As the backbone of Assam’s economy, the tea industry has long been a symbol of the state’s identity, culture, and livelihood. However, over the past decade, the sector has grappled with multiple challenges ranging from fluctuating market prices and rising production costs to labor issues and climate change impacts. In a recent high-level industry meet held in Guwahati, tea estate owners, exporters, and policymakers came together to emphasize the urgent need for a holistic approach to revive Assam’s tea industry.
Industry’s Plight and the Call for Action
Speaking at the conclave, industry leaders underscored that the tea sector contributes significantly to Assam’s GDP and employment but is now at a critical crossroads. Assam accounts for over 50% of India’s total tea production, yet it continues to face declining profit margins and growing international competition. The stakeholders called on both the state and central governments to initiate a multi-dimensional revival strategy that includes policy support, investment in quality enhancement, and labor reforms.
According to Mr. Ranjit Baruah, a veteran tea grower, “The cost of production has surged, but the market prices have not increased in proportion. Without a sustainable model that benefits both growers and workers, the industry’s future is uncertain.”
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Need for Technological and Agricultural Reforms
One of the key solutions discussed was the adoption of modern agricultural practices and technologies to boost productivity and quality. From precision irrigation systems to AI-driven pest control methods, digitizing tea production was highlighted as essential.
The industry leaders urged the Tea Board of India and Assam Agricultural University to work closely with small and large growers alike to implement innovations. Enhanced Research & Development (R&D) support was another key recommendation, particularly to develop drought-resistant and pest-tolerant tea varieties suited to the changing climatic conditions of Assam.
Labour Welfare and Wage Restructuring
The wellbeing of tea workers—who form the backbone of this sector—was a central theme of the discussions. Issues such as low daily wages, lack of medical facilities, and poor housing conditions were raised. It was widely agreed that reviving Assam’s tea industry cannot happen without empowering its workforce.
The Assam government was urged to reconsider the current wage structure and improve access to healthcare, education, and skill development for tea garden communities. Public-private partnership models for social welfare were also proposed to improve the living standards in tea estates.
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Boosting Exports and Global Branding
Industry leaders also pointed out the untapped potential in global tea markets. Assam tea has a strong brand identity, but marketing and value addition remain weak points. The conclave proposed the formation of a Tea Export Promotion Council under the Ministry of Commerce to help local producers penetrate international markets more effectively.
Packaging innovations, certification for organic production, and participation in global expos were among the strategies discussed to enhance the global footprint of Assam tea.
Policy and Financial Support
For a meaningful turnaround, the industry emphasized the need for policy-level interventions and financial packages. This includes low-interest loans for small growers, subsidies for sustainable farming equipment, and special economic zones (SEZs) for tea-based industries.
Moreover, participants called for the revival of the defunct Assam Tea Corporation and increased budgetary allocations for tea sector development in the annual state budget.
A Shared Vision for Revival
The meet concluded with a joint resolution from all stakeholders to work in tandem toward a rejuvenated Assam tea industry. With comprehensive reforms that span production, labor welfare, technology adoption, and export promotion, reviving Assam’s tea industry is both a challenge and an opportunity.
Only a coordinated, holistic strategy involving growers, workers, industry bodies, and the government can restore the state’s iconic beverage to its former global stature—turning Assam tea into not just a product, but a powerful economic engine once again.
