Income enhancement through group processing and marketing of natural rubber: A study of rubber producers’ society (RPS) in Kerala

The present study analyzed the role of Rubber Producers’ Society in income enhancement of small holder rubber farmers. Formation of RPS has improved the economic and social status of smallholders. Members of RPS got benefits in terms of lesser cost of cultivation by 14 per cent compared to non-members. They incurred lesser processing cost and cost of production too. The group processing facilities ensure better quality produce and thereby higher price. The gross return was around 10 per cent higher for members compared to non members. Return per rupee of cost was 2.68 for members whereas it was only 2.08 for non-members. Major factors which influence gross return are tree population, labour, output and institutional membership.