<h4>Introduction to National Rubber Policy 2019</h4><p>The <strong>National Rubber Policy 2019</strong> was introduced by the <strong>Ministry of Commerce & Industry</strong> to address critical issues within India's rubber sector.</p><p>This policy signifies a concerted effort to bolster the domestic rubber industry, ensuring its sustainable growth and supporting the livelihoods of numerous <strong>rubber growers</strong>.</p><h4>Basis and Objectives of the Policy</h4><p>The foundation of the <strong>National Rubber Policy 2019</strong> lies in the strategic recommendations of a dedicated <strong>Task Force</strong>.</p><p>This Task Force identified both <strong>short-term</strong> and <strong>long-term strategies</strong> aimed at mitigating the various problems faced by <strong>rubber growers</strong> across the country.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Policy Origin:</strong> Based on strategies identified by a <strong>Task Force</strong> on the rubber sector.</p><p><strong>Primary Goal:</strong> To alleviate challenges faced by <strong>rubber growers</strong> in India.</p></div><h4>Key Provisions of the Policy</h4><p>The policy encompasses a wide array of crucial areas essential for the holistic development of the natural rubber sector.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Comprehensive Scope:</strong> The policy covers aspects from cultivation to trade, ensuring an integrated approach.</p></div><ul><li><strong>New Planting and Replanting:</strong> Initiatives to expand and rejuvenate rubber plantations.</li><li><strong>Support for Growers:</strong> Measures to provide assistance and resources directly to <strong>rubber farmers</strong>.</li><li><strong>Processing and Marketing:</strong> Strategies to enhance efficiency in rubber processing and improve market access.</li><li><strong>Labour Shortage:</strong> Addressing challenges related to availability of skilled labour in the sector.</li><li><strong>Grower Forums:</strong> Promoting collective action and knowledge sharing among cultivators.</li><li><strong>External Trade:</strong> Policies concerning the import and export of natural rubber.</li><li><strong>Centre-State Integrated Strategies:</strong> Fostering collaboration between central and state governments for effective implementation.</li><li><strong>Research, Training, and Rubber Product Manufacturing:</strong> Boosting innovation, skill development, and value addition.</li><li><strong>Export Promotion:</strong> Encouraging the export of rubber and rubber products.</li><li><strong>Climate Change Concerns and Carbon Market:</strong> Integrating environmental sustainability and leveraging carbon credit opportunities.</li></ul><h4>Implementation and Support Mechanism</h4><p>The implementation of the policy is spearheaded by the <strong>Rubber Board</strong>, a statutory body under the <strong>Ministry of Commerce & Industry</strong>.</p><p>The specific scheme driving these efforts is the <strong>Sustainable and Inclusive Development of Natural Rubber Sector in the Medium Term Framework (MTF)</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Implementing Body:</strong> <strong>Rubber Board</strong></p><p><strong>Implementation Scheme:</strong> <strong>Sustainable and Inclusive Development of Natural Rubber Sector in the Medium Term Framework (MTF)</strong></p><p><strong>Period:</strong> <strong>2017-18 to 2019-20</strong> (Note: The policy itself is 2019, but it leverages an ongoing MTF).</p></div><h4>Developmental Activities under the Policy</h4><p>The <strong>MTF</strong> framework facilitates several key developmental activities crucial for the growth and stability of the rubber sector.</p><ul><li><strong>Financial and Technical Assistance:</strong> Providing aid for planting and cultivation practices.</li><li><strong>Supply of Quality Planting Materials:</strong> Ensuring access to high-yielding and disease-resistant rubber clones.</li><li><strong>Support for Grower Forums:</strong> Strengthening farmer organizations for better coordination and resource utilization.</li><li><strong>Training and Skill Development Programme:</strong> Enhancing the capabilities of <strong>rubber growers</strong> and workers.</li></ul><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Understand the <strong>multi-faceted approach</strong> of the policy, covering economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Note the role of the <strong>Ministry of Commerce & Industry</strong> and the <strong>Rubber Board</strong>. Questions can link this to agricultural policies or sustainable development.</p></div>