kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, June 9: Expressing strong optimism over the future of India’s tea sector, Tea Board Deputy Chairman C. Murugan on Tuesday said that the establishment of a “double engine government” would further accelerate the growth and development of the tea industry in the country. He made these remarks during a press conference organized by the Tea Board in Kolkata, where key stakeholders from the industry gathered to discuss the current situation and future roadmap of Indian tea.

Murugan emphasized that along with industrial expansion, equal priority would be given to the welfare and overall living standards of tea garden workers, who form the backbone of the sector. According to him, sustainable growth in the tea industry cannot be achieved without ensuring social security, better wages, healthcare facilities, and improved living conditions for tea plantation workers spread across various regions, especially in West Bengal and the northeastern states.

The discussion was the globally renowned Darjeeling tea, which continues to enjoy a premium position in international markets. Murugan said that targeted initiatives would be taken to further strengthen the global identity of Darjeeling tea by improving production quality, expanding modern marketing strategies, and enhancing export channels. He noted that Indian tea, in general, is witnessing growing demand in international markets, and the coming years are expected to see a significant rise in exports.

He further expressed confidence that this upward trend in exports would directly benefit hundreds of thousands of workers associated with the tea industry. Increased global demand, he said, would translate into better income opportunities for small tea growers, estate workers, and traders, ultimately improving the economic condition of entire tea-producing regions.

The press conference was followed by a crucial stakeholder meeting where representatives from various segments of the tea industry participated. Discussions centered around increasing production efficiency, improving supply chain systems, expanding export potential, and safeguarding the interests of workers. Industry participants also highlighted the need for technological modernization, better infrastructure in tea estates, and stronger government-industry coordination to maintain competitiveness in global markets.

The same occasion, Amit Kumar, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the positive trajectory of India’s exports in tea, coffee, and rubber over the past few years. He noted that consistent policy support, improved branding, and global outreach initiatives have contributed significantly to this growth. According to him, if this momentum continues, India will be well-positioned to achieve its broader economic vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”

Kumar added that India’s agricultural export basket is becoming more diversified and resilient, with tea playing a crucial role in strengthening rural economies. He stressed that continued focus on quality enhancement, sustainable farming practices, and international trade partnerships would be key drivers for future success.

The meeting reflected a strong sense of optimism among policymakers and industry leaders regarding the future of India’s tea sector. With renewed policy focus, rising global demand, and emphasis on worker welfare, the tea industry is expected to play an even more significant role in India’s economic growth story in the coming decades.