Tea Board Issues Directives to Ensure Fair Green Leaf Prices for Small Growers

The Tea Board has issued new directives to address non-remunerative prices paid by manufacturers to small tea growers. All registered manufacturers must now maintain a detailed daily register of green leaf purchases, including supplier information, quantity and fine leaf count.

The fine leaf count must be conducted using the TRA-developed ballometric method in the presence of the supplier. Both parties must sign the register, which will be regularly inspected.

The Board warned that violators will face action, noting that low green leaf prices have created hardship for growers and disrupted the tea supply chain. Prices had fallen to around Rs 11 in many areas, triggering widespread protests.