Tripura's Tea Sector Experiences Remarkable Growth

Transformative Changes in Tripura's Tea Industry

Agartala, June 15: The tea industry in Tripura is undergoing significant changes, with production numbers soaring, leading officials to describe it as a "tea uprising" in the northeastern region.

Cabinet Minister Ratan Lal Nath reported that tea production in Tripura has surged from 200,000 kg in 2017-18 to an impressive 755,000 kg projected for 2024-25.

According to Nath, this remarkable increase is attributed to the state government's commitment to revitalizing and promoting the tea sector.

Samir Ghosh, Chairman of the Tripura Tea Development Corporation (TTDC), emphasized the vast potential of the state's tea industry, citing underutilized government land and supportive policies.

“The government has allocated 12,832 hectares for tea cultivation, yet only 6,000 hectares are currently in use, leaving 6,832 hectares available for future expansion,” Ghosh noted, pointing out the opportunities for growth.

In contrast to other states that limit tea garden land to 4.2 hectares, Tripura has no such restrictions, allowing both large and small-scale growers to thrive.

"This gives Tripura a significant competitive advantage. Additionally, the strong flavor of Tripura tea is one of our key strengths," Ghosh added.

Presently, Tripura boasts 54 tea gardens, including five operated by the government, 11 by cooperative societies, and the rest privately owned.

Moreover, approximately 2,800 small tea farmers, each managing 1–2 hectares, contribute nearly 30% of the state's total tea output.

To assist these farmers, TTDC is enhancing local infrastructure.

“We are establishing a modern tea processing facility in Machhmara, Dhalai district, along with a tea auction center in Brahmakunda, West Tripura district," Ghosh stated.

This auction center, funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC) at a cost of Rs 2.2 crore, aims to help local farmers achieve better prices and lessen their reliance on auction houses in Assam.

"Currently, our teas are marketed under the Assam label. With this auction center, we intend to create a unique identity for Tripura tea," Ghosh asserted.

Since 2018, the state government has initiated several programs to enhance the national and international visibility of Tripura tea.

A distinctive 'Tripura Tea' logo was launched in 2018, and TTDC has introduced its own branded products. Plans are also in place to set up more processing units for green tea, orthodox tea, and CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) varieties, according to officials.

In a novel distribution approach, TTDC has begun offering 'Tripureswari Packet Tea' through Public Distribution System (PDS) outlets, making locally-produced tea available in ration shops.

In addition to industry-focused initiatives, the state government has taken steps to improve the living conditions of tea workers.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), housing has been provided to 3,339 families of tea laborers, highlighting the administration's commitment to inclusive rural development.