Tripura Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma emphasized the BJP-led government’s efforts to boost the tea industry in the northeastern state. Chakma acknowledged that the previous Left Front regime had largely ignored the tea sector, but assured that the current government has taken initiatives to promote the industry.
The minister highlighted that tea produced in Tripura now has a brand and logo for proper marketing, and that Chief Minister Manik Saha has laid the foundation for an e-auction centre in Agartala. Chakma sought assistance from stakeholders, including Tea Board India, Tea Research Institute, and Tea Development Corporation, to further boost the tea industry ¹.
Sumanta Poddar from the India Tea Association noted that Tripura tea is the safest to drink due to its minimal use of pesticides. However, he emphasized that transportation of the finished product to auction centres remains a major challenge ¹.
Experts also stressed the importance of quality plucking of tea leaves, addressing manpower shortages in tea gardens, and promoting the benefits of drinking tea to attract buyers. Tea Board of India’s Factory Advisory Officer, C Bharathiraja, highlighted the need for branding and promotion of Tripura tea, as well as addressing transportation challenges ¹.
Tripura has 52 tea gardens and produces around 9 million kg of finished tea annually. The state’s tea industry has a rich history, dating back to 1916, and is known for its good quality tea.
