Date:21/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/12/21/stories/2005122100771002.htm

Back Rubber cultivation

This is with reference to the article `Kerala's rubber revolution' (Business Line, December 19).

The Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), celebrating its golden jubilee, can take credit for the part it has played in the State's rubber revolution. But it is a continuous process.

In a State like Kerala, where land is dear, there is a possibility that the area of rubber cultivation could give way to other development activities. So, it is especially important to educate and help small-holders. The emergence of part-time farmers and dependence on hired labour is a welcome trend.

Though Kerala is the major producer of natural rubber in the country, it is unfortunate that there is no factory worth the name engaged in processing and production of goods (like tyres) to use it. With the State being in development mode it is time to promote this area.

A. Jacob Sahayam

Thiruvananthapuram

Letters to the editor and contributions can be sent by e-mail to: bleditor@thehindu.co.in

Pascal Lamy

Director-General of the WTO