KOCHI: As part of its efforts to bring about technological innovation in the field of tapping to address the problem of shortage of skilled tappers in the sector, Rubber Board has declared a cash award of Rs 5 lakh to those who develop a mechanized rubber tapping device.
Scarcity of skilled tappers is one of the major challenges faced by the rubber sector. Kerala accounts for over 90 % of the rubber production in the country. Unlike other crops, harvesting of rubber is a complex procedure and lack of technical skill will affect growth, yield and even the longevity of the tree.
According to Rubber Board spokesman, a mechanized tapping knife can even be handled by unskilled people and can make revolutionary changes in rubber harvesting. Leading rubber producing countries are making efforts to develop such a mechanized device. Malaysia, a major rubber producing country, had developed a mechanized tapping tool in collaboration with Japan. But it was not commercially feasible.
Rubber Board intends to take up research for further development and commercialization of any mechanized rubber tapping device invented, in collaboration with the inventor. The board feels that such a tool will help even unskilled persons to effectively take up tapping as career.