(1) It shall be the duty of the Board to promote by such measures as it thinks fit the development of the rubber industry ***.
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the measures referred to therein may provide for--
(a) undertaking, assisting or encouraging scientific, technological and economic research;
(b) training students in improved methods of planting, cultivation, manuring and spraying;
(c) the supply of technical advice to rubber growers;
(d) improving the marketing of rubber;
[(da) improving the quality of rubber and implementing the standards for quality marking, labeling and packing for the rubber produced or processed in, imported into or exported from, India;]
(e) the collection of statistics from owners of estates, dealers, [and manufacturers];
[(f) securing better working conditions and the provisions and improvement of amenities and incentives for workers;
(g) carrying out any other duties which may be vested in the Board under rules made under this Act.]
(3) It shall also be the duty of the Board--
(a) to advise the Central Government on all matters relating to the development of the rubber industry, including the import and export of rubber;
(b) to advice the Central Government with regard to participation in any international Conference or scheme relating to rubber;
(c) to submit to the Central Government and such other authorities as may be prescribed [half-yearly reports] on its activities and the working of this Act;
(d) to prepare and furnish such other reports relating to the rubber industry as may be required by the Central Government from time to time.