Rubber Board launches digital platform to address skilled tapper shortage
The INR Konnect platform aims to connect rubber growers with tappers to resume production on untapped plantations across the country.
The Rubber Board has introduced a digital platform called INR Konnect to bridge the gap between plantation owners and skilled tappers, according to The New Indian Express.
The Board organised an outreach programme on Tuesday at the Rubber Research Institute of India in Kottayam to familiarise stakeholders with the platform as part of the Union government’s ‘Reforms Utsav 2026’ initiative.
Rubber Board Chairman N Hari stated that an estimated 1.72 lakh hectares of rubber plantations in India remain untapped. He noted that while 7,56,110 hectares are ready for tapping, regular tapping is only carried out on 5,83,300 hectares.
Hari said the platform was developed to address issues such as the shortage of tappers, absence of owners, low productivity, and land fragmentation. He added that the digital tool also aims to attract the younger generation to rubber cultivation.
Rubber Board Executive Director M Vasanthagesan said the platform is expected to bring a major transformation to the production sector by serving as a common connection point for stakeholders.
INR Konnect is available as a website and a Play Store app. Interested parties can register using mobile numbers, with a one-time fee of Rs 100 for farmers and free registration for tappers.