Innovative Bonus Payment Method for Tea Workers in Assam

Direct Benefit Transfer for Durga Puja Bonus

Doomdooma, Sept 22: In a notable shift from the conventional cash payment method, the Tonganagaon tea estate, part of the Chamong Group of Gardens located in Kakopathar, Tinsukia district, has initiated the distribution of the Durga Puja bonus to its employees via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) as a trial.

On September 17, the management transferred over Rs 1.28 crore into the bank accounts of approximately 1,600 workers, ahead of the usual schedule. This initiative aims to enhance the security of workers' earnings, especially for female employees, and to prevent potential misuse of the bonus funds.

Alok D Jakhmola, the General Manager of Tonganagaon Tea Estate, noted that he had previously attempted to implement a digital payment system for the puja bonus last year but faced resistance. This year, however, the plan was successfully executed following persistent encouragement and motivation, despite some initial objections.

As per Jakhmola, 15% of the total 20% bonus has already been credited to the workers' accounts, with the remaining 5% expected to be deposited before Christmas.

This new approach has been particularly well-received by female workers, who expressed that receiving the bonus directly in their bank accounts would provide them with better control over their finances, allowing them to withdraw funds as needed.

Historically, tea garden bonuses have been distributed in cash. The management believes that digital transfers can help workers protect their earnings from unwanted interference and minimize the risk of funds being spent on alcohol, gambling, or other unnecessary expenses.

Jakhmola hopes that other tea estates will follow suit in adopting digital payment methods for bonuses. He also called on the district administration to promote the use of DBT for bonus payments to benefit the broader tea garden community.