Tea planters want to establish their own factory to supply both the local and export markets, according to Naraindutt Mohall, Secretary of the Amarnath Credit & Tea Marketing Society Limited.
Mohall says the project will make them more autonomous and boost production.
He explains that tea planters have long aspired to manage their own tea factory to cater to both local and export markets, aligning with the government’s push for economic democratization.
Mohall believes this project will invigorate the declining tea industry, which has struggled to attract young people due to perceived lack of opportunities.
With their own factory and government support measures, Mohall believes young people will be more inclined to enter the tea sector.
He notes that the majority of tea planters are elderly, and it is time for the government to ensure a secure future for their children and grandchildren.
Mohall advocates for tax exemptions for tea planters purchasing utility vehicles to transport tea leaves, as most tea fields are around one acre in size.
Currently, workers must carry heavy bundles of tea leaves on their shoulders to the roadside daily.
He also calls on the Finance Minister to increase the price of tea leaves from Rs 23 to Rs 28 per kilogram, citing rising costs of fertilizers and labor.
Moreover, Mohall requests an increase in the distribution of fertilizers under the Tea Support Scheme from 175 kg to 250 kg per acre.
He urges an increase in the Winter Allowance from Rs 1.50 to Rs 2.75 per kilogram, and seeks representation of tea planters in the National Agricultural Products Regulatory Authority.
Lastly, Mohall demands compensation for tea planters for losses incurred during adverse weather conditions.
Source: Defi Media
