Innovative Bonus Payment Method for Tea Workers in Assam
New Approach to Bonus Distribution
File image of tea plantation workers in Assam (Photo: AT)
Doomdooma, Sept 22: In a notable shift from the conventional cash payment method, the Tonganagaon tea estate, part of the Chamong Group 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, particularly benefiting 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 attempted to implement digital bonus payments last year but faced resistance. This year, however, the plan was successfully executed following persistent counseling 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 method has been especially appreciated by female workers, who expressed that receiving the bonus directly in their bank accounts would allow them more control over their finances and the flexibility 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 and has called on the district administration to promote DBT for bonus distributions to benefit the broader tea garden community.