What New Skill Courses on Tea Sommeliers and Tasting Were Unveiled by Commerce Secretary?
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Synopsis
Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal has launched pioneering skill courses in tea sommeliers and tasting, aimed at enhancing youth skills and tea literacy. These courses, approved by NCVET, mark a significant step in strengthening India’s tea industry and aligning with national educational goals.
Key Takeaways
- Two new NCVET-approved courses focusing on tea sommeliers and tasting.
- Courses aim to enhance tea literacy among youth.
- Conducted at the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre.
- Developed with support from the Agriculture Skill Council of India.
- Aligned with NEP 2020 to strengthen India's tea value chain.
New Delhi, Sep 30 (NationPress) Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal officially launched skill courses approved by the National Council of Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) focused on Tea Sommeliers and Tea Tasting.
In a significant announcement made on International Tea Day, Barthwal emphasized that these specialized training programs offered by Tea Board India aim to equip the youth with essential skills and enhance tea literacy. The courses are set to be held at the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre, located in Kurseong.
One of the courses, titled Essentials of Tea Sommeliers (60 hours), covers the basics of tea, appreciation techniques, innovative tea blend development, and contemporary artisanal practices.
The second course, Fundamentals of Tea Tasting (210 hours), encompasses factory-level tasting operations, managing tasting sessions, tea blending based on tasting results, and future-ready manufacturing techniques.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry stated, “Upon successful completion, these trained experts will play a vital role in sensory evaluation, grading, and promoting tea literacy—key elements vital for boosting market competitiveness and enhancing consumer satisfaction.”
The courses were developed with support from the Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI), recognized by NCVET and the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
These innovative NCVET-approved courses represent a pioneering effort in the realm of tea tasting and are aligned with the NEP 2020, marking a crucial advancement in fortifying India’s tea value chain through a skilled workforce.
Point of View
The introduction of NCVET-approved skill courses in tea sommeliers and tasting is a commendable step towards enhancing India's tea industry. This initiative not only promotes tea literacy among the youth but also aligns with national educational policies, fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute significantly to market competitiveness and consumer satisfaction in the global market.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new skill courses launched?
The new skill courses launched are 'Essentials of Tea Sommeliers' and 'Fundamentals of Tea Tasting,' approved by NCVET.
Where will these courses be conducted?
These courses will be conducted at the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre in Kurseong.
Who developed these courses?
The courses were developed with assistance from the Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI).
What is the duration of the courses?
The 'Essentials of Tea Sommeliers' course lasts 60 hours, while the 'Fundamentals of Tea Tasting' course spans 210 hours.
What is the significance of these courses?
These courses aim to enhance tea literacy and equip youth with essential skills, contributing to India's tea value chain.
