The Golokpur tea estate in Unakoti district of Tripura made its mark by setting a record for the highest quantity of white tea sold. The specialty of white tea lies in its harvesting process. It is plucked even before the plant’s leaves uncurl completely, and while the buds are still covered with fine white hairs, earning it the distinctive name.
India’s Role in Global Tea Production and Export
Dominating 14% of the global tea exports, India’s contribution to the international tea market is significant. Nearly one-fifth of the country’s total tea output is exported, as reported by Tea Board India. Apart from being the largest consumer, India holds the position of the second-largest producer of tea globally, also ranking fourth in terms of export.
Tea Cultivation in India: Regions and Conditions
The art of tea cultivation is practiced in various parts of India, the primary regions being Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri Hills of South India, and Tarai along the foothills of the Himalayas.
The growth of tea as a plant is very dependent on specific environmental conditions. Being a tropical and sub-tropical plant, tea blossoms perfectly in a hot and humid climate. The optimum temperature range for its growth is 20°-30°C, whereas temperatures above 35°C and below 10°C could prove detrimental. In terms of rainfall, it needs an annual average of 150-300 cm, fairly well distributed throughout the year. Ideal soil conditions include slightly acidic soil, devoid of calcium, with a porous sub-soil allowing free water percolation. Tea, being a shade-loving plant, flourishes when planted along with shady trees.
| Conditions for Growth | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Climate | Tropical and sub-tropical – hot and humid |
| Temperature | 20°-30°C |
| Rainfall | 150-300 cm annually, well distributed throughout the year |
| Soil | Slightly acidic (without calcium), porous sub-soil |
There exists a close correlation between these climate conditions and the yield and quality of tea.
The Tea Board of India: Structure and Function
The Tea Board of India is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Commerce. The board constitutes 31 members including its Chairman, spanning Members of Parliament, tea producers, traders, brokers, consumers, representatives of Governments from primary tea-producing states, and trade unions. The board undergoes restructuring every three years.
This dedicated institution focuses on several vital functions related to tea cultivation and marketing. It offers financial and technical support for the cultivation, manufacture, and marketing of tea along with promoting exports. Other important functions include Research and Development activities, extending limited financial help to plantation workers and their wards via labour welfare schemes, and maintaining and publishing statistical data regarding tea.
