The tea industry in North India ( Assam & Dooars) is facing a severe crisis due to significant drops in production, driven by erratic weather patterns and rising input costs. As of July 2024, Assam has seen an 11% drop in production, while West Bengal has experienced a steeper 21% decline compared to the same period last year. These reductions are a direct result of adverse weather conditions.
The impact of these fluctuations has been catastrophic for production quality, especially as the first and second flushes, considered the highest quality teas were most affected. Severe pest and disease outbreaks, including infestations of Helopeltis, Looper Caterpillar, Green Fly, and Red Spider Mites, have compounded the issues. With these challenges, production figures for 2024 are expected to drop by 160-170 million kilograms, according to revised estimates from the Tea Board of India.
Presentation- Dibyabharati Nayak
