Economic Growth, Production Trends, and Constraints of Rubber Plantations in Assam

Natural rubber, a vital industrial raw material derived from Hevea brasiliensis, plays a significant role in global and national economies, particularly in the automobile sector. While Southeast Asia dominates global production, India ranks among the leading producers, with increasing emphasis on expansion in the northeastern region. Assam has emerged as an important rubber-producing state, with substantial growth in area and production between 2011 and 2022, largely driven by smallholder farmers. The study highlights that rubber cultivation in Assam has expanded significantly, with production increasing nearly fourfold, although employment generation has declined due to mechanization and improved efficiency. The sector is spatially concentrated in a few districts such as Karimganj, Goalpara, Karbi Anglong, Cachar and Kokrajhar reflecting regional disparities in development and productivity. Despite its growth potential, rubber cultivation in Assam faces several challenges, including climate variability, small and fragmented landholdings, lack of technical knowledge, price fluctuations, inadequate infrastructure, pest and disease attacks, labour shortages, and a long gestation period. The study emphasizes the need for balanced regional development, improved infrastructure, technological adoption, and institutional support to ensure sustainable growth of the rubber sector in Assam.