Assam's Small Tea Growers Face Crisis Amid Falling Prices

Crisis in Assam's Tea Industry

Jorhat, Aug 24: Small tea producers in Assam, who account for over 52% of the state's tea output, are currently facing a dire situation as the price of tea leaves has dropped to as low as Rs 11 per kilogram in certain regions. This alarming trend has raised significant concerns among the growers, who are accusing the government and the Tea Board of India of neglect.

The Assam Small Tea Growers’ Association (ASTGA) reports that more than 200,000 small producers are enduring severe challenges, particularly as tea factories in Upper Assam are purchasing green leaves at unreasonably low prices.

Rajen Bora, the president of ASTGA, stated, “In areas like Tinsukia, many factories are offering merely Rs 11 per kilo for fresh leaves. This is blatant exploitation. The factories' policies appear designed to undermine small tea growers.”

Bora further criticized the Tea Board of India, labeling it a ‘white elephant’ for its lack of intervention despite numerous appeals.

He added, “Tea Board officials continue to receive government salaries while failing to provide justice for small tea growers. If these issues are not addressed promptly, we will have no choice but to initiate large-scale protests. The government and district authorities will bear the responsibility.”

Members of the association voiced their dissatisfaction with the price monitoring committees established by district commissioners, claiming they have not taken any substantial action.

One member remarked, “These committees were created to ensure fair pricing, yet they have not even engaged in discussions with growers. The government claims to support us but only offers empty promises. We demand a guaranteed minimum support price for tea leaves.”

Another pressing issue for Assam's tea producers is the influx of low-quality, inexpensive tea imports from countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Kenya, which they argue has adversely affected both the domestic market and the reputation of Assam tea.

Bora emphasized, “The government is permitting foreign tea to saturate our markets without adequate quality control. This has diminished the demand for Assam tea and has a direct negative impact on small growers.” He called for an immediate ban on such imports.

The association has warned that if conditions do not improve, small growers will escalate their protests.

Bora concluded, “Our patience is wearing thin. We will be forced to take decisive action if the government, Tea Board, and district authorities continue to disregard our plight.”