The Rubber Board on August 21, 2026 issued guidelines recommending preventive and adaptive measures for natural rubber plantations in view of anticipated El-Nino conditions, which may result in delayed monsoon, below-normal rainfall, higher temperatures and prolonged dry spells. These conditions may cause soil moisture stress, increased pest and disease incidence, reduced latex yield and lower plantation productivity.
The guidelines recommend drought-resilient agronomic practices, including the use of suitable drought-tolerant clones such as RRII 208, RRII 430 and RRII 417; timely planting; maintenance of cover crops; contour terraces and rainwater infiltration structures; mulching; artificial shading and life-saving irrigation; fire breaks; controlled weeding; suitable intercropping and low-frequency tapping. Growers are also advised to adopt soil and moisture conservation measures to reduce plant stress and mortality.
For disease management, the guidelines prescribe preventive and remedial measures for Corynespora Leaf Fall, Powdery Mildew, Abnormal Leaf Fall, Colletotrichum Circular Leaf Disease and Brown Root Disease, including specified applications of Bavistin, sulphur, Copper oxychloride, Mancozeb and Tilt, as applicable. Timely implementation of these measures is intended to minimise the adverse impact of anticipated El-Nino conditions and sustain the productivity and resilience of natural rubber plantations.
