Study Highlights Challenges, Opportunities for Northeast Small Tea Growers

A NEDFi study under the Techno Economic Development Fund examined efforts by small tea growers in the Northeast to shift from selling raw leaves to producing value-added tea. The region contributes about 53% of India’s tea output, with Assam leading. While many growers are moving toward premium products, the study found challenges in organic transition, production, infrastructure, funding, market access, and regulations. It recommends short- and long-term strategies to boost value-added tea production and strengthen small growers’ economic prospects.