From idle plots to tapping trails: rubber boom lifts hopes for stakeholders in Keralam
Rising rubber prices have revitalized the plantation sector in Kerala, India, leading to the reopening of abandoned plots and increased demand for leasing. Share-tapping arrangements are also becoming a popular model for reviving production.
Why it matters
This economic shift highlights how commodity price fluctuations can directly impact local agricultural employment and land use.
From idle plots to tapping trails: rubber boom lifts hopes for stakeholders in Keralam left Rubber tapping in progress at a plantation near Mundakayam. VISHNU PRATHAP The Hindu https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/ce6zig/article71588843.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/80687_15_10_2026_19_5_38_1_BUGET2022_RUBBERSUBSIDY11.JPG VISHNU PRATHAP Kottayam, Kerala, 15/10/2026. A record rally in rubber prices has brought several abandoned plantations in central Travancore back to life. Tapping in progress at a plantation near Mundakayam.photo by vishnu prathap With rubber prices at a record high and demand from tyre manufacturers driving gains, the plantation sector is eyeing a revival. While demand for leased plantations has risen sharply, share-tapping arrangements are also gaining ground. KOTTAYAM For years, low prices and a shortage of tappers left rubber plantations across central Travancore overgrown and abandoned. Now, a sharp price rally is bringing them back to life, with tapping knives returning to work, neglected plots being cleared and even half-acre holdings finding takers.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in