Kerala Increases Rubber Support Price from 180 to 200 Rupees

Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant relief to farmers and workers, the Kerala government has announced a series of welfare measures, including an increase in the support price for rubber, despite what it described as the financial constraints imposed by the Union government. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the decisions reflect the state’s continued commitment to its people even amid tightening central policies.

Under the Rubber Production Incentive Scheme, the support price for rubber will be raised from 180 rupees to 200 rupees per kilogram. The revised rate, along with other new benefits announced earlier, will come into effect on November 1, coinciding with Kerala Piravi Day. The Chief Minister said departments concerned have been directed to take immediate steps to implement the decisions.

The Cabinet also decided to clear pending pension arrears for workers under the Kerala Construction Workers Welfare Fund Board, requiring 992 crore rupees. The amount will be raised through loans to ensure timely disbursal.

Similarly, arrears under the Kerala Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Welfare Fund will also be settled. The government will provide an additional contribution of 24.6 crore rupees for this purpose within the current financial year.

Vijayan said the state government’s decisions demonstrate that even under financial pressure from the Centre, Kerala remains committed to protecting livelihoods and ensuring welfare benefits reach those who support and sustain the state’s economy.