Structural Woes of South Assam Tea Industry Flagged at SVBITA AGM

Structural challenges facing the tea industry in southern Assam were highlighted at the 125th AGM of the Surma Valley Branch of the Indian Tea Association, with industry leaders calling for urgent reforms. MP Parimal Suklabaidya criticised the Congress for alleged neglect of tea workers before 2014, while crediting BJP governments for improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, wages and welfare.

SVBITA chairman Ishwar Bhai Ubhadiya raised concerns over low-cost tea imports being blended and re-exported, urging protection of the “India origin” label. He noted that Barak Valley planters face high transport costs, power issues and rising inputs despite significant wage hikes. Emphasising sustainability, he called for productivity gains, stricter quality control and greater use of technology to ensure the sector’s long-term resilience.