Agartala: Experts have recommended capping rubber plantation growth in Tripura at 170,000 hectares to protect biodiversity, soil health and water availability in streams and springs.The recommendation was made in a study conducted under the IGDC-CREFLAT Project across Dhalai, South Tripura, Gomati, Sepahijala and West Tripura districts. The team assessed rubber, mango, bamboo and other horticultural species for their ecosystem services, sustainability and economic potential.The report called for an immediate halt to the expansion of commercial rubber monoculture and urged the protection of existing natural forests. It also recommended diversified planting models, including agarwood, fruit trees and other agroforestry crops within rubber orchards.Prof Saudamini Das of the University of Delhi’s rubber study team said the social and environmental costs of rubber and other plantation crops, including mango, arecanut and bamboo, far exceed the costs borne by farmers.Dr Koushik Majumder, a biodiversity expert with the project, said malabar neem (Melia dubia) offered greater ecological, economic and livelihood benefits to farmers and landholders. He described it as a viable alternative to rubber monoculture for plantation development on patta land, where permitted under the Forest Rights Act.S Prabhu, CEO of the IGDC-CREFLAT Project, said the findings highlighted the need for an evidence-based strategy combining forest conservation, biodiversity protection, climate resilience, ecological sustainability and sustainable livelihoods.He said the forest sector strategy should provide a clear framework to balance environmental priorities with the livelihood and economic needs of local communities. The project also called for stronger extension services and better transfer of research-based technologies to farmers.
