Functions of the Board.

    (1) It shall be the duty of the Board to promote by such measures as it thinks fit the development of the rubber industry ¹***.
     (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;
         ²[(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, ³[and manufacturers];
         ⁴[(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 ⁵[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.