Assam: Centre’s mega initiative aims to transform northeast into rubber hub, Rs 1100 crore investment takes root

A large-scale rubber nursery has been established at Jirang in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district, under the supervision of the Rubber Board of India, marking a major milestone in the region’s agricultural and industrial development.

Strategically located near Guwahati, the nursery—named Omega Green Solutions—was set up in 2021 with a massive investment of Rs 1,100 crore, contributed by four of India’s leading tyre manufacturing companies. The initiative is part of a broader plan to strengthen domestic rubber production and reduce dependency on imports.

On Tuesday, a high-level delegation led by M. Basantaketan, Executive Director of the Rubber Board, and Arun Mammen, Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA), visited the nursery to review progress. They were accompanied by several officials and stakeholders from the rubber and tyre sectors.

During the visit, Basantaketan highlighted that the nursery has already created employment opportunities for hundreds of local youths and is serving as a catalyst for rubber cultivation in the region. He described the initiative as a transformative step for the rural economy.

ATMA Chairman Arun Mammen emphasized the broader scope of the project, stating that it is designed not only for Assam but for the entire Northeast region. The aim is to bring 3,000 hectares of land under rubber cultivation, which will significantly enhance the country’s capacity for self-reliant tyre production.

The rubber saplings from Omega Green Solutions are expected to mature and begin production within seven years, paving the way for sustainable income generation and self-sufficiency for the local population.

The success of this initiative is being seen as a golden opportunity for economic empowerment in the Northeast, potentially positioning the region as a key hub in India’s rubber economy.