Board, which met to discuss issues related to rubber price demanded a ban on rubber import. If that was not possible the meeting called for temporary suspension of imports against advance license (duty free import).
Another suggestion raised in the meeting was to raise the import duty to 25 per cent without imposing any cap on the maximum limit. The members also urged the central and state governments to implement a scheme for joint procurement of rubber. It was also suggested that the purchase tax of 5 per cent levied by the Kerala government be reduced.
The meeting wanted maximum publicity to be given to measures such as road rubberisation, and steps to restructure the price stabilization fund so as to make it more beneficial to the growers.
Rubber Board chairman, Sheela Thomas, who presided over the meeting, informed the members that the sentiments expressed by them would be brought to the notice of the Central Government and the board would spare no efforts to take the maximum possible measures within its jurisdiction, in this regard.
Source: India Times
