A shortage of skilled rubber tappers is pushing farmers in Kottayam, Kerala, to look for a faster alternative. An electronic tapping machine is now drawing attention, as it can reportedly tap a rubber tree in just a few seconds, allowing one worker to cover more trees in less time.

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Farmers say the machine could reduce physical effort and make rubber tapping more attractive to youngsters. However, they stress that proper training is essential to use the technology safely and effectively. They also want the government and the Rubber Board to move beyond traditional methods and encourage mechanisation.

The biggest hurdle is the machine's cost. Farmers believe subsidies from the Rubber Board could bring the price down by nearly half, making it more accessible.