Empowering Women Through Weaving: The Story of Moran Tea Estate

Moran Tea Estate is making strides in community empowerment by establishing a weaving center that not only preserves traditional crafts but also creates sustainable job opportunities for women. With a focus on education, health, and social security, this initiative aims to uplift the lives of garden workers and their families. The estate's management recognizes the potential of women and retired workers, fostering a sense of belonging and dignity through creative endeavors. As the program grows, it promises to inspire further change within the community, making a significant impact on the lives of many.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 16, 2026, 12:02 IST

A New Chapter in Community Empowerment

Dibrugarh, Jan 16: The Moran Tea Estate is crafting a narrative of empowerment, culture, and community resilience, transitioning from tea cultivation to the rhythmic sounds of weaving.

In a remarkable effort that transcends mere tea production, the estate has established a weaving center dedicated to preserving traditional crafts and generating sustainable job opportunities, especially for women, thereby uplifting the community through various initiatives.

Managed by Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited, the estate employs over 2,000 workers during peak seasons, with approximately 70% being women.

However, the estate's aspirations reach beyond just employment in tea fields. Acknowledging the potential of retired workers, homemakers, and women from nearby villages, the management has initiated a community-focused weaving project aimed at safeguarding traditional crafts while fostering sustainable livelihoods.

The weaving center, set up by Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited with support from the Ethical Tea Partnership’s Community Development Forum (CDF) and led by senior manager Subhabrata Sikdar, has quickly evolved into more than just a workplace.

It serves as a center where women acquire skills to weave gamochas, handkerchiefs, and other traditional garments, preserving cultural practices while promoting financial independence. With sewing machines provided and a master trainer guiding them in weaving and embroidery, participants are transforming creativity into income and self-assurance.

“The looms represent more than just employment; they symbolize dignity, creativity, and a sense of community,” stated Manjula Kahar, the program mobilizer at Moran Tea Estate.

She expressed that the enthusiasm among women is evident, and although the center is still in its infancy, there are ambitious plans for future growth.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy by Luxmi Tea Co Private Limited under the CDF initiative, which focuses on seven critical areas: Education, Social Security, Health, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Women Empowerment, Child Protection, and Youth Development.

“These efforts aim to enhance the lives of garden workers and their families,” remarked Mantu Barhoi, the estate’s welfare officer.

The impact extends beyond skill acquisition. Kahar noted, “We also strive to combat child marriage, decrease school dropouts, and promote healthy lifestyles.

Sports play a significant role in this: many of our youth have represented district and state teams in football and hockey, while others have secured government employment,” she added.

The CDF initiatives also facilitate access to essential government services, ensuring that every individual possesses bank accounts, Aadhaar cards, Ayushman cards, and ration cards, among others.

These initiatives empower families to access healthcare, education, and social benefits, fostering long-term stability.

At the core of these transformations are women leaders from the tea estate, such as Monumati Kalandi, the Sardarni of Moran Tea Estate and ACMS unit secretary. Her election as the Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha’s garden union secretary and her appointment as CDF secretary mark significant milestones.

“Monumati Kalandi effectively mobilizes women for various initiatives. She educates, manages, and leads with confidence, inspiring others to take action. Programme mobilizer Manjula Kahar is also dynamic and proactive, spearheading most community projects. Together, these women have become role models, motivating others to influence change within their families and communities,” Sikdar shared.