A day before the announcement of the 2024 general elections, the Rubber Board here on Friday announced an incentive of Rs. 5 per kg for the export of rubber sheets. The Executive Director of the Rubber Board, M Vasanthagesan, said the incentive aims to stabilize domestic prices and boost export opportunities.

"An incentive of Rs. 5 per kg for a short time for the scheme period for at least a quarter, up to June 2024, was announced to motivate the exporters. This is to set the domestic market right, in tune with the international market", Vasanthagesan said.

According to sources within the Rubber Board, this initiative is expected to benefit farmers significantly, as the policy is anticipated to drive up the prices of natural rubber by promoting exports of the product.

The announcement coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Pathanamthitta, a rubber belt, where he attacked the present LDF and previous UDF governments, accusing them of turning a blind eye to the struggles of rubber planters.