STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The National Small Tea Grower’s Conference 2023 was organized on Friday at the NEDFi House in Guwahati. Jointly organized by Solidaridad and the Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers’ Associations (CISTA), with the support of the All Assam Small Tea Growers Association (AASTA), All Bodoland Small Tea Growers Association (ABSTGA), Jalpaiguri District Small Tea Growers Association (JDSTGA), and Small Tea Growers Associations of South India, this conference provided a platform for industry leaders, experts, and small tea growers from across India to address the challenges and opportunities in the tea sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajen Bora, president of AASTA, said, “The small tea growers have been taking massive responsibility on the part of the tea industry of the state and provide better quality output compared to the large-scale producers. The government takes responsibility for resolving the problems faced by small tea growers. Agitation is our last resort, but if the problems are not solved, we will be forced to take that course.”
The National Small Tea Grower’s Conference 2023 proved to be an enlightening and transformative event, shedding a well-deserved spotlight on the indispensable role of small tea growers (STGs) within the Indian tea industry. This gathering served as a pivotal platform to recognize and celebrate the substantial contributions of STGs to the nation’s tea production landscape. These dedicated individuals and their steadfast commitment to tea cultivation have, over the years, elevated them to the status of unsung heroes in India’s agricultural tapestry. The conference not only acknowledged the significant impact of STGs but also delved deep into the multifaceted challenges they confront in their daily endeavours. From the complexities of cultivating and nurturing tea plants to the intricacies of processing and marketing their yields, STGs face an array of obstacles that deserve attention and resolution.
Dr. Shatadru Chattopadhyay, Managing Director of Solidaridad Network Asia, shared an extensive and enlightening perspective on the remarkable journey of small tea growers (STGs) in the Indian tea industry. He underscored the significance of this contribution, stating, “In our journey to understand the dynamics of the tea industry, it becomes increasingly evident that small tea growers are the unsung heroes of this story. They have not only managed to carve a niche for themselves but have also greatly contributed to the overall tea production in India. Their dedication, often amidst daunting challenges, is a testament to their commitment to this age-old craft. The conference provided a unique opportunity to shed light on their extraordinary efforts and the critical role they play in the industry’s success.”
Prabhat Bezbaruah, former Chairman of the Tea Board, emphasized the importance of supporting STGs and empowering them for quality tea production. He noted, “The conference served as a platform for meaningful discussions and shared insights into the challenges faced by STGs. It’s crucial for the organized sector and government bodies to support STGs in their journey towards quality tea production.” Bijoy Gopal Chakraborty, Chairman of CISTA, said, “The small tea growers’ segment is one of the most revolutionary and dynamic elements in the Indian tea industry. We must ensure their sustainable development and empower them with the knowledge and resources required to produce high-quality teas.”
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