Will Tripura’s tea auction centre Transform the Beverage Industry?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tripura to establish a tea auction centre by next year.
- Event promotes local tea and engages youth positively.
- Aims to reduce transportation costs for producers.
- Significant contribution from small tea growers.
- Aligns with 'Vocal for Local' initiatives.
Agartala, Dec 17 (NationPress) Tripura is on the verge of establishing its very own tea auction centre by the upcoming year, a development that is anticipated to significantly boost the state's beverage industry.
This announcement was made by Samir Ranjan Ghosh, the chairman of the Tripura Tea Development Corporation, during the launch of the 'Run For Tea – 2025' event held in the city earlier today.
The run attracted participation from over a thousand attendees, including ministers, local representatives, and other distinguished guests.
The event was inaugurated by Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, alongside other dignitaries such as Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumdar, West Tripura Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Biswajit Shil, Olympian gymnast Dipa Karmakar, and Tea Board of India Deputy Director Raman Lal Baishya.
In his speech, the ministers emphasized that tea stands as the largest industry in Tripura, supporting the livelihoods of many. They highlighted that events like 'Run For Tea' not only enhance the branding of Tripura tea but also engage the youth in constructive activities, steering them away from the dangers of drugs.
The proposed auction centre aims to resolve the longstanding transportation issues faced by tea producers within the state.
Currently, a significant portion of Tripura's tea is sent to auction markets in Guwahati and West Bengal, leading to increased production costs.
The establishment of an auction centre locally will improve coordination between sellers and buyers, reduce transportation costs, and enhance the price realization for tea producers and all stakeholders involved in the industry.
At present, Tripura is home to 54 expansive tea gardens, which include those managed by the state-run Tripura Tea Development Corporation Limited, the Tripura Cooperative Society, and private estates.
Approximately 2,800 small tea growers account for nearly 30 percent of the state's total tea production, which is around 90 lakh kilograms annually.
Over 60 percent of this production is currently sold through auction markets situated outside the state.
The 'Run For Tea – 2025' is an annual initiative designed to promote Tripura tea, renowned for its distinctive aroma and flavor.
This event aims to raise awareness about the health benefits of tea and to encourage the consumption of locally produced goods in accordance with the 'Vocal for Local' and Swadeshi initiatives.