According to the National Federation of Rubber Producers' Societies, key subsidies affected include those for planting and replanting for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years, along with the rain guarding and spraying scheme approved for 2024-25. Other Central government funded projects meant to be implemented through rubber producer societies have also been delayed. The federation alleged that mismanagement by Rubber Board officials had led to a loss of Rs. 54 crore intended for the 2022-23 special scheme for rain guarding, depriving farmers of crucial financial support.
Frustrated by the continuing disruptions in distribution of subsidies, rubber growers in the State are now up in arms against the Rubber Board demanding immediate intervention from the Central government.
The rain guarding assistance scheme for 2024-25, introduced to help farmers continue tapping during the monsoon season, has also failed to reach beneficiaries. "Many farmers, who had already ceased tapping and removed their collection cups, are still awaiting the promised assistance", pointed out Babu Joseph, general secretary of the federation.
Initially, subsidy distribution was disrupted due to technical issues with the portal. Even after these glitches were resolved, a clerical error by the Rubber Board caused further chaos, leading to misallocation of funds - some farmers received more than their entitlement, while others did not receive their full amount, resulting in additional delays. Rubber Board officials, however, claim that the issue has been rectified and that the remaining subsidies will be disbursed soon.
Farmers whose applications have discrepancies will still receive assistance, even if the financial year ends before their issues are resolved. Officials also say efforts are under way to recover excess payments made due to clerical mistakes. As per official records, the Rubber Board has received 7,551 applications for new planting and replanting subsidies for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years, covering a total of 5,355.53 hectares.