The rubber industry in India has more than a century old history. It started with the plantation of rubber on commercial-scale in 1902 at Thattekkad in Kerala, the southern state of India. The natural rubber produced then was mostly exported. Rubber product manufacturing industry was started later in 1921 with the establishment of Dixie Aye Rubber Factory in Kolkata.
 

The rubber industry passed through the perils of Great Depression, but the World War made rubber dearer, leading to occupation of the rubber growing countries by the Axis powers and also to intensive research on synthetic alternatives both by the Allies and the Axis powers.
 

During post-war period, the rubber industry in India gained the patronage of the Government, and both plantation and manufacturing industry achieved spectacular development. Reclamation of rubber which was initiated during the War also developed into a robust industry in India. The rubber industry in India is unique as the domestic production and consumption supports each other and moves in tandem.
 

With globalization, the commercial boundaries of nations have waned and world trade has evolved into a single market. Competitiveness both in cost and quality has emerged as passwords to prosperity. Technical knowledge attained strategic superiority as it is the key to both cost and quality. That together with development of linkages through networking is essential for excellence in business.
 

The India Rubber Meet is an attempt to cater to this need of the rubber industry. When the idea of a pan-industry meet was mooted, all sectors came forward to behold it with fervour as is evident from the list of organisers. It includes rubber growers - large and small, - rubber processors, tyre and non-tyre rubber product manufacturers, government and non-government promotional bodies, trade organisations, research and skill development institutions and the media dedicated to rubber industry. The industry has a large workforce and millions of customers who will also be benefited by the Meet, which aims at the progress of the rubber industry.
 

India Rubber Meet 2014
 

The first edition of India Rubber Meet, an event proposed to be held annually, is scheduled on 20th and 21st February, 2014 at Kochi in Kerala State. Experts from across the world have consented to speak on prospects of rubber industry and allied topics in the Meet. Eminent technocrats and management professionals of all major rubber growing countries and rubber industry stakeholders will lead the panel discussions.
 

Participation in this mega event provides opportunity to acquire an immense treasure of knowledge on contemporary issues in the industry. A grand gala dinner and a cultural programme are arranged on 20th February. It will also be an opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of Kerala, particularly, Kochi – the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’. Alappuzha the ‘Venice of East’ and Kumarakom, the ‘Backwater Paradise’ are about an-hour drive from the venue.
 

Registration to India Rubber Meet 2014 is open now. You are advised to register early as the number of delegates is limited and the registration shall be on first come, first served basis.