rank towards fuel expenses (M=3.30), fourth rank towards cost of vessels (M=3.19), fifth rank towards electricity charges (M=2.80),and finally the sixth rank towards land tax. (M=2.68). 9. Ranking method is used for the Reasons for sales through wholesales. It is clear that first rank was received for No Transportation cost (M=3.78), followed by second rank towards No storage cost (M=3.65), and finally the seventh rank towards better prices (M=2.74). 10. There is a significant a relationship between distributors and the problems faced by the distributors in the marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. Since the P values for transportation in three taluks, Kalkulam, Vilavancode and Thovalai are0.002, 0.043 and 0 .044 respectively. Thus it is concluded that there is significant relationship between the distributors and the problems in marketing of rubber sheets in Kanyakumari district. 11. It is found that the P value is lesser than .05, thus the alternative hypothesis H1 isaccepted, and other problems like storage, sheets purchase and market, also shows that the P value is greater than .05 per cent , then the hypothesis is rejected but the null hypothesis is accepted. 12. To ascertain the significant difference between the NR distributors based on three taluks in Kanyakumari district and their socio economic status, “T” statistics is administered. The highest mean difference of the Kalkulamtaluk, Vilavancodetaluk and Thovalaitaluks are 4.15, 4.3 and 4.26 respectively. 159

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 13. Regarding “t” statistics, the significant difference among the socio-economic status of distributors in rubber sheets is identified for the variables viz Type of distributors, and their Age, Education, Marital Status, Income Family Size, Nature of Family, Time Spent For Business, Types of Subsidy, Area of Marketing, and Sources of Finance as the respective “ t” statistics, are significant at 5per cent level. 14. The paired sample correlation values reflect highly positive correlation, since the result found is above 0.5 per cent in three taluks, namely Kalkulam, Vilavancode, and Thovalai. 15. The rubber market in Kanyakumari District is dominated mostly by the retailers. They are assisted by brokers and intermediaries. They are operated mostly in black market, operations, and in order to avoid the excise duty imposed in latex, the wholesaler, who are deals in their rubber products, are marketed in metropoliticion cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Calcutta. 6.2 (D) Findings related to NR Tappers: 1. The majority of the sample tappers in the study area belong to the age group 30-40.The study shows that the new generation is averse to rubber tapping. Out of 150 sample tappers only 10 per cent come under the age group, below 30. 2. The incomes from agricultural sector and labour sector of the tappers are ever on the rise. This is based on talukwise classification in Kanyakumari district, raised in their sources of income. While, in the Kalkulamtaluk, the income group share of different sources is as follows: tapping 47 per cent, agriculture 17 per cent, animal husbandry 24 per cent, casual labour 3 per cent and drivers 9 per cent. 3. The majority of the respondents are tapping the trees in smallholdings, and some of them prefer to tapping the trees in Arasu rubber board, because they enjoy more monetary and non-monetary privileges like education scholarship, medical facility, headlight, monthly salary received, and housing facility etc., than the others. 4. The term ofremuneration paid to the tappers includes monthly basis, daily/weekly basis, rate per tree basis, and both rate per tree and non-rate per tree basis. Basically, they follow two methods of payment to the tappers, piece rate of tree and non-piece rate of tree.The majority of the NR tappers are received payment on the basis of piece rate per tree tapping, because in Kanyakumari district NR cultivation in smallholdings. 5. Educational status of the family members as a whole and that of tappers has been analysed. More than 92 per cent of the sample respondents are literate. Out of the 150 respondents 8 percent are illiterate. Nearly 18 per cent have dropped their study at the primary level, whereas 26 per cent discontinued study at secondary level, 14 per cent tappers are 160

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 completed higher secondary and remaining 30 per cent tappers are graduate. It signifies that majority of the tappers are literate in the study area. 6. An average time of 3 hours is taken for tapping; 1 hour is taken for collection of latex and 0.45 hour is taken for rolling. Almost all the cases drying and smoking of the sheets are done by the owner of the land himself. In some cases the owner himself may manage all allied works of tapping. 7. The majority of the NR tappers received payment of their advance money on weekly basis , because they receive remuneration calculated tapping per tree in Kanyakumari district. 8. Only 46 per cent of the tappers felt that the functioning of the Government support is poor. Among them 31 are in Kalkulam taluk, 25are in Vilavancode taluk and 13 are in Thovalai taluk. 9. Male tappers dominate the field of tapping. Female tappers are interested more in estate tapping because there is no gender discrimination regarding wage or allowances. 10. Only a few tappers are in the study area facing monkey bite, snake bite, elephant destruction etc., 11. In Kalkulam taluk, majority of the tappers receive low charges or low wages, and nearly 20 per cent of the tappers are facing the problems like non-seasonal cultivation of rubber in Vilavancode and Thovalai taluks . 12. A number of tapping families enjoy financial support for constructing houses and improving residential facilities from Housing Board and other governmental and non- governmental institutions 13. Out of 150 respondents, 57 per cent of the respondents are getting advance money from the government or owner of the garden and the remaining 43 per cent of the respondents are not getting advance money from the government or owner of the garden. 14. A five point questionnaire was framed to assess the opinion regarding the Training programmes attended by tappers in Kanyakumari district. It was found that the majority of 26 per cent of the tappers have expressed satisfied and moderate the Training programmes. 15. A least of 16 per cent of the tappers felt satisfied and very poor in the nature of the assistance of rubber board in Kanyakumari. 16. The experiences of NR tappers in Kanyakumari district and its classification into three taluks are as below: Out of total respondents, 82(70 per cent) are having the experiences of above 10 years. 17. Only the least number of the tappers, 34(25 per cent) have earned a monthly income of below Rs. 20000/--. 161

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 18. General health condition of women tappers is very poor because of their continuous engagement in household works or tapping from dawn to desk. Moreover, the gravity of occupational physical problems such as back pain, chest pain, leg pain etc. is high among them 19. The majority of the respondents feel satisfied about the tapping of the rubber trees because skilled tappers are available there. 20. The entire co-efficient of correlation is found significant at 5 percent level. Among the independent variables, repayment, remuneration, advanced received, sources of finance and sources of income, and the dependent variables include age, and sex, education and experience are found to have positive influences. It implies that there is a close relationship between dependent and independent factors of tappers in Kanyakumari district. 21. The paired sample correlation applied for 10 pairs of variables, their values reflect a highly positive correlation, since the results found is above 0.5 per cent in three taluks, namely Kalkulam taluk, Vilavancode taluk, and Thovalai taluk,Thovalai taluk has shown results as 0.964 higher positive correlation likewise Vilavancode taluk and Kalkulam taluk have shown as higher positive correlation that are 0.907 and 0.934 respectively. 22. Regarding the calculated value of all the pair’s t-test is greater than 0.01 levels. So the null hypothesis is accepted at 1 per cent level. It can be concluded that there is no significant differences. In Kalkulam taluk from pair 1 to pair 7 and pair 10 are accepted, and the remaining pairs 8 and 9 are rejected. In Vilavancode taluk, from pair 1 to pair 3, pair 6, pair 8 and pair 9 are accepted, there is no significant among the pairs, and remaining pair 4, pair 5, pair 7 and pair 10 are rejected. In Thovalai taluk, from pair 4 to pair 9, pair 2 is accepted, as there are no significant differences among the pairs, and remaining pair 1, pair 3, and pair 10 are rejected, because there are marked differences. 23. Out of the total sample tappers, 93 percent are full time tappers and 7 percent are farmers or small-scale businessmen rather than tappers. They engage in tertiary sectors also. 6.3 SUGGESTIONS OF THE STUDY 6..3 (A) Related to production  The gestation period of the plantation locks up the initial investment till the commencement of the economic yield. Shorter gestation period varieties of plants are to be evoked for quick recovery of returns of investment in order to attract more producers.  Unorganized sector is a major constraint in increasing the holders’ income. Enhancing the net farm income of rubber holdings is the prime factor. Intercropping is secondary source of income, rubber wood, honey from rubber, rubber seed oils etc., these earnings are also supported to them. 162

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5  Soil conditions are good and larger number of holdings of smoke size. The poor remain poor as they are unable to utilize their land source to the optimum. Climate change has its impact on plantation. High temperature causes about 15 per cent fall in rubber production.  The yield per hectare, which is the productivity of rubber plantation, is at this peak in Kerala, growing faster in Karnataka but slow movement in Tamilnadu.  Rubber planting of proven and improved hybrid varieties must be easily to the rubber growers through recognized nurseries at subsidized rates. It can be pest resistant and drought-tolerant. They must be suitable to cultivation in high attitudes and adoptable to different agro climatic conditions.  Empowering small holders with modern technology is a well said answer to increase productivity.  The growers must be educated on the scientific methods of intensive cultivation to increase productivity by periodical “Growers Meet” organized by government organizations and extension agencies using all the popular media of communication.  Liberal financial assistance can be made to the growers as crop loan and development loan through commercial banks and co-operative societies during their needy time.  Warehouses must be established in the production centre. The growers should stock their rubber sheets to sell it at an attractive price at the appropriate time.  The Government should introduce new varieties of rubber plants and new techniques of rubber production through the rubber board so that the employment conditions of rubber tappers would improve well.  The rubber cultivators are more interested in the timely caring of rubber trees because of the continuing higher prices for rubber sheets in the international market. They are also interested to replant and new planting of rubber trees in the district.  The growers who undertake replanting are allowed to raise other crops during the immaturity period, under the Replanting subsidy scheme of the Rubber Board. These inter- cropping is allowed with a view to providing the grower with a means of living, during the immaturity period.  A detailed study of the economics of intercropping will be effective to convince the replanting growers of the most advantageous combination of crops that could be grown in rubber areas.  The Government should also give adequate loans for the production of rubber as well as for the welfare of rubber tappers to improve their standard of living.  The growers have little, if any, access to modern plantation materials and do not follow agricultural practices that maximize crop. Furthermore, they often lack sufficient funds to fertilize. 163

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5  They are dependent on family labour, which limits the scale and productivity of the farming undertaken.  They tend to have poorer land and uncertain land tenure (early smallholders emulated activities on nearby estates and planted rubber trees on cleared forest land to which they did not have title). In subsistence agriculture, a formal title to the land may be rare, especially where the law refers to customs, and communities decide in practice on individual land occupancy (also, entitlement to land may be restricted by legislation).  As Rubber production being highly expensive the annual savings per producer is very low. Because of this fact the producers in the untapped areas have borrowed huge sum of money.  The largest single expenditure among the rubber producers is manuring the purchase of tools and instrument. Another major expenditure related to the production of rubber expenses of labour shows the tendency of increase in the amount with the increase in the area of production. 6.3(B) Suggestion related to tapping • Generally, tapping is a process of controlled wounding during which the shaving of bark is done. The important factors responsible for harvesting a rubber tree are the tightness of opening, slope and direction of tapping cut, skilled tapping is necessary for the good health of maintaining the longevity of its production period. From the detailed analysis about the rubber tappers in Kanyakumari district the following useful suggestions have been made. • Adoption of rain guarding is said to have raised the number of working days. As only below 70 per cent of tappers are working in rain guarded holdings. So early tapping can be done. Moreover, rain guards can be used to increase output by 11 per cent. • Most of the tappers (men) used liquor after tapping, so that a major share of their income is spent on it followed by travel, tea, coffee, chewing, smoking and playing cards. • The Government should encourage the involvement of female tappers through the Rubber Board in order to earn more income for the family. • Since most of the employees are above 45 years of age, there may not be non-availability of employees for tapping in future. The major sources of income are tapping, casual labour, agriculture and animal husbandry. Household have to depend on sources other than tapping for the betterment of their standard of living beyond a level. • The employer/tappers should be properly motivated by the owner of rubber estates to save more money in different savings mode. • The employee/tappers should give proper training to make them more efficient in order to get good yield as well as to protect the rubber trees. 164

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 • At present there is only scarcity of skilled tappers. But the trend shows that in the future the scarcity of tappers, whether skilled or unskilled will becomes chronic as the younger generations do not depend on tapping for their livelihood. • Social customs and traditions force not to engage in tapping. This is due to their lower family income, low educational standard and difficulty in getting other opportunities. • The rubber tappers should adopt the latest scientific methods in rubber latex collection recommended by the Rubber Board. • Above all the rubber estate owners should provide free medical, educational, accidental and all kinds of risk, aids to rubber tappers throughout the year for the welfare of these workers. • Tapping labourers of smallholdings will come under Minimum Wages Act. The average wage rate paid in the study area is not different from that fixed under the Minimum Wage Act. But incentive as over kilo rate for latex prescribed by the Act is unknown to the study area. • Majority of tappers belong to the age group 40 years and more. They are not averse to tapping. But it is very difficult to train them in scientific methods of tapping because of their inflexibility out of overage, personal bondage with growers and their belief that they are 'masters of tapping'. On the contrary, the younger generation is averse to tapping which is reflected by very low percentage of tappers below the age of 30 years. Hence proper steps should be taken by the Rubber Board to involve the younger people in Rubber tapping. • Tapping is considered a job of low social status, especially in the case of younger generation. So they are always trying to get out of the work on the earliest opportunity. Only due to the absence of suitable job opportunities they continue. But the long engagements in tapping, ignorance of other fields, lack of physical abilities etc. of the elderly tappers make them unsuitable for other opportunities 6.3 (C) Suggestion related to women tappers • In smallholdings of rubber the participation of women in tapping labour is very low. Along with the nature of crop, economic backwardness of family, social factors, the approach of rural households to tapping job, the wage rate etc. are also to be considered as determinants of demand and supply conditions of women tappers. • Male domination in tapping is obvious it is clear that the need for employing females arises under a condition of shortage of male labour as a result of their out migration and increase in demand for tappers. The participation of women in tapping seemed to be very low. • All the women tappers are above 40 years of age and married. It shows the approach of the society to the job of tapping. Social customs and strong traditions force unmarried women 165

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 not to participate in tapping. People believe that persons of low status, especially in the case of women tappers, carry out tapping. • Actually they enter the field of tapping only when it is indispensable for keeping the standard of living of the family even at the minimum level • As far as tapping is concerned, performance of women tappers is better than that of men. However, most of the growers do not prefer women for tapping mainly due to the peculiar nature of work. It is necessary to commence tapping early in the morning, as late tapping will reduce the exudation of latex. The suitable time for tapping prescribed by Rubber Board is 4 A.M to 7 A.M. In spite of their best efforts, women tappers cannot reach the holdings within this time, because they have to attend the household works before going for tapping 6.3 (D) General Suggestions related to the Government • It has been suggested that an awareness has to be created among the growers of rubber about disease of tree, tapping, availability of bank loan, market price, quality of rubber, export of rubber sheets etc., Awareness can be created by preaching on staging mini-dramas, conducting conferences, debates, symposiums, seminars and workshops. • A large number of rubber smallholders are subsistence farmers working in small family groups. They tend to face many problems, which minimize their chance of achieving good economic returns from their holdings. • Computerization of data should be made available in rubber board regarding the rubber status of Kanyakumari District. The government should introduce a package of programmers who can make available all kinds of credit and storage facilities to the dynamic business in Kanyakumari District. • Until the rubber plant reaches the stage of tapping Govt. should bear part of cost in preparing the land and planting the rubber Govt. schemes shall be made available only to those producers who are ready to spend sufficient time for production. • The government should come forward to offer encouragement to retails and whole sales who are interested in setting up rubber business in Kanyakumari District. By simplifying the formation involved in granting licenses to the rubber they can accomplish the task. • The government should introduce a package of programmers which can make available all kinds of credit and storage facilities to the dynamic business in Kanyakumari District. 6.3 (E) Suggestions related to marketing Indian rubber sheet may be more attractive than foreign consumer by personal selling and also by arranging stalls in international trade fairs. 166

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 • The government should come forward to offer encouragement to retailers and wholesalers who are interested in setting up rubber business in Kanyakumari District. By simplifying the formalities involved in granting licenses to the rubber they can accomplish the task. • Efforts should be made to keep proper records regarding the production and marketing of rubber for further research purposes. • Efforts should be made to start new industries based or rubber production. The availability of the raw materials will generate employment potential for the future generation and unemployed youth. • The prices for rubber sheets are prone to fluctuation. To put it simple stay constant even for a couple of weeks. They keep changing almost every day; this clearly indicates the swelling demand for rubber sheets and the inability of the local producers to cope with it. • In the problem which the rubber markets face is the lack of transport and communication facilities. Hence the need arises as how to connect the rubber producing centre’s of Kanyakumari District, with the marketing centers in the towns and cities far and near also with industries producing rubber products which are located for away from the latex producing centers of Kanyakumari District. The products of latex should be equipped with a better their monetary prospects in the years to come. • Since rubber producers have to wait for getting on income till the tapping starts they should be protected by the government through subsides and loans. Such help will also reduce the necessity to borrow huge amount of money at this stage from private finance. 6.3 (F) Suggestion related to Rubber Board • The Rubber Board may perform the functions of adviser to the Government by collecting the statistics of production, consumption and stocks from estates, dealers and manufacturers and make projections for future supply and requirements. • Active encouragement is given by the Rubber Board in the form of technical and financial assistance for processing rubber into better quality sheet through a network of extension offices. 6.4 CONCLUSION The production of rubber in Kanyakumari District stands far above the other district because 90 per cent of the rubber plantations are located in the district. Natural rubber is the backbone of commercial agricultural scenario of the state and rubber plantations has profound influence on the economic and social status of the people. This study was conducted with the aim of learning about the production and marketing of rubber in Kanyakumari District. It is helpful to the authorities 167

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 concerned as they will come forward to implement suggestions for solving the problems of rubber producers in Kanyakumari District. The government needs to attend to the problems of the Indian rubber producers. Rubber industry plays a major role in the economic development of the nation. Over 20 million families, mainly small growers, many with holdings of two hectares or less are dependent on rubber cultivation for their livelihood. The state support to the rubber industry needs to be regarded as a social security. Rubber industry is an economically vital sector based predominantly in rural areas of the country. Rubber market in 2016 continues to be driven by moves in other commodity prices and fluctuation in currencies. NR producing countries are working on short to long measures to ensure an orderly growth of rubber supply that matches emerging trends in the world demand. Production of Hevea rubber is sustainable if supported by continuous improvement in productivity, efficiency and quality. 168

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 169

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 Bibliography I. Books: 1. B.C.Sekhar, Rubber price come down commerce, November 6, 1992. 2. Block statistical hand Book 2005-2010. (Kuzhithurai) 3. District statistical hand book of Kanyakumari district 2005-2010. 4. Rubber board 2003, 2008. (Marthandam) 5. Rubber statistical vol 241 page 4,5,13,14 6. Burger,K.Haridasan, V.Smit, H.P.Unni, R.G. and Zant W (2000) The India Rubber Economy, History. 7. Gol (1999) Export and import policy 1 April 1997-31 March 2005. Ministry of commerce government of India-New Delhi P-65 8. SreeKumari B, Harihasan.V and Rajesh Karan’s (1990) from gate price of N.R. 9. Rubber statistical bulletin. International Rubber study group London. 10. Price movement of an agriculture raw material with Inventory adjustment-case of Indian National rubber in 1970 (mani-SC1994) 11. Kanniyakumari district Gazetteer Chennai, Gazetteers of India, and Government of Tamilnadu. 12. Indian Rubber Statistics Rubber Board Kottayam Vol.21, 1996.p.23 13. Indian Rubber Statistics Compiled from Indian Rubber Statistics, Rubber Board of India, 18. Indian Rubber Statistics, Vol.31, 2009 Rubber Board of India, Indian Rubber Statistics, Vol.31, 2009. 14. S.Mohankumar and TharianGeorge.K. Indian Rubber Products Manufacturing IndustryEvolutionary Dynamics and Structural Dimensions, Rubber Research Institute of India,1999. 15. Mahalingam N., "Rubber Industry Implication of Economic Reform Policies”, Kisan World, Vol. 31, No, 12, December 2004. 16. Tharian George K., Toms Joseph Joby Joseph, “Natural Rubber in Post-QRS Regime,” Economic and Political Weekly, Vol. XXXVII, No. 32, August 10, 2002. 17. KarthikakuttyAmma M. and et.al., The Rubber Board Bulletin”, Vol. 27, No.4, Kottayam, JuneAugust 2000. 18. Kohts R.L., and Uhi J.N., “Marketing of Agricultural Products”, Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., New York, 1980. 19. Krishna Kumar, A.K., Rubber Mooting Cost – Effective Measures, The Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture, Annual Hindu Publication, Chennai 1994. 20. 21. Impact of LPG on Natural Rubber and Rubber-based industries in Kanniyakumaridistrict - v. Janet Y. Selvia. Indian rubber statistics Compiled from Indian rubber statistics 22. Rubber Board of India, Indian Rubber Statistics, Vol.31, 2009 23. K.J.Mathew, “ promise of small holdings” Pg. no.45. 24. “Rubber industry companion“ Kuryan and Kuryan ., Phillips publishers Kottayam 1996. 25. India rubber statistical 22:9:11 26. Rubber Growers Guide-2014, Rubber Board, Kottayam, p.52. 27. Asian Rubber Handbook and Directory, 2012, pp.65-70. 28. 26th Annual Report, Arasu Rubber Corporation, 2014. JOURNALS: 1. Kissan world March 2008.vol35 No.03 AmbalMukharjee 2. Kissan world March 2000 vol 27 No.3 p.22 3. Kissan world De.4-2004 vol31.No.12(S.No.1318, S.No.19112)St.Joseph’s college (Autonomous)Thiruchirappalli. 4. E.Dharmaraj “Natural rubber production in India” Kissan world vol 9 No.12 Dec 1992 page 31. 5. T.Paul raj chatlenges of rubber industry in India “southern economist vol 35 No 15,16 Feb 1996 p.23. 6. R.Mohan Kumar “opportunities for Indian national rubber industry southern economist act 1 1997. 7. Lal Wilson “Rubber cultivation” Kissan world March 1999. 8. Rubber and its cultivation -2005 published by the rubber board(Govt of India , ministry of commerce) Kottayam. 9. Padmanabhan.S (1976), the forgotten history of land KumaranpathupkamNagercoil. 170

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 10. Aravindakahan Nair, K.A. “processing of the crop from plantations”, Rubber and its cultivation published by Rubber Board Kottayam. 11. BadarAlamIqbal, “More land for Rubber” commerce vol,141, No 3602, July 5, 1980. 12. Jacob Thomas. K “Steadty step in Rubber production”, Yojana, vol-37 No.9, Oct 31, 1993. 13. Kulkarni. D.S, “ Natural rubber science in India” Commerce, vol.145,No-3726, Nov 6, 1982. 14. Kuttaiah, “plantation operation a success”, Rubber Asia, Vol,7, No-2, Nov-Dec 1994. 15. Manu.M.Patel, “Nitrite Rubber Products, Indian know How”, commerce, vol.133 No 3414, Oct 30, 1988. 16. Mathew. J.J, “Rubber Plantation Industry A Success Story”, Kisan World. Vol.22, No.3 Mar 1995. 17. Mookerjee.K.N, “Heavy Demand calls for substantial Expansion”, commerce vol.117 No 2983, Jul 6, 1968. 18. Muthanna .G, Rubber Asia, Mar- Apr 1998 Vol.12, No.5. 19. Patel.N.N.K, “problem of planters plea for a high power committee”, commerce vol.cx111, No.2887, sep 3, 1996. 20. Rama Krishna Sarma, “Kerala plantation Industry”, Kisan world, Vol.6, Feb 5, 1991. 21. Sundar.R, “Rubber bounces vigorously”, Industrial Economist, volxxxv11.No-5, Aug 1995. 22. Goldar.B.N “Productivity growth in Indian industry New Delhi, Allied Publication 1986. 23. Rubber Asia July, August 2006 24. The Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture 25. 26. Indian Journal of Rubber Research Indian Journal of Natural Rubber Research 27. Rubber Industry and its Bright prospectus “The Hindu Feb.28, 2008”. 28. R.M. Stern “Malayan Rubber production inventory Holdings and the Elasticity of Export Supply”. Southern Economic Journal vol.31. No.4 April 1965. 29. “Rubber and its Cultivation” Rubber Board 1974. 30. “Rubber Malar” Rubber Board, Marthandam 31. “Rubber Tapping” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 32. “Rubber Processing” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 33. “Rubber Plantation” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 34. “Rubber Plantation Development scheme” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 35. “Rubber board bulletin” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 36. “ Labour welfare scheme of the Rubber Board 1999 - 2003” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 37. “Crop protection in Rubber” Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerela. 38. “Rubber Plantation Insurance ” – National Insurance Co., New Delhi. Reports and other Publications 1. Aerostat joint Director of Agriculture Kanniyakumari District, 2007 2. Annual credit plan for Kanniyakumari District lead Bank cell IOB 2008-09 3. Annual report , District Rural development Agency Kanniyakumari 2000-2001 4. Census of India, District Census Hand book Kanniyakumari , The director of Census operations part XIII A and B Tamilnadu. 5. Credit plan for Kanniyakumari District Tamilnadu, Indian Overseas Bank, Madras. 6. Rubber Growers Guide 2008. 7. Rubber board, Indian Rubber Statistics Various issues , Kottayam 8. Grower’s companion, Kottayam Rubber Board publication 1988. 9. Rubber and its Cultivation, Kottayam Rubber Board publication 10. Rubber Board Commodity Note Rubber Kottayam Rubber Board publication 1990 11. Rubber Board , Rubber Board BulletionKottayam 2010 12. Rubber Board , Rubber news Kottayam Dec. 1990 and May 1999 13. Rubber Research Institute of India , National Rubber Agro Management and Crop processing, Kottayam 2005. 14. Monthly Rubber Statistical News Vol.74.No.12. May 2016. DISSERATIONS: 1. S.A.Ajai Kumar, Ecological Imbalances and patterns of Economic Development in Kanniyakumari District.(Unpublished M.Phil Thesis), M.S. University, Thirunelveli, Jul 1991, P.75 2. M.StarletHemaMalini, an economic study of Arasu Rubber Corporation. (Unpublished M.Phil Thesis) submitted to M.S. University Thirunelveli. 171

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 3. 5. 6. 8. 9. 11. Santhose.P“Cost of Cultivation and marketing of rubber on corranore District Kerala”, unpublished M.Sc(Agric) Thesis submitted to Kerala Agriculture University”, Thrissur 1985. 4. Ushadevi .T.V, “Technology Adaptations in rubber production in Kerala”, Unpublished PhD Thesis, M.G University, 1999. S.M. Nathiya, A production and marketing of rubber in Vilavancode Taluk. Unpublished M.Phil Thesis Submitted to M.S.UniversityTirunelveli. S.Sajeena. “A production and marketing of rubber in KanniyakumariDistrict‘ Published PhD thesis submitted by M.S. University Tirunelveli, June 2008.. 7. S. Uma Sheela Impact of plantations on Kerela’s Economy with special reference to Rubber Unpublished PhD Thesis, M.G University, 1999. Impact of LPG on Natural Rubber and Rubber-based industries in Kanniyakumaridistrict - v. Janet Y. Selvia. S.Mohankumar and TharianGeorge.K. Indian Rubber Products Manufacturing IndustryEvolutionary Dynamics and Structural Dimensions, Rubber Research Institute of India, 1999. 10. Dr.TharianGeorge.K, Joint Director (Economics), RRI India and Dr.R.K.Matthan, Polymer Consultancy Services Pvt.Ltd., Chennai for some of the inputs. John, K.K, “Impact of Economic Liberalisation and Globalisation on the Marketing of NR in India,” Ph.D Thesis, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, June, 2002, p.3. 12. B. Sankaran “ Production and Marketing of Tea in NilgirisDistrict“Published PhD thesis submitted by M.S. University Tirunelveli, June 2007. 13. MaliniHema M. (1993), “An Economic Study of Government Rubber Corporation- A Government of Tamil Nadu Undertaking”, 14. Paul Raj (Dec. 1996), “Challenges of Rubber Industry in India”, Southern Economist, Volume 35, Issue No. 15-18, pp. 23-25, Bangalore. 15. 16. 1Ezeeth. P. (2002) “Cost and Profitability Consideration relating to Natural Rubber in Kanyakumari District”, Unpublished Dissertation to ManonmaniamSundaranar University, Tirunelveli. Jeba. J. (2002), “An Economic Study of Rubber Production in Kulaseharam Town Panchayat in Kanyakumari District’, Unpublished Dissertation to ManonmaniamSundaranar University, Tirunelveli. 17. Mathew.K.J, (2006) “focus on cost efficiency” the Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture 2006 p.85. 18. Shankar Meti, , D.V.K.N. Rao, N. Usha Nair and James Jacob, “Distribution of Natural Rubber Cultivation in Relation to Soil And Landscape Attributes In India”, RB Kerela. 19. Shanley, P., DA Silva. F.C. and Macdonald. T. (2011) “Brazil’s social movement, women and forests: a case study from the National Council of Rubber Tappers”, p.234 20. Rubber Research Institute of India, Rubber Board, Kottayam, Kerala, India 686009E-mail: meti@rubberboard.org.in2. Senior Scientist, IGFRI, Jhansi, UP, India 284003 21. JACOB Thomas, K., “Rubber plantations as a Professional”, The Hindu Survey of Indian Agriculture, Annual Hindu Publication, Chennai, 1992, p.99. 22. N. Suthendren. “Entrepreneurship in Fishnet Manufacturing Units- A study with special reference to Kanniyakumari” Published PhD thesis submitted by M.S. University Tirunelveli, April 2012 WEB SITE 1. Automotive Tyre Manufacturer Association. www.atmaindia.com 2. www.rubber board.org.in 3. www.tnagriculture.gov.in 4. www.indiamart.com 172

ISBN: - 978-93-88936-09-5 173

DBFli F M.Com, SET, Ph.D, MBA ` • Dr.B.Felix Francy, M.Com, SET, Ph.D, MBA teaching and research. She has published 32 research papers in referred journals and has authored a book has visited two countries Malaysia and Dubai. Professor of Commerce in St.John’s College, Palayamko Dr.B.Felix Francy is serving as the Assistant kottai. She has 22 years of experience of ok. She has reviewed two text books. She Dr.B.Revathy, M.C • Dr.B. REVATHY is currently Professor and om, SLST, M.Phil, B.Ed, Ph.D, DCA, MBA, Head, Department of Commerce, Manonmaniam Sundar has contributed 160 chapters of edited volu Doctorate in Commerce under her guidance an m ar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. 100 articles in peer reviewed international an journals and 20 in national journals. In additioion, she has published 23 articles in UGC care listed journals and 11 articles in Scopus journals. She es. She has authored 10 books and has edited 6 books and 3 journals. 20 scholars are awarded She has to her credit more than 30 years of teaeaching and research experience. She has published nearly Singapore, Malaysia and Srilanka. She has acted as a resource/chair person in numerous seminars and member of reputed international journals. She d 67 scholars are awarded Master of Philosophy in Comme e is the recipient of three awards. About the Book the Indian economy. Rubber is an important industrial raw material. It tyres. It provides employment to a sizeable population in its agricultural thus contribute substantially to economic prosperity in rubber growing a material. Rubber is an equatorial crop, but under special conditions, i India was the first country in the east to undertake commercial cultivation of natural rubber. Now, India is one among the top ten rubb r producing countries. Rubber plays a crucial role in s of products ranging from toy balloons to giant size e al sector, and a sizeable number makes their living from processing, transporting and marketing rubber goods. Rubber plantations areas. The Indian rubber goods manufacturing industry heavily depends on natural rubber which accounts for 80% of the total raw t provides the principal raw material for manufacturing over 35000 varietie t is also grown in tropical and subtropical areas. It requires moist and hum temperature above 25 degree Celsius. It is mainly grown in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Garo hills of Meghalaya. Crying Tree '. The reason is that when it is cut off with knife or sharp kitchenware and daily living such as disc, bowl, bottle and simple shoe. such manner several times; they could then get softly underneath shoe Rubber had long been a historical plant. Since Columbus had discovered America in 1495 (525 years ago), Red Indian, ancient tribe of S ols, its natural latex automatically comes out as a tear of tree. Red Indian m to brought them some pieces of Rubber from Para City located on the basin of Amazon River, South America. While staying at home, found that easily. Therefore, name of 'Rubber' or 'Para Rubber' was then recognized by and well-known to public worldwide. The way they made simple shoe was to immerge their foot to natural latex, l for use as wearing a comfortable sock. Before group of European adventu h f South America, called it ' Caoutchoue '. Meaning is ' made the use of Rubber tree and natural latex for their lifted up their leg and waited until it dried. Followed turers leaving South America for hometown, people when they erased pencil trace from paper, it came out Life of people in civilized countries is bound with Rubber from birth to death. Rubber is a significant economic plant. Rubber tree, inclu of use, increase income and employment opportunity for agriculturists. At present, agriculturists are proud to have their plantation, increasing in t after, save cost and time for its growth. Not like other plants, Rubber p o roducts have long been grown with its best outcome year after year. Kozhikode. Years back people used to plant coconut in their fields. Bu Kottayam District have produced good varieties of rubber plants giving India and provides daily income to the growers as well as the worker industrial factories and commercial industries. the world and the yield per acre is also very high compared to other part about 25000 tonnes. Rubber plantations are located in the northern part technique adopted for the survey is purposive sampling. Out of 550 tot the rubber tappers, and 150 respondents are selected from the distributor a The sample for the study comprises of natural rubber growers, distributors and rubber tappers in Kanyakumari District. The quality of rts of Tamilnadu. In Kanyakumari District, natural rubber is grown in about t of the taluks namely Kalkulam, Vilavancode and Thovalai. The total numbe otal sample of the study, 300 respondents are selected from the rubber prod ors. Thus, equal importance is given to the production and marketing of natu economic conditions of the rubber tappers, rubber producers and the m rketers of the rubber products. The study has further identified the factors i study has discussed the problems faced by the rubber producers and marketability of the rubber products. rubber produced in Kanyakumari is one of the best in 35000 hectares and the estimated annual production is er of samples chosen for the survey is 550. Sampling 5 distributors of rubber. Finally it has offered suggestions to increase the p ucers (cultivators), 150 respondents are selected from ral rubber. The present study has examined the socionfluencing the rubber production and marketing. This productivity of rubber products and to enhance the Title :- RUBBER CULTIVATION IN INDIA : PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION & TRADE Au hor :- Dr. B. FELIX FRANCY,Dr. B.REVATHY ISBN :- 978-93-8893 Price : 450/t Two important states for rubber plantation include Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala accounts for most of the rubber plantations in India ut today people plant rubber trees instead as it gives a daily income. Rese r ng a very good yield. This plant which was brought to India during the Britis rs. With present rapid growth, most of countries are improving and expand arches made at the research centre at Puthuppally, in ish rule has spread all over Kerala and other parts of ding their business in the field of agriculture, heavy ia and major districts include Kottayam, Quilon, and uding seeds and plantation are beneficial for all kinds otal every year. Plantation is easy to control and look t umid climate with rainfall of more than 200 cm and merce. She has visited three countries viz., nd conferences. She is an editorial board

1 Publizr

Index

1. 1
2. 2
3. 3
4. 4
5. 5
6. 6
7. 7
8. 8
9. 9
10. 10
11. 11
12. 12
13. 13
14. 14
15. 15
16. 16
17. 17
18. 18
19. 19
20. 20
21. 21
22. 22
23. 23
24. 24
25. 25
26. 26
27. 27
28. 28
29. 29
30. 30
31. 31
32. 32
33. 33
34. 34
35. 35
36. 36
37. 37
38. 38
39. 39
40. 40
41. 41
42. 42
43. 43
44. 44
45. 45
46. 46
47. 47
48. 48
49. 49
50. 50
51. 51
52. 52
53. 53
54. 54
55. 55
56. 56
57. 57
58. 58
59. 59
60. 60
61. 61
62. 62
63. 63
64. 64
65. 65
66. 66
67. 67
68. 68
69. 69
70. 70
71. 71
72. 72
73. 73
74. 74
75. 75
76. 76
77. 77
78. 78
79. 79
80. 80
81. 81
82. 82
83. 83
84. 84
85. 85
86. 86
87. 87
88. 88
89. 89
90. 90
91. 91
92. 92
93. 93
94. 94
95. 95
96. 96
97. 97
98. 98
99. 99
100. 100
101. 101
102. 102
103. 103
104. 104
105. 105
106. 106
107. 107
108. 108
109. 109
110. 110
111. 111
112. 112
113. 113
114. 114
115. 115
116. 116
117. 117
118. 118
119. 119
120. 120
121. 121
122. 122
123. 123
124. 124
125. 125
126. 126
127. 127
128. 128
129. 129
130. 130
131. 131
132. 132
133. 133
134. 134
135. 135
136. 136
137. 137
138. 138
139. 139
140. 140
141. 141
142. 142
143. 143
144. 144
145. 145
146. 146
147. 147
148. 148
149. 149
150. 150
151. 151
152. 152
153. 153
154. 154
155. 155
156. 156
157. 157
158. 158
159. 159
160. 160
161. 161
162. 162
163. 163
164. 164
165. 165
166. 166
167. 167
168. 168
169. 169
170. 170
171. 171
172. 172
173. 173
174. 174
175. 175
176. 176
177. 177
178. 178
179. 179
180. 180
181. 181
182. 182

Home