DIMAPUR: Advisor for agriculture Mhathung Yanthan, MLA, has urged the Rubber Board of India (RBI) to make special provisions for adequate supply of rubber planting materials to farmers in Nagaland amid an acute shortage during the current planting season.
In a letter addressed to the executive director of Rubber Board, the advisor said rubber cultivation has emerged as one of the most promising and economically rewarding plantation activities in the state over the past several years.
He said the success and income generated by existing growers had encouraged many farmers to take up rubber plantation on a larger scale, while several existing growers were also expanding their plantation areas.
Yanthan pointed out that nearly 7,000 hectares of land under the jurisdiction of the Regional Office, Dimapur had already been prepared for fresh plantation this season. However, he said the Rubber Board was reportedly able to supply only about 25% of the total requirement of planting materials.
He said the shortage had caused “deep anguish, uncertainty and disappointment” among growers who had already invested substantial resources, labour and time in land preparation.
Stating that he represents one of the major rubber-growing constituencies in the state, Yanthan said farmers had appealed to him during his recent constituency tour to take up the matter with the competent authority.
He cautioned that failure to undertake plantation during the current season would not only result in the loss of an entire year’s effort and investment, but could also dampen the morale and enthusiasm of progressive farmers.
Highlighting the potential of rubber cultivation in improving livelihoods and contributing to the region’s economic growth, Yanthan appealed to the Rubber Board of India to consider the issue and prioritise Nagaland farmers during the ongoing planting season.
Tuesday, May 19, 2026