THE TEA INDUSTRY IN INDIA :

A SURVEY

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DR. K.G. KARMAKAR

Executive Director. NABARD. Mumbai
DR. G.D. BANERJEE
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DGM/OIC, Nagaland RO. NABARD

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2005
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Occasional Paper - 39

,THE TEA INDUSTRY IN INDIA . . ."

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A SURVEY
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DR. K.G. KARMAKAR

Executive DIrector. NABARD. Mumbai
DR. G.D. BANERJEE
DGM/OIC. Nagaland RO. NABARD
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Department of Economic Analysis and Research
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National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
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Mumbai

2005
Authors
Dr. K.G. Karmakar
Executive Director. NABARD. Mumbai

Dr. G.O. Banerjee

OGM/Ole. Nagaland RO. NABARD

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Published by the National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development, Department of
Economic Analysis & Research, 4th Floor, 'C' Wing. Plot No, C-24. G-Block.
PB No. 8121, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East). Mumbai - 400 051.

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Printed at Karnatak Orion Press, Fort, IIIlumbai - 400 001.

Ii
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No •

Foreword .zill
Acknowledgement xlv
Part One : Evolution of Tea Industry. Tea in India and the World.
Features of the Indian Tea Industry. Deuelopment of Tea Industry
during 1850-2002. Outlook upto 2007
1_ Evolution of Tea Industry
i. History of Tea Leaf 1
it. Beginning qI Tea In India 1
iii. Birth of VIe Indian Tea Industry 2
iv. Tea Trade 2
v. Formation of Tea Association 2
vi. Tea Research 3
vii. International Tea Regulation Scheme 3
viii. International Tea Agreement Scheme 3
ix. Tea Control Act and its Amendment 3
x. Tea Board 3
2. Tea in Inclla and the World 4
i. Introduction 4
ii. Plantation Industry 4
iii. Tea - Agriculture as well as lnc1w;try 4
iv. India's place in the World Tea 5
a. Area under Tea - India and the World 5
b. Production of Tea . India and the World 6
c. Export of Tea - India and the World 7
v. Tea Industry : Earner oJ Foreign Exchange 7
vi. Tea Industry: Source qJ Employment 8
vii. Contribution q.f Tea Industry to Total Revenue 9
lJiit. Tea as (l Supporter of Allied Activities 9
3. Featurea of Tea Induatry It)
i. Fanning (md Maru.-!facturlng 10
a. Withering 10
b. Rolling and fi'emlt!rtling 10
c. Gradillg and Packing 11
Ii. Geographical Locations. etc. II
a. Area. Production and Yield oj Tea 1I
b. ZonC!-wise Clnss!JicntioTl qI Tca etc.. 11
c. Area-wL..e Distribution 12
d. Age-wise CiClss!Jication of States 12

U1
 Page No.

tiL Primary Marlcettng 12

iv. Exports 13
v. Internal Consumption 15
vi. Mqjor Taxes 16
vti. Labour 21
vtiL Development Measures 22

4. Development of Tea Industry during 1850-2002 23

i. Pre-jlve Year Plan Period /1850 to 1950} 23
a. The period of Rapid Growth (1850 to 1890/ 23
b. The Period of StabUUy (1890 to 1918) 24
c. Inter War Period {1918 to 1939} 25
d. Period of Prospertty /1939 to 1950} 26
if. Post Five Year Plan 26
a. First Five Year Plan {1951-52 to 1955-56} 26
b. Second Five Year Plan {1956-57 to 1960-61} 27
c. Third Five Year Plan {1961-62 to 1965-66} 28
d. Annual Plans (1966-67 to 1968-69) 29
e. Fourth Five Year Plan [1969-70 to 1973-74/ 30
f Fifth Five Year Plan (1974-75 to 1978-79) 30
g. Sixth Five Year Plan (1980-81 to 1984-85) 32
h. Seventh Flve Year Plan (1985-86 to 1989-90) 34
L Eighth Five Year Plan (I991-92 to 1995-96) 36
J. Ninth Five Year Plan 11997-98 to 2001-2oo2} 37
k. Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-03 to 2006-2007/ 38
l. Areu. Production. Yield. Export from 19.50-2002 38
Part Two : Nomenclature and ClassifICation, Flora Biology and
Embryology, Pollination, ArtifICial Pollination, Genetics, Development in
Plant Improvement. Climatic Conditions for Tea Growing Districts in India
5. Nomenclature and Cla&.lflcatlOD Norm. for Tea 39
L Nomenclature and ClassYfcatlon 39
if. Ftora Biology and Embryology 39
a. Pollination 39
b. Art!ficlal PolUnaUon/ Hand Cross PolUnatfon. 39
tiL Genetics 39
a. Cytology 39
b. Inbreeding 40
c. CompatfbUUy 40
d. Inheritance 40
8. •
Development in Plant Improvement 40
i. Mass Selection 40
fL Selection Criteria for Yield 40

tv
 Page No.
UL Selection Cr1terla for Quality 40
a. Pubescence 40
b. Colour of Leaf 41
c. Anatomical Character 41
tv. Clonal vs Seed Propagation 41
v. Selection Procedures/Criteria 41
7. AgrocUmatlc Conclltlons of Tea Growing Regions In the North East 41
Part Three : Planting and Processing Technology. Manuring.
Research & Development. Thrust Area of Tea

8. Planting and Processing Technology -

the changing trends over the years 43
i. Field Te~hnology 43
a. Manuling 43
9. Research and Development 44
i. FYfties 44
a. Sixties 44
fa. Seventies 44
iv. Eighties 44
v. Tocklai Experiment Station on R&D 44
a. Breeding and Selection 44
b. TIssue Culture 44
c. Prunning 44
d. Plucking 44
e. Tea Physiology 44
f. Microbiology 44
g. Nutrition 44
h. Pest and Diseases 45
i. Tea Chemistry 45
J. Tea Manufacture 45
k. Health Aspects of Tea 45

10. Thrust Areas In Tea Research 45

i. Plant Environment 45
ii. Plant Nutrl.ents 45
UL Water Management 45
iv. Applied Physiology 45
v. Improvement oj Tea Quality and Flavour 45
vi. Biological Control oj Pest Diseases 45
va. Modernisation and Automation oj Tea Factories 45
vUL Alternative Uses of Tea 45

v
 Page No.
Part Four : Marketing systems. Aspects of Tea Markets.
Domestic Market. Export Markets. Promotion
11. Tea Marketing - Signs of Maturity 47
12. Loss of London Market 47
13. Marketing System of Tea 48
14. Modes of Disposal 49
15. Marketing Models of Tea 50
L Direct Consignment to London Auction 50
ii Direct Sale by Forward Contract to Overseas Buyers 50
iii. Consignment to Indinn Auctions 50
Lv. Direct Ex-Jactory Sale to Indian Buyer 50
I). Direct Sale by Fonvard Contract to Indian Buyers 51
I)L Direct Marketing (loose tea) in Wholesale Markets 51
I)ii Self-packeting and Export oj Packets Overseas 51
16. Primary Marketing 51
17. Development of Auction Markets In the World 52
18. Auction Centres Abroad 52
19. Tea Auction FaciUties 53
20. Tea Auction System 53
21. Advantage of Auction Sale 54
22. Tandon Committee on Marketing 55
23. Ez-garden Sale 55
24. Mini Auction 56
25. Auction for Blended and Packet Teas 57
26. New Tea Auction Rules 58
L Auction Day 59
ii Catalogue 59
UL Prompt Data 59
Ill. Brokerage 60
I). Size oj I..at.s 60
I)i. Dil)ision ~r Lots 60
1)11. Withrlrawal oj I..ats 60
"iii. Sale Int Outlets 61
Ix. Warehouse Rent and In..'iurance 61
x. Closing Catalogue 62
xi. Distribution oj Samples 62
27. Quantum of Samples 62
28. Bidding Rates 62
29. Claims for Shortages. Non-deUvery. Damaged Teas 6:3
30. Supervision 63
31. Collaboration 63
32. Tea Market Trend 64
33. Production 64

vi
 Page No.
34. Domestic Market 65
35. Ezport 65
36. The Auction System 66
37. Import of Tea 66
38. Promotion 66
39. Quality 66
40. Culture Products 66
41. Bulk Packaging 67
42. Marketing of Indian Tea - Domestic V. Export 67
43. Unrestricted Import of Tea 72
44. Production vis-a-vis Consumption 73
45. Imports for Re-export 74
46. Standard of Quality 75
47. Conclusidn 75
Part Five : Oolong and Other Teas - World Production,
World Exports & Imports, Producers and Importers of Green Tea etc.
48. Introduction 77
L Distinct Quality 77
iL Manlifactwillg Process 77
ilL Conversion Ratto 78
49. World Production 78
50. World Ezports 79
51. World Imports 80
52. Producers of Green Tea 81
53. Process Chart of Indian Green Tea 87
54. Importers of Green Tea - Consumer Preferences 88
55. Oolong Tea - China. Taiwan 90
Part Six : Current Tea Trends, FAO Projections, Domestic
Consumption, Imports, Research & Development etc.
56. Current Tea Trends 91
57. Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Projections for 2005 92
58. Decline In the rate of Domestic Consumption 92
59. Imports 92
60. Present status of Research and Development in Tea 93
i. HighltrJlltS q{ Rescclrch & Dt'l'elopml'nl Contributions on Tea 93
iL Approach to XIII Plan Period 94
61. New Proposals for Research during Xth Five Year Plan 95

Part Seven : Export Markets and Competitiueness

62. introduction 97

vii
 Page No.
83. Competitor ADa1:ysta of 16 Specific Markets 98
64. Area Production and Export of Tea of Different Countries 99
Part Eight : Constraints, Suggestions and Remedial Measures

65. Constraints 101

66. Cost of Production 101
67. Concentration of Production Base 102
68. Issues Impactln. £%port Performance 102
69. india's Competitive Position 103
70. india's Tea Industry - Supply Side Constraints 104
71. Schemes during the XII. Five Year Plan 105
f. Plantation Development &heme 105
if. Quality Upgradation and Product Diversification Schemes 105
UL Market Prorrwtion Scheme 105
iv. Research and Development Scheme 106
u. Human Resource Development &heme 106
72. Development of Small Tea Growers - Measures durlng XCII Plan Period 108
73. Proaress in Recent Techniques In Tea Cultivation 108
74. Production Target in Xth Plan 109
75. FAO Projections in Black Tea 109
76. Approach to X'h Five Year Plan liD
77. Strategies for XC" Five Year Plan Period III
78. On the Production Front I II
79. On the Product Front 112
SO. On the Marketing Front 112
81. On the Infrastructure Front 113
82. On Government Front 113
83. Investment activities during Xth Plan Period 114
f. Proposed Development Measures 114
if. Quality Upgmcialioll and Product Diversification 114
iiL Rearch and Development 115
iv. Market Development 116
84. Summary of Xth Plan Outlay 116
Part Nine : Price Stabilisation Fund, Price Stabilisation
Fund Account, Guidelines

88. Background 119

86. Objectives 119
87. Duration of the Scheme 119
88. Mode of Intervention 119
89.
90. How to become a Member
..
Who can participate In the Scheme 119
119

viii
 Page No.
91. OpeDlDg and Maintenance of Accounts 120
92. Calculation and Contributions from. Govt. of India and Membel'll 120
93. Defaulters 121
94. New Membership - Wustl'lltions 121
95. Price Stabilisation Fund Accounts 122

Part Ten : Madhukar Committee - Report qf the Workirtg

Groups Ort Problems qf Tea Industry

96. Background 125

97. Suggested Solutions based on feed backs 125
98. For Banks 126
L Seasonal deflcit on borrowal accounts 126
iL Exte1lSion qf period. to liquidate the Working Ar.count 126
iii Release qJ need based Working Capftal 127
iv. Reschedulement oj ,.:xi,sting Term Loan 127
v. Post Conversion / RestmctuMY and Rescheduliny oj Tea Accounts 127
vi.. Treatment oj Tea Advance as NPA 127
vii. Fresh Working Capital Term Loan 128
viiI.. Bank may allow a rate oj Interest 129
99. For NABARD 129
100. For Tea Board 129
101. For Central and State Government 130
102. Small Tea Growers and Bought Leaf Factories 131
103. For Small Tea Growers and Bought Leaf Factories 131
104_ Tea Borrowers 132

Part Eleven : Package of Relief Measures for Tea Industry

105. Introduction 133

106. Status of Tea Industry in India 133
107. Outlook for the Future of Tea Industry 134
108. Approach to Restructuring of Borrowers Accounts 134
109. Recommended Relief Measures for various segments of Tea Industry 135
I.. Small Tt.'Cl Growers 135
il.. Bought leqf FactonJ 135
iii. Large Tea Growers and Mamifacturers 135
110. Conclusion 136

Part Twelve : Product Divers(fication, Export. of Packet Teas,

Tea Bags, Instant Teas

111. Background 139

Ix
 Pale No.
112. Export of Packet Tea 140
113. Direction - Reglon-wlee Packet Tea Export 142
114. Ezport of Tea Bags 142
lU5. Direction of Tea Bag Ezporta 143
118. Value Added Concept 144
117. Forms of Value Addition 144
118. Sharing of Value Added Tea 144
119. Instant Tea - It. development 146
120. Ezport Market for Indian Tea 147
121. Incentives to Value Added Teas 147
122. Problems of Value Added Instant Tea 149
123. Long Term StratelY for Marketing of Value Added Ite. . 149
124. Potential and Scope for Instant Teas 151
125. Tea Powder 151

Part Thirteen : Small Tea Growers . Problems and Prospects

126. Introduction 153

127. Concept of Small Tea Growers 153
128. Socio Economic Profile of Selected Borrowers 154
129. Field Practices And Cultural Operations 154
(. Climate. soU and Rainftlll 154
a. Variety oj clones 154
ill. Land. preparation and Planting 154
iv. Manuring and Fertilisers 155
u. Shade 155
u(. Prunning 155
ua. Weed control 155
uiii. Pest Control 155
ix. lnigatwn 155
x. Drainage 156
xi. Haroesti.ng and Post HanJest Management 156
130. Infrastructure Support 156
131. Credit Flow 156
132. Input. and Outputs 157
133. Cost of Cultivation 157
134. Marketing 157
135. Problems of Small Tea Grc:. ""era 157

x
 Page No.
L Unorgan(sed Growth 157
iL Land. Patta. and 1ltles 158
UL Teclmtcal Requirements 158
tv. Ecological Imbalance 158
v. FInance 158
vi. Marketing 158
vii Case (n Ilandlfng 158
198. Conclusions &: RecollllllendatloDS 159
197. Polley Issues 160 .

xi
 FOREWORD

It has been a long journey for the Tea industry in India since
the 18th Centu:ry. Tea has had a longer history in China where it
was reselVed for the royal family and wealthy nobles. The growth
of the industry has been a fascinating one, with innovations and
tremendous growth with some problem years. As a plantation
crop with enormous profits, tea has been a favoured crop. From
the kings to the lowly peasant, all have been partial to tea, in
different fla~ours and concoctions!.

As a 'healthy' and stimulating drink tea has Its share of

admirers. Also, NABARD has had considerable interaction with the
tea industry which has had access to bank credit since long. A
better understanding of the cyclical nature of the tea industJy Is
r.equired from the bankers while tea growers and tea
manufacturers need to concentrate on innovations In product
development and more so, on Improvement in quality. India has
the potential to be the market leader in innovations for the tea
industry. The needs of the small tea growers are to be given
greater fillip as also better appreciation of their requirements,
especially as regards production credit. A closer look is required if
the Indian Tea industry is to be revived so that it regains its
pre-eminent position. And hence this in-depth survey of the tea
industry.

10th September 2005 Ranjan. Kumar

Mumbal Chairperson
NABARD
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

A sUlVey which covers the entire Tea Industry Is a gigantic task and
would not have been possible without the help of colleagues and
friends whose suggestions have enriched the presentation.

For all the risks of omission and commission, the authors alone are
responsible. We are grateful to Smt. Ranjana Kumar, Chairperson,
NABARD for having agreed to wrlte the Foreword to this compilation
of exhaustive data on the Tea industry in India.

lOth September 2005 Dr. K.G. Kannakar

Executive Director
NABARD
&
Dr. G.D. Banerjee
DGM & OIC
Nagaland RO
NABARD

xiv
Part One : Evolution of Tea Industry, Tea in India
and the World, Features of the Indian
Tea Industry, Development of Tea
Industry during 1850-2002, Outlook
upto 2007
1. Evolution of the Tea Industry

i. History of Tea Leqf - The ongln of the tea bush has been
contested by scholars. It is native to certain areas ranging
from the intertor of Southern China to the border of Assam.
Tea has only one species which is called "Camellia Sino sis
((L).O.~.mtze]. It came to the light in Fourth century and by
about 650 A.D. during the TS'ang dynasty the growing
popularity of tea induced farmers in most provinces in China
to cultivate Tea and subsequently became an article of
commerce. In the early years of 780 A.D., LuYu commis-
sioned the first book on tea entitled "Chaching" a tea classic.
The first printed reference by a European writer about the
mysterious Chinese drink was dated to 1559 A.D. The
knowledge of tea travelled slowly from East to West. The
Dutch Merchants established a trading base at Benton by
1596. The first consignment of tea from China was
transported to Benton in 1606 and from there it was shipped
to-non-tea-conscious Europe. By the mid-1650s, a quick brisk
trade in tea was made with Holland. In France, the future of
tea was linked with the Sterling Company.

if. Beginning of Tea in India - Thc discovery of indigenous tea

in Assam in 1823 led to the origins of the tea industry in
India. However, the Calcutta Agricultural Society differs from
the above opinion. It has conSistently held that in the early
1700's, the ships of the East India Company frequently
brought the tea plants in the country by way of curiosity. Col.
Kyd, a resident of Calcutta and a famous botanist, saw tea
plants growing in his garden in 1780. This information was
sent to Sir Joseph Bank and in 1782 his garden was handed
over to Botanical Garden of Calcutta. In 1788. Sir Joseph
Bank recorded the existence of indigenous tea growing wild in
Coochbehar and Rangpur districts of Bengal and suggested
the cultivation of this plant. The wild teas of Coochbehar
confirmed the first discovery of indigenous tea in India.

1
iii. Birth of Indian Tea Industry - The birth of Indian tea
industry was marked by the discovery of indigenous teas
plant in Assam in 1823 by Robert Bush. This received
momentum when the East India Company in 1833 lost the
tea trading monopoly in China. In 1835. a sCientific
deputation was sent to Assam to report on prospects of the
tea industry and the team saw tea plants in many parts in
the hills between Assam and Burma. In 1836. C.A. Bruce
was made the Superintendent of Tea Forests. Among others,
he formed the Bengal Tea Company at Calcutta with the
objective of purchasing the produce from the East India
Company's tea plantations in India. A Similar Company was
also established in the same year in London with the same
objectives.
In 1839 the first conSignment of tea from India (eight chests)
was shipped to London and it was auctioned at a price
ranging from six to thirty four shillings per pound. In 1840,
two thirds of experimental teas were handed over to new
company. In 1852. the first tea company in India paid its
final dividends. The second limited company in 1859 was
formed in Assam called Jorhat Company. During 1862-67. tea
cultivation started in Chittagong and Chotta Nagpur.
Ultimately tea cultivation was commissioned in many districts
in India wherever there was some hope of a success.Within a
few months. India along with Sri Lanka dominated the world
tea trade/market.
iv. Tea Trade - In 1874 the land located in the East of Teesta
river was explored with the foreign liability of growing tea
plants. By 1876 as many as 13 gardens had started
cultivating tea. In 1878 the first two Indian tea gardens by
name Megalkat Tea Estate and Indian Tea Company Ltd. were
established though the Company actually received a grant of
741 acres on 19 March 1981. The first tea auction sta.rted on
May 26. 1841 in London under the pioneering leadership of
Lyal & Co .. Mincing Lane. London was the centre of World
Tea activities prior to World War II. The first tea auction in
Calcutta in December 27, 1861 and the second in Cochin in
1947 for South Indian teas were held. Subsequently. many
tea auction centres were opened in Coonoor, Guwahatt.
Amritsar. Siliguri etc. ..
v. Formation of Tea Association - The Tea planters formed
an association named Indian Tea AsSOCiation (ITA) In 18 May

2
 1881. with its headquarters at Calcutta for promoting their
common interest and objectives. Subsequently many
associations were formed in various tea regions of North and
South India.
vi. Tea Research - For greater interest of the industry. the Tea
Research Association was established in 1964 at Tocklai.
Assam and was fundcd jointly by Council of Scientific and
Industrial Research [CSIR) and Tea Board of India. Subscrip-
tions of member tea estates and other associate members
were called for to cany out the research work. United Planters
Association of South India [UPASI) Tea Research Institute had
its origin in the year 1926 at Coimbatore District. Tamil
Nadu.
I
vii. International Tea Regulation Scheme - During the second
half of the 191h century and first half of the 20th century. four
major slumps [1866. 1879. 1896-1904. and 1920) took place.
To counteract the situation India. Sri Lanka. Nethcrlands and
East Indies reached an agreement on voluntary basis to
curtail tea production. The world economic depression resulted
in dccllne in tca consumption and stocks continued to pile up
till 1932

viii. International Tea Agreement - Producing countries like

India. Indonesia and Sri Lanka entered into an agreemcnt on
April 01. 1933 for a period of five years to bring about
balance between supply and demand for tea in the world
market. A second agrcemcnt was signed and came into force
for a further period of five years i.e. 01 st April. 1938 to 31 sl
March. 1943. The agreement was extended upto 31 st March.
1948. Further an interim agreement was signed in April. 1948
and continued till 3 pi March. 1950.
ix. Tea Control Act and its Amendment - The Indian Tea
Control Act 1933 was amended in 1938 and 1943. and
subsequently in 1950. The administration of the Aet in 1938
was vested in a Committce called "Tea Licensing Committec"
which consisted of a Chairman appOinted by the Central Govt.
and ] 4 other members of which 10 were nominated by the
Industry and 04 elected from the constituencies embodied in
the Act. The Committee continued upto 31 ~t December 1949.
:lit. Tea Board - Both the Central Tea Board Act 1949 and
Indian Tea Control Act 1938 were replaced by the Tea Act

3
 1953 which came Into effect from 01 st April 1954. The
functioning of the Central Tea Board and Indian Tea licensing
committee were entrusted with the Tea Board which was
responsible for promoting development of tea industry under
the control of Central Government.
2. Tea in India and World
i. Introduction - The 'Plantation Industry'. which was
developed over 150 years. has a colonial origin. It is now a
valuable asset to the nation. Plantation industry is a branch
of agriculture in the broader sense. The organization of
modern plantation relates more to the factory than to the
farm. Generally. there is a specialization in one crop. which is
produced on a large scale for export and for maintenance
work. The output is continuous through out the year. The
major plantation crops like tea. coffee. rubber and cardamom
have now developed to a large extent.

ii. Plantation Industry - In India. plantations account for 0.8

per cent of the total cultivable land. They also contribute 5
per cent to the national income in agriculture. Besides they
provide more employment per rupee of investment in the
country than either agriculture or in industry. Plantation
industry employs a large amount of labour force especially
women workers which arc highest compared to any Industry.
Moreover. this industry helps in the development of other
industries.
Among the different plantation crops. Lea is conSidered to be
the most important crop in our country. It is the second
biggest foreign (!xehangc carner and is exported to about 80
countries. It also conlributes a Sizeable amount to the
national income. Moreover. it provides direct gainful employ-
ment to a large number of people and helps in providing
indirect employment il1 various sectors like road construction.
transportation. building of warehouses. manufacture of
plywood tea chest. aluminium foil, tinplate, metal fittings.
paper. card board. fertilizers. insecticides. pesticides. coal.
iron. steel. etc. Apart from its contribution to t.he economy of
India. tea today provides to the ('ommon man a pleasant and
stimulating non-alcoholic hcv<:ragc.
iii. Tea : Agriculture as well as Industry - Tea can be placed
both under agriculture and industry. It is industry in the

4
 sense that tea is a processed and manufactured commodity.
which is subject to excise duty and cess. It is also an
agricultural crop because it is grown on land and thus
agricultural income tax is also levied on it. Moreover. tea
plantation is governed by both agricultural and industrial
rules and regulatlons. The tea crop involves both agricultural
and industrial operations. Agricultural operations like
cultivation, plucking, manuring, irrigation, weed control.
disease control. pest control. transportation of green leaf and
uprooting are undertaken for growing tea. The final product of
tea comes through various processing and manufacturing
stages like withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, weighing.
sorting. cutting that place it under industry. Thus the tea
plantation, though a big agricultural enterprise, has also some
characteristlcs of industIy. The establish-ments and operations
of such industry require massive investment of capital.
Modern technical equipment is also necessary for processing
the product. An outstanding feature of the plantatlon economy
is that a large portion of tea has been sold in the internal
markets from the very inception of this industry. This has.
therefore. made it necessary to have well-organised marketing
services. The requirement of capital, technical know-how and
organized marketing services explain why, the unit of
production of tea has taken the shape of a large industrial
establishment.

iv. India's Place in the World of Tea

a. Area under Tea : India and the World - The number
of tea producing countries in the world has been
increasing since 1950 and at present there are more than
80 such countries. Among the principal tea producing
countries in the world. India occupies the first place in
terms of area. India's area under tea presents appreciable
increase during the period from 1961 to 2002 and the
world's tea area exhibited a significant rise. While the
world tea area increased by 186 per cent. India's rose by
just 54 pcr cent. India's tca area as percentage to world
tea area has declined over the years from 34.33 per cent
to 18.54 per cent. In absolute temls, India's total area in
1961 was 331 thousand ha., which increased to 511
thousand ha. in 2002. Similarly, the world's area under
tea was 964 thousand ha. in 1961 and 2756 thousand ha.
in 2002. Comparative picture is shown in Table 1.

5
 Table 1 : India's share in World Tea Area during
1961-2002 (Area in thousand hectare)
-
I
World India India's
Year Area Absolute Area Absolute share 8S
increase/decrease increase/decrease percent-
age world
area
..-
1961 964 - 331 34_:i3
1971 1386 (+)422 357 (+)26 25.75
1981 2358 (+)972 384 (+)27 16.28
1991 2569 (+)211 420 (+)36 16.35
1997 2572 I+J 3 4::$4 (+)14 16.87
1998 2597 1+) 25 474 (+)40 18.25
1999 2692 I+J 95 490 1+)16 18.20
2000 2668 1-) 24 507 ·(+)17 19.00
2001 2735 (T) 67 510 (+) 3 18.05
2002 2756 (+) 21 511 (+J 1 18.54
Source : Tea SICltL"tics. TI'(l BOflrrJ. Kolk(lln. unriDlIs iSSII(,<;.
Note : (+/ Illdicates Increase mul (-J Indicates deerellse III (lbsolutc amount.

b. Production of Tea : India and World - World

production increased by 264 per cent during the period,
while Inuia's production enhanced by 133 per cent. India's
production to world production has substantially reduced
from 41.60 per ccnt to 26.65 per cent. Avcragc annual
rate of growth of tea production in India stood at. 3.70 per
cent while it was 7.34 per cent for t.he World. India's
share in the world tea production is given in Table 2.

Table 2 : India's Share in World Tea Production

(Production in million kg.)
Year World Jcrease/ India Absolute India's share
decrease increase/ as percentage
decrease of world
production
-----
1961 851 -._- 354 - 41.flO
1971 1348 (+) 4H7 435 (+) HI 32.27
19H1 1884 (+) 5~i() 560 (+) 125 29.72
1991 2639
--
(+) 7;'5 754 (+) 194 28.57
1997 2799 (+) wo 810 (+) GB 28.94
199~ 3058 (+1250 874 (+) 64 2H.58
.- --- -_
1999 2971 (-I 87 _. 826 f--(T4~ 27.~0
2000 29H9 (-I lH 846 (+J 20 2H.30
2001 :J091 (+1 102 H54 (+J 9 27.62
2002 :1099 (+) 8 --'-82£3- r---- I-J 28 26.65
Source: Teu Stu tis tics. Ten Bcxud. Kolkata. various issues.
Note· ; (+/ 11IClicates Increase nllu (-J Indicates dt.'C'rc(ls(· In absolute amount.

6
 c. Export of Tea : India and the World - India is the
largest exporter of tea in the world. However, Sri Lanka
has been closely following India's footsteps. India's share in
world export expressed in terms of percentage has declined
between 1961 and 2002, but there is only marginal decline
in absolute quantum of exports. Tea has remained, on an
average, at 200 million kgs. during the period. The main
reason for fall of India's share for the last 40 years is that
a large quantum of tea has been retained for domestic
consumption. World exports increased by 158 per cent and
India's exports reduced by 2.43 per cent during the period
from 1961 to 2002. India's share in the world exports
declined from 37.18 to 14.04 per cent during the same
period (Table - 3).

Table 3 : India's share In World Tea Exports

(Ezports in miWon kg.)
Year World Absolute India Absolute IncUa's
increase/ increase/ share as
decrease decrease percentage
of world
ezport

1961 554 - 206 - 37.18

1971 667 (+) 113 202 (-4) 30.28
19tH 818 (+) 115 241 (+)39 29.46
1991 1079 (+)261 212 (-29) 19.65
1997 1207 (+)128 203 (-) 9 16.82
1998 1308 (+)101 210 (+) 7 16.06
1999 1265 (-) 43 192 1-) 18 15.18
2000 1334 (+) 69 207 (+)15 15.52
2001 1394 (+) 60 183 (-)24 13.13
.-
2002 1432 (+) 38 201 (+)18 14.04

Source : Tea SlfJIL<;lics. Tea Boclrd. Kulkala. IJWioUS L<;sues.

Note : (+) ilillical('.<; increase ami (-) indicates decrease 111 absolute amoullt.

v. Tea Industry: Earner of Foreign Exchange - A considerable

volume of tea is bein~ exported from India and this has ~iv(_'n the
tea industry a place of importance in the national economy of
India as an carner of foreign exchange. Table - 4 shows the value
of exports of tea as compared to total value of exports of all
commodities.

7
 Table 4 : Value of Exports of Tea to Total Value of
Exports of All Commodities
(b. in crore)
Year Value of Absolute Value of Absolute Share of tea
exports change exports change to value of
of an of tea@ ezports of
commo- aU com-
ditle.· moditles
1961-62 661 - 122 - 18.46
1971-72 1608 (+) 947 184 (+) 62 11.44
1981-82 7808 (+) 6200 406 (+)222 5.20
1991-92 33452 (+)25644 1194 (+)788 3.57
1997-98 38752 (+) 5300 1945 (+)751 5.01
1998-99 39892 (+) 1140 2129 (+)184 5.33
1999-2000 41285 (+) 1393 1867 (+)262 4.52
2000-01 41875 (+) 590 1967 (+)100 4.70
2001-02 .,42453 (+) 578 2157 (+)190 5.08

vi. Tea Industry as a Source of Employment - Tea plantation

industry not only occupies a very important role in the
national economy as an earner of foreign exchange but it also
provides gainful employment to a large number of people. This
industry. which is largely labour intensive provides
employment to a large number of female workers. The
industry accounted for 20 per cent and 10 per eent of the
total labour force employed in the private sector in 1961 and
in 2002 respectively. The ratio of tea labour to total labour
employed in the private sector has registered a deeUning trend
in recent years.
Table 5 : Ratio of Tea Labour to Total Labour Employed
(Number In lakhs)
Year Total number of Number of Share
labour employed labour employed
in private sector In tea@@
-
1961 50 10 19.8
1971 67 8 11.3
1981 73 8 11.0
1991 76 8 10.5
1997 79 8 10.1
1998 80 8 10.0
f-- -
1999 79 8 10.1
2000 80 .. 8 10.0
2001 81 8 10.0
... -
2002 82 8 10.0
SotollTl' : q~ Economic Sumt'!j. Gol. @t'D Tt'u SlnllsHcs. Tea Boord. Kolkata

8
vli. Contribution of Tea industry to Total Revenue - Tea is a
commodity which is subject to direct taxation in the form of
excise duty, export duty, and cess. under Tea Act 1951. In
addition to these, various state levies are also imposed on the
tea industry and these varied from State to State. Revenue
earned by way of export duty, excise duty and cess is
presented in Table-6 below :

Table 6 : Share of Tea Revenue by Total Revenue

eRs. in crore)
Year Total Revenue earned Tea revenue
revenue· through tea@ in percent-
age to total
, Export duty Central
excise duty Cess Total
revenue

1961-62 1037 9.83 10.78 - 20.61 1.98

1971-72 4027 - 34.35 - 34.35 0.85
1981-82 11573 - 63.51 4.45 67.96 0.50
1991-92 35960 - 70.56 10.88 81.44 0.19
1997-98 40851 - - - - 0.06
1998-99 42015 - 115.98 26.07 142.04 0.33
1999-2000 43765 - 128.84 25.17 154.01 0.35
-
2000-01S 44978 -- 141.27 25.06 166.33 0.36
2001-02 46123 - 162.52 25.34 187.86 0.40

• Source: Dlredor Genc.·ml oj Commercial Illtelligence and Statistics. Tea Statistics. Various
Issues. Tea Bourd. I\olkata.

viii. Tea as a Supporter of Allied Activities - Tea is the

mainstay of plywood industry in our country. Tea produced in
differcnt regions is mostly packed in plywood chests for sale at
the audions and for exports. However. rccently various other
altenlatives have b~en evolved in place of plywood chests. Tea
helped the coal industry. Huge amount of coal is required for
running the factorics. Of course. in recent times. instead of
coal. gas is being used. Further. tea industry facilitates the
fertilizer industry and forest industry. It supports the
industries engaged in the manufacture of pesticides.
insecticides and weedicldes. It also adds to the development of
various industries like Iron. steel, cement. aluminium foils. tin
plates. metal fittings, paper. card boards. transport and
warehousing.

9
3. Features of Tea Industry
The essential features of the tea industry include (I) Farming and
Manufacturing. (ti) Geographical Locations. (iii) Marketing. (iv)
Exports. (v) Internal Consumption. (vi) Imposts. (vii) Labour and
(viii) Development Measures.

i. Fanning and Manufacturing

It starts from preparation of Kseedbed" and goes on to the

packing of tea. Seedlings are grown in the nursery generally
for one or two years and are transplanted in the fields. The
transplanted young tea plants require levelling and deep
hoeing under shade trees. Proper growth of tea plants demand
planting of shade trees. timely application of manure and
fertilizers. maintenance of good drainage. control of pest
attacks and plant diseases. Besides. pruning and plucking are
essential operations for inducing vegetative growth and
ensuring continuous supply of green flushes as well as
improvin~ quality of manufactured tea.

a. Withering - The plucked green leaves are spread out in

racks made of wiremesh or hessian cloth arranged in
withered shades. They are kept for a period of 18 hours
for a good wither. During this period they loose a good
deal of moist ure and become plaCid for rolling which
breaks down the leaf cells and release the juice. and
engymes contained in them. The withered leaf is fed in to
the rolling machine which twists the leaf and breaks the
leaf eells. The leaf juice oozes out and becomes exposed to
the atmosphere. A process of oxidation (called fermen-
tation] begins with change in colour and release of its
characteristic aroma.

b. Rolling and Fermenting - The rolled leaf leaves the

roller in the shape of twisted balls and are placed under roll
brakers. The leaf is taken to the fermenting room. the
atmosphere of which is kept cool or humid. Sometimes this
is done with the help of wet screens or SUitable water
spheres. The time taken for f('rmentation which depends on
various factors. may vall' from 20 minutes to 60 minutes.
Having received desin~d degree of fermentation. the
fermented leaves are removed to driers which consist of
large enclosed chambers having trays inside where

10
 fermented leaves are put. The nature of drying and intensity
of heat affects the quality of tea.

c. Grading and Packing - The manufactured tea which

comes out of the dryers is then sorted and graded with the
help of sorting machinery which consists of mechanically
vibrated sieves or tables. The larger particles are often cut
into smaller bits with the help of cutt1n~ machine before
grading. The grading of tea only refers to size of process leaf
not to quality or flavour. 'Ole two main classifications in the
main grade are leaf grade and broken grade. Broken grades
include small particles resulting from the shifting and sorting
of tea and leaf grades consist of large particles left after
broken grades are removed.

Ii. Geographical .Locations, etc.

In India. tea growing regions are located in the monsoon belt

comprising Assam. West Bengal and the foot hills of the
Himalayas in the North and moist slopes and thc plateaus of
the Western Ghats in the South. The climate and the soil of
these widely separated locations exhibit wide variations. the
impact of which is naturally noticed in wide difference in
productivity and cultural practices.

a. Area, Production and Yield of Tea - Tea is mainly

produced in Assam. West Bengal. Tamil Nadu and Kerala
and also produced to a small extent in Tripura. K.:'lmataka.
Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Total arca under tea
stood at 331 thousand hectares of which North East and
Eastern India cont.ribute 77.6 per cent and South India
22.4 per cent in 2002. Besides. tea is also cultivated in
Mizoram. Manipur. Orissa. Arunachal Pradesh. Meghalaya.
Uttaranchal etc. Number of tea estates. art'a. production
and yield of tea according to states/districts are ~iven in
Annexure - I.
b. Zonewise Class(/ication of Tea etc. - Tea units and tea
growing regions are classified into revenue units and
zones. At present there are two zones. Zone I includes
Dibrugarh. Lakhimpur. Shibsagar. and Darrang (exluding
Barsola circle in North India) while Zone II includes all
other North Indian districts excluding Barsola Circle of
Darrang and also South Indian districts.

11
 c. Area-wise Distribution - Tea estates are distributed
according to the various size groups. Ninety eight per cent
of the total tea estates belong to the size group of upto
10.12 hectares and the remaining 2 per cent falls in the
size group of above 10.12 hectares. Out of this size group.
as many as 200 tea estates have average size holdings
between 50 to 100 hectares while about 300 tea estates
have holding between 100 to 200 hectares and 400 tea
estates are in the size group of above 200 to 400 hectares.
Moreover. a little less than 400 tea estates have size
holding above 400 hectares.

d. Agewisc Classification of States - Bushes are the

assets of the tea estate-owners as they provide green
leaves which are the basic raw materIal for made/green
tea. The composition of assets i.e. bushes are classified
into three age groups viz. tender [below 5 yearsl. economic
[5-50 years] and old labove 50 yearsl. On an average.
30 per cent of the total area under tea contain bushes
which have attained the economic age group while 65 per
cent are old age bushes and only 5 per cent are tender
bushes. As about two-thirds of the total area is covered by
overage bushes. there is a need for rehabilitation
programmes in the form of new planting (extension/
replanting] etc.

iii. Primary Marketing

Tea being a perishable commodity should be disposed

off quickly and the economic viability of the tea Industry
depends crucially on profitable disposal of products. There
are various modes of disposal of tea viz. i.e.auction. exfactory.
and forward contract. About 76 per cent of total tea Is
disposed off through auctions while forward ('ontraC't and
exgarden sales constitute 6 per cent and 18 per cent
respectively. Details of Primary Marketing of Indian Tea is
given in Table-7.

12
 Table 7 PrImary Marketing of Indian Tea
1999 2000 2001
YEAR Qty. In .~ to Total Qty. In ~ to Total Qty. In j% to Total
Tb.kp Sale. Tb.kg. Sale. Tb.kg. Sales
NORTH INDIA
Calcutta Auction 87801 14.09 95926 14.97 94482 14.52
GuwahaU Auction 145072 23.28 159427 24.88 137794 21.18
Slligurl Auction 86789 13.93 79145 12.36 71791 11.03
Amr1tsar Auction 556 0.09 388 0.06 319 0.05
Teaauctioll.com - - 80 0.01 340 0.05
Sub total North India 320218 51.39 334966 52.28 304726 46.83
London Auction - - - - - -
Total Auctioll 320218 51.38 334966 52.28 304726 46.83
Export under Fe 32886 5.28 36032 5.62 34145 5.25
Ex-Garden Sale 270155 43.34 269758 42.1 311936 47.92
Total flale 623259 100 640756 100 650807 100.00
SOUTH INDIA
Cochln Auction 59632 29.42 66132 32.08 58995 29.04
Coonoor Auction 79285 39.12 70967 34.42 74555 36.71
Coimbatore Auction 20262 10 33274 16.14 2511B 12.37
Calcutta Auction 1371 0.68 2188 1.06 294 0.14
Sub total South India 160550 79.22 172561 83.7 158962 78.26
London Au(·tlon - - - - - -
Total Audlon 160550 79.22 172561 83.7 158962 78.26
Export under Fe 5543 2.73 6995 3.39 4850 2.39
Ex-Garden Sale 36583 18.05 26610 12.91 39304 19.35
Total Sale 202676 100 206166 100 203116 100.00
ALL INDIA
Indian Allcllon 480768 58.32 507527 59.93 463688 54.30
London Am'tlon - - - - - -
Total Auction 480768 58.21 507527 59.9:i 463688 54.30
Export under Fe 38429 4.65 43027 5.08 38995 4.57
Ex-Garden Sale 306738 :17.14 296368 34.99 351240 4113.00
Total Sale 825935 100 846922 100 853923 100.00
Source: Teu Statistics 2000·2001 i."slwd IJU Tea Bocml Q{ India. Koikala

iv. Exports - India's exports of tea during the last 5 decades

have shown a fluctuating trend. It is interesting to note that
India's exports of tea has been hovering around 200 In kg.
and is exported to about 35 countries in the World. The
quantity exported from India was reduced to 180 million kg in
2001 as against 204 million kg in 2000 but value realisation
has not been reduced to that extent because of equal unit
price IRs. 89.40 per kg).

Det.ails of quantity and value of tea exports from India during

1954-55 to 2001-02 is given below;-

13
 Table 8 Quantity and Value of Tea Exports from India
[E%cludlng Instant Tea)
Year Quantlt)' Value 'Unit Price Year Quantity Value 'Unit Price
Th. Kgs Tb.Ra Ra./Kg Tb.Kgs Th.Ra Rs./Kg
1fl!'14-511 208462 1482316 7.11 1954 203195 1:107523 6.43
1955-56 IR:m39 1096448 5.97 1955 166708 1136132 6.82
1~56-::;7 2:nOf-lb 1451344 6.23 1956 237484 1428249 6.01
1~157-511
I ~58 :;!J
! }I t: .;~.):-)

21i".::.o:2
I 143fi435 7.49 1957 200786 1233859 6.15
1296!J53 5.97 1958 229503 1365859 5.95
IY5H-''0 21:')'I!j!J 12901:H6 5.99 1959 213680 1:.160135 5.9
19fiO-GI 1 19G47:1 6.22 1960 19:i063 1199883 6.21
l!l(j 1-62 ! 20532!) 122i(iHO 5.95 1961 206292 1242513 6.02
1962-63 220kfl() I 12\11;000 5.H7 1962 211826 1235339 5.83
1963-64 20!):l:.!H ! 12:JHiH5 5.88 I 96:} 223542 I 32a7 10 5.92
1964-65 212:1:1:; 121()(iri7 5.137 1964 2101123 1249012 5.93
1965-66 Hl73~:; 114f!:J74 o,.f!2 1!)65 19!X165 114(1747 5.77
1966-67 1903Wl 15621H9 k.21 W60 I 7~J205 1565921 8.74
1967·('18 2033:S:S 1801974 lum Iq67 21:JG76 1800384 8.85
1968-69 2ooB24 156:>092 7.7\'1 19fj8 208440 Imi4H25 7.99
1969-70 174112 1245029 7.15 l!)(j9 16H709 1205371 7.14
1970·71 199139 1k42470 !).25 1970 202016 14fi7533 7.36
1971·72 214:l17 1609204 7.51 1971 202052 1536678 7.61
1972-73 1932211 14729:35 7.62 I!J72 I!JHI95 1511439 7.63
1973-74 1902fjfj 14484!.l0 7.61 1!j~':1 IHHI92 1-\27072 7.58
1974-75 225057 22:35355 !1.93 1\174 :~ 11),):,3 1!l27972 9.16
1975-76 21140!) 2382!l4R 11.27 I 'rio, I :~ I"; I:.!'l 24411592 11.22
1976-77 242418 2954777 12.l!J W7Ii I ~,: l;'l"i I1 27:11364 11.69
':!: ;,';:i7
1977-7B
1978-79
1979-80
221522
177:127
20844H
56:17117
35!111!J3
37fJH!.I(i 1
25.45
20.25
18.08
IB77
Ifl7B
1U7!l
I Iii j(l;) 1
1~)' I~ .: " ,
I 54IGI57
:if,2H916
I '11' IH401
23.59
20.61
1H.12
1980-81 2317:~G 4:1527:\0 IS.7!! WHO 2:.!.·1()~~·1 I :·/.:'I)'l.n- I!U5
1981-82 224200 40r.8252 11-1.15 I!~HI 2412-1';
IWIV:I:}
I :",",,',:i2:,
1:' 1'2541 18
18.72
1,982-83 194090 369-\4H2 19.0:1 1!IH:.!
1983-84 202312 5575549 27.56 191:1:1 20H47£l II :dUiI ~,j 24.79
19H4-85
1985-86
198(;-87
217401
2142:14
196232
771:.11-189
647!17!16
57f)4783
:15.48
30.25
29.53
19H4
IH85
IUI:I6
217()40 7,1(>.:);,1
21·1021 I fi·I:,.~~lfi(J
20a14!1 I !i:-<'I'(:,)O
II :14.12
:12.49
28.59
1987-88 20lKlO 6277()k8 :H.I IHH7 20lHOI 1;; ";"IflG ~II.()()

19H8-R9 20407:, ,,:3527!)9 31.13 I9MH 20095(; (il~U.'l7 I :30. l'l

19k9-90 210615 904n:.ll 42.96 l!)R!J 211622 H·lIjm)2~1 ,
19~O-91 19H240 ](j(j2(l!l:19 53,58 1990 209005 I 104 I !l()7 !)'l..H 1
1991-92 215HiG 11%4(i25 !i5.1i I I!1!J1 201720 II :m:11 :11; !):i:}·}
19~12-93 17H9:>O IO:HG42fl 57.(,5 1!1!12 173:158 !l717402 f)(i.O:'
1993-94 15:W17 10:m!iB!i5 67.78 HI!):i 17:n26 11:125271 G!;.I!i
1994-95 1:;(JH:16 !J(j:lr}4!)H 03,HH 19!14 14\):117 !)Uf)2:3J4 1)'1.1;4
1995-96 Ifj(i:!:l!l 1218,12<1H 7~1.3 190:; 1(;714:1 1190H077 71.24
1996-97 W7172 ! I '!;.:;H]I)7 75.IH I !I~!n lIi(l004 I~07()!J7H 75.4-\
1997-98 20877:! I!, ; ',;I:..!07 ~j:j. IH I IU!J7 'l.[XJ71:1 17:lIH47:l H5.7!)
1991-1-99 20~14:\ 1 2121",720 \o4.H~ I !J!Jfl 207(i.10 22:IH:\087 tn7.k
19!19-2000 1898:17 l!Sfi72H22 98.:1(; .. 1m)!) IH\)O!12 1902·1~169 IOO.G1
2000-2001 200770 1HOIifiH!i: I B!J.!J!1 ~O()() 20·1:153 IH27(XJ24 H!l.41
2001-2002 187407 1(i215H!J7 H(i.!i:1 2001 17!IH57 I (i022Ofi() H!I.O~

Sollr("(~: Tea Slntfslics 20()()·:.w0 I Lo;SUl'U IJ!J Tt,(1 Docml (!( [lidin. KCllkata

14
 v. Internal Consumption - Internal consumption of tea grew
appreciably. It was 31 per cent of total production in 1947
which went up to 78 per cent of the total production in 2004.
Thus the task before the government is to fix up trade
priorities. If the priority Is to make available tea in the
domestic market. the export front is neglected. On the other
hand. if the priority is to ensure maximization of export
earnings. the tea may not be available in the internal market
at reasonable prices.
There are various demographic. economic. social and
psychological factors that determine demand for a commodity
like tea in a developing economy like India. Income. prices of
tea and its substitutes and complements. change in consumer
.taste. preferences. population. social satisfaction. and health
aspects are some of the important factors in this regard.
Another factor is urbanization. the pace of which in the
developing countries is very rapid. The details of internal
consumption are given below.
Table 9 : Estimates of Internal Consumption of Tea in India
Year Internal Actual Increase Percentage
Consumption or decrease [Increase or
{in million kg} {in mllllon kg} decrease)
1971 221 - -
1980 340 125 56.56
1981 360 14 4.04
1982 372 12 3.33
1983 386 14 3.76
1984 400 14 3.62
1985 415 15 3.75
1986 431 16 3.85
1987 446 15 3.85
1988 462 16 3.42
1989 480 18 3.58
1990 500 20 5.65
19~-)} 511 11 4.1
1992 524 13 2.54
1993 537 13 2.48
1994 550 13 2.42
1995 562 12 2.18
1996 580 18 3.2
1997 597 17 2.93
1998 615 18 3.01
1999 633 18 2.92
2000 653 20 3.14
2001 673 20 3.06
2002 693 20 2.97
Sourc(' : Variou..'l issues q( tea Statistics. Tea Bot-ml. Kolkatu
i r OJ
.'11, \, L}-. ~.
'-:---:-~",,':~'.~,
~ \. I , _..
...
, .. ' ~
~. T S-'ENI..~rs 1 15
• •• .... &..

li' , \'! ~ .', : '1' : ' : ' Po .-:; y

Gi. V I:, B/.::::;;·, L.~H-LtO cell,
 vi. Major Taxes - Tea is a major source of revenue to the
National Exchequer. The major imposts are excise duty. cess
on tea as well as various Central and State taxes like sales
tax. entry tax. agriculture income tax etc. Present taxes and
duties [Central Levy and State Levy) on Tea in India are given
below.

Central Levy
1. Tea Cess
(a) 30 paise per kg on .tea produced except in Darjeeling
Plantation Oist.
(b) 12 paise per kg on tea produced in Darjeeling Plantation
district.
2. Excise Duty
(a) Re. 1 per kg on tea imposed on 01.03.2002 has been
abolished w.eJ 01.03.2003. However. an additional excise duty
of Re.l/-per kg has been introduced w.e.f.01.03.2003 for
development purposes.
(b) 16% ad valorem on Instant Tea falling under heading 2101.20
,
3. Ezp0r:t Duty - NIL -
4. Import Duty
(a) 100% ad valorem on teas falling under heading 09.02
(b) 35% on Instant Tea falling under heading 210 1.20F
(c) 7.5% on teas Imported under Indo Sri Lanka FTA
(d) NIL - when imported for re-export under Duty Exemption
Scheme and/or by EOU/EPZ/SEZ units
5. Corporation Tax 35% plus 2% surcharge
6. Central Sales Tax
(a] 2% on teas sold at Kolkat.a/Siltgurt/Coonoor and Coimbatore
Auctions.
(b) NIL on teas sold at Guwahati Auction.

.
(c) 4% on ex-garden sale against Form - C
(d) 8% on teas sold to unreg~_,tered dealers.

16
State Levy
[A)Assam :
1. Assam Sales Tax
Ca) 2% on all teas sold through Guwahati Auction, Orthodox
teas are exenapted.
(b) 8% on sales outside auction but within Assana.

2. Assam Tazation on Specified Land (Amendment) Act, 1994

(a) 20 paisa per Kg on green leaf produced by producers
having tea area of 40 hectares.
,(b) 32 paisa per Kg on green leaf produced by producers
having tea area above 40 hectares in Upper Assanl.
(cl 29 paisa per Kg on green leaf produced by producers
having tea area above 40 hectares in Cachar/Barak valley.
(d) Producers having tea area upto 4 hectares exenapted.

3. Agricultural Income Tax

Upto Rs. 1 lakh - 40% and above Rs. 1 lakh - 45%

(B) West Bengal

1) Sales Tax (w.e.f. 01.01.2000)
a) Tea sold in Kolkata or Siliguri Auction
i) Tea sold to registered dealer for exports : Nil
il) Tea sold to registered dealer for re-sale
in original form : 1%
iii) Tea sold to an unregistered dealer : 8%

b) Tea sold other than in Kolkata or Siligurt Auction

i) Tea sold to registered dealer for exports: Nil
ii) Tea sold to registered dealer for re-sale
in original fonn (Fonn 13 requIred) : 1%
iii) Tea sold to an unregistered dealer : 8%

17
 2) Inter-State ~e

i) Tca Purchased in Kolkata or Siliguri auctions

in course of Inter-State trade : 2% CST
ii) Tea sold ex-garden in the course of
Inter-State trade 4% CST

3) Purchase Tu
Tea purchased for blending/packing but disposed of
otherwise than by way of sale in West Bengal : 1%

4) West Bengal Rural Employment 12 paise per kg of green

and Production Cess. leaf produced for estates
(w.e.f. 01.04.1981) producing ovcr 2.5 lakh
kgs of green leaf.

5) West Bengal PrImary Education 4 paise per kg of green

Cess. leaf produced for estates
(w.e.f. 01.04.1981) producing over 2.5 lakh
kgs of green leaf.

6) Agriculture Income Tax 45% brought down to

30% w.e.f 01.04.2003.

C) Tamil Nadu
1. Sales Tax
(a) 4% on sale through Auction
(b) 8% on sale through other than Auction
Infrastructure Surcharge 5% on Sales Tax

2. Inter-State Sale - 2% on tcas sold in Auction for inter-state

sale
3. Agricultural Income Tax
(a) Upto Rs. 25.000 - 45%
(b) Above Rs. 25.000 to Rs. 1 Lakh - 50%
(e) Above Rs. 1 J..akll. to Rs. 3 Lakhs - 55%
(d) Above Rs. 3 Lakns to Rs. 10 Lakhs - 60%
(e) Above Rs. 10 Lakhs - 65%

18
D) Kerala

1. Sales Tax (1) Unbranded 8%

(ti) Branded 8%
Additional Sales Tax 15%

2. Inter-State Sale ..... 2% on teas sold in Auction for inter-

state sale

3. Agricultural Income Tax

(a) Upto Rs. 25,000 - 45%

,(b) Above Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 1 Lakh - 50%

(c) Above Rs. 1 Lakh to Rs. 3 Lakhs - 55%
(d) Above Rs. 3 Lakhs to Rs. 10 Lakhs - 60%
(e) Above Rs. 10 Lakhs - 65%

4. Plantation Tax [w.e.f. 0l.04.2000J

i) First 5 hectares Nil
ti) Next 3 hectares Rs. 350 per hectare
iii) Next 3 hectares Rs. 500 per hectare
iv) Next 3 hectares Rs. 900 per hectare
v) Upto 500 hectares Rs. 1500 per hectare.

E) Karnataka

1. Sales Tax - (I) Unbranded ....... 8% - 12%

(ti) Branded .......... 15%

2. Tum Over Tax

(a) Above Rs. 5 lakhs but less than Rs. 5 crores - 1%

(b) Above Rs. 5 crores but less than Rs. 10 crores - 2%
(c) Above Rs. 10 crores -3%

3. Infrastructure Development Tax - 5% on Tax payable

19
 4. Agricultural Income Tax
(a) Upto Hs. 1 lakh - 30%
(b) Above 1<5. 1 lakh to Us. 5 lakh - Rs. 30.000 plus 40% of
the amount by which total income exceeds Rs. 1 lakh
(c) Where the total income exceeds Rs 5 lakh - Rs 190.00
plus 40% of the amount by which total income exceeds
Rs. 5lakhs.
Source - Various issues of Tea Statistics

Taxes levied in other producing States, non-tea producing

States/Union Territories
State Central Sales State Sales other Tuea
Tax Tax
Andhra Pradesh 4% 10% CST without Form 'C' 10%
lilhar N.A. 10% Additional tax 1%. CST
without Form 'C' 10%
Delhi 2% 5.5% -
Goa. Daman. Diu N.A. 4% -
(w,c.f.30.5.95)
f-------- 0- 1-- -
GUJarat 4% 8% 12% packages below 20 kgs,
8% for packages above 20 kgs
+ Sur~hnrge 100m. Octroi 1%
Haryana 4% S% CST without Form 'C 10%
-- .. ----
Himachal Pradesh 4% 7% - --
Madhya Pradesh
-- I---
N.A. H%
-
On loose lt~a and IO'J.h on
--
h~a In Packets
--
Maharalihtra 4%
----- f----
8%
-
SlIn'har~e 10%
----
Ml·~halaya 4% 7%
--1-------
Surcharge 1%
----- '--
Mll. oram NIL NIL -
----- 1----
Nagaland 4% 6% -
-
Orissa 4% 12% ~l1lry lax 1%. CST without
l'orrn 'C' 12%
------_
Pondl(~hcry 3% ~i% -
-
Punjah
1------- .__ -
2%
---_ 4%... --
1~IJilslhan 4% 4% -
r.r-- .~ '-'- -
rl!Jura
UI (ar Pradesh
4%
4% . ---
8%
(3°A,
---
Sln~le point and additional
tax 2%
Slkklm 4'Vo 8%
S(]~(r('(' : Varioll..<; ;.0;.<;1«'.0; (!{ I('a Slali,slics, Tf't'l HOllrd. Kolkulu

20
 vii. Labour - Tea plantation in the country provides
employment opportunities to the rural poor living in the
remotest areas. It is a highly labour intensive industry and
engages maximum employment per household. Labourers are
employed in the tea industry both in fields and factory
operations. They are mainly resident and also outside
workers. Resident workers are the permanent labourers of
the estate whereas outside workers are temporruy and casual
labourers. Both resident and outside workers are again
divided into male. female. children and adolescent depending
upon the nature of the work involved. Productivity and
labour per hectare is given below.

Ta'\lle 10 Productivity and Labour per Hectare during 2000

(a' North India

State Dlatrlct No. of Area Prod. Eat.Avt· Lab. ProdD. ProclD.
Eatatea in ha. lD Dally per per per lab.
Th.Kg Labour ha. ha. (kg)
Maam Darrang 829 41037 77030 114629 2.79 1877 672
Gonlpara 249 3460 6297 9508 2.75 1820 662
Kammp 54 3442 4302 H918 2.59 1250 482
Dlbrul-larh 21388 93076 163426 197145 2.12 1756 829
Lakhlmpur 326 4815 9068 14056 2.92 1883 645
NowAoll1-l 213 7f)94 11788 18910 2.37 1475 623
SlbsaAar (a) 15735 74807 119978 156825 2.1 lG04 765
Karbl Anl-tlong 143 1869 1945 4512 2.41 1041 431
N. Cadlilr 8 4004 6179 10320 2.58 1543 599
Cadlar 206 3:l008 49206 67708 2.12 1537 727
Total Asaam 39 un 26652 449219 6021531 2.26 1686 746
Weat Bengal Darj("ellng 85 17228 9281 51515 2.99 5:~9 180
Teral (hi 910 20548 43291 :38420 1.87 2107 1127
Dooars (to) 545 G!1703 128964 163524 2.35 1850 789
Total W.Bengal 1540 107479 181536 253459 2.36 1689 716
Othel1l Tripura 292 6623 6431 12105 1.83 971 531
Bihar 244 1350 538 50 0.04 39H 10760
Ultar Pradesh II 1068 264 387 0.36 247 682
Manlpur 39 907 96 504 0.56 106 190
Slkklm 74 296 105 :i92 1.32 355 268
r--'
Anmadlal
I'radt~sh 50 2176 993 2086 0.96 456 476
NaAaland 94 1214 43 228 0.19 35 189

21
State Dlatrict No. of Area Prod. £at AVI. Lab. Prodn. ProdD.
ERtate. lD. ba. lD. Dally per per perlab.
Tll,Kg Labour Ila. Ila. (kg)
Olissa 1 214 105 279 1.3 491 376
Hima.:hal
j-'n1desh 3(179 2325 1247 1033 0.44 536 1207

Me!!halaya 15 351 140 239 0.68 399 586

t-
, Mtzorum 12 391 :i9 107 0.27 100 364
___ ~hen Total 4511 16915 10001 17410 1.03 591 574
North India Total 45202 390906 640756 873400 2.23 1639 734
(hJ South India
TamU Nadu Cotmbalol't" 52 11764 32H31 25281 2.15 2791 1299
Kanynklllllart 7 4:~4 I:J7 1fi7 0.38 316 820
Madura! 6 973 2660
.-.-•.. .•.._-_
3078 . 3.16 27:14 864
422
NiI~lrts
,___._._ .. _---- I-- f)0549 60427 95W4 225440_. 3.73 1575
Tlnmdvell 4 800 9!IO IRI4 2.27 123~_ 546
-
Tamll Nadu 60618 74398 131812 255780 3.44 1772 IU5
.. ~--

Kerala Wynaml H6 5fi57 12307 12706 2.25 217() 9£i9

Idukki[dl ·196U 26750 5140f) 5H:199 2.18 Hl22 880
Kollilym
--- 954 MD 30H IIOU 1.32 3117 278

IPa1l.(hat 33 8f)() 22G7 l!l58 2.3 2f;()7 1158

---- r - - ' - 1----.
270 GG7
Quiloll
---- 104
...
1:14H :164 546 0.41
Trldllir I 530 IA!16 15:19 2.9 3577 12:32
..
Tr! .... lIlrlrlllll () 9(,5 39!) H2!) 0.86 41:' 4tH
r---- .-- ... - - -.- i---....-. f--._.-.
-
..
Kerala 6153 36940 68947 77086
,...-_. -.-.-- - . - f..-- .. _-.
2.09 -_
1866
.._- 894
Kamataka CUllr!.:
, - - - ... - .... _
.. - _.- .
7 __ 2m)
...... _._-- _......(;IW: _ fi47 2.W 22UH
-- _ ~.~

t
..

ChkkmallgahlJ"
---- --.-- -t-
..
2D
-----
14:lH
..-
:~!i21
-- - I-- . - ._-.--- ..
2!):11 1.77 24()(; I:ml
._--- ' - - - ' - -
Ilassall
-_.--
1
1 - - - - _.._ - - --
"95 ... .11 ""
..--. . .. -- -6ll
- -
... --_
],55 ..
:lO:S!)
f--- ...--.... _
- .. 1!J62
37 5407 3789 1.79
-1427
li:"';~x_;i"~\ :nUl,';;;;
Kamataka 2122 2548
.-
South India . 66"""' 2.9" IHI7 1112
Total All India i
112010 S04:I(j(j 8·lW22 121 O()~iS 2.4 W7!) 700

Bourn' : Various issue's o/" 'li'fl SInlislic·.'. Tea [lOflfr1. I\olkntn

(el) Jllr.ludill!l Mikir lIi1/s &. Nortll CurlInI' uplo 198!J (b) IlIdwlili'l W"st Dirll~ifJur (e) Iliclw1ill(j Couch
lJellClr. (el] lndudillcJ l~rtI(lkljlCIIII

viii. Development Measures - To increase productlon and

improve qUillity of tea, there is a need to adopt various short
t.erm and nll·dilllll krm nwasures. Further. tea cultivation has
t.o be exteuckd on a wickr s(.:aic to non-t.raditional areas
keeping ill view tohc climate sllitahility. The existing
manufacturillg capc.1cily has 10 be augmented for scientific
processing in large estates. Additional provisions may be made
for innovatioll and modernization of tea faeturics and for

22
 construction of new labour houses and ancillary buildings.

1110ugh the major part of the increase in output of tea comes

from the largest estates. socio-economic considerations
necessitate special efforts to improve productivity and income
of the existing large number of small garden units which are
commonly called family gardens. The entrepreneurs of the
family gardens are required to be provided with further
technical and financial supports on a cluster approach basis.
Besides. construction of modern tea factories in the
cooperative sectors. establishment of clonal multiplication
centre. for supply of improved planting materials. setting up
demonstration plots. are some of the activities which require
, to be strengthened in the interests of small tea planters.

For effective application of findings of tea research. it would

be necessary to organise additional suitable course in
technical training very frequently for persons employed in the
tea industIy as well as for those who opt for a career in tea
particularly in non-traditional areas.

4. Development of Tea Industry During 1850-2002

Development of tea industry in India can be grouped under two

major periods. 1. pre-Five Year Plan period (1850-1950] and 2. Five
Year plans (1952-2007J.

I. Pre-Five Year Plan Period (1850-1950] - The pre-Five Year

Plan period may again he slIh-divided into four periods :~ke (a)
period of rapid growt h 1H50-J H90. (b) period of stability 1890-
1918 (c) inter war period 19 I 8- 1939 ancl (ei) period of prosperity
1939-1950.

a. The Period of Rapid Growth [1850 to 1890/- The growth

of the Industry was remarkable during this period. Area under
tea was only 750 he('tares in 1852 whil(' it was 1.52.000
hectares in 1890 showing an annual average growth rate of
504 pcr cent Similarly. production was 97.000 l{g in 1850
and 57 million kg In I A90 accounting for an aVt~ragc annual
growth rate of 1466 per cent. Yield was 13H kg per hectare
which increased to 373 kg per hectare. The details arc given
below:

23
 Ite.... Year Avg.
annual
1850 1890 growth
rate
Area under C'ulUvation (In Th. ha.) 0.75 152 504
Production [In million kgsl 0.1 57 1466
Avera~e yield (kg/ha.) 130 373 5
Source . Various Issues oj Tea SLaLlstlcs. Tea Board. Kolkala

The vartous factors responsible for such progress were Govt..

grants on easy tenns and conditions to the planters. leasing
of land to the planters at a nominal rent. low investment cost
per acre of land varying between Rs.40 and Rs.70. emergence
of private entrepreneurs in cultivation of tea. availability of
labour in the early years. formation of Indian Tea Association
on May 18. 1881. spread of tea cultivation in Govt ..
plantation, introduction of improved method of manufacture in
1870 [Mechanical Roller in 1870, Dryer in 1877 and
mechanical packaging! formation of Calcutta Tea Brokers
Associatioin in 1879. operation of a daily paddlc steamer
service between Calcutta and GuwahaU in 1883. opening of
the first railway line in Assam (Jorhat PrOVincial and
Dibursadial in 1885 and establishment of the Calcutta Tea
Traders Association.
b. The Period of Stability [1890 to 1918J - The tea Industcy
witnessed all round developmcnt between 1890 and 1918.
Area increased from 152 thousand hectares to 275 thousand
hectares [average annual growth rate 2.9 per cent) while
production enhanced from 57 m kg to 173 m kg [average
annual growth ratc 7.3 per cent) and yields was enhanced
from 373 kg per hectare to 692 kg per hectare showing
average annual growth rate of 2.5 per cent.
Details of area, production, yield during periods of (I) rapid
growth and (ii) instability are shown below:
Items Year % In- Avg.
crease annual
over growth
1890 1918 1890 rate
---1 - - -
Arca under cultivation Iln"'rh.ha.' 152 275 80.BO2.90
--_--_. ._-
I'rodllc~tl[)n [In million k~s' 57 173 2m.50 7.30
Avcra~e yield Ikl-\/lIa.1 :J73 692 fiH,61 2.50
SlJwre : Variolls issw's !!r Tell S/nlislics. TI'Il IIIJwd. Kullen/a

24
 The factors which accelerated the growth of the industry
during the period were mainly development of tea into an
industry in South India towards the end of 1895. formation of
United Planters Associations of South India [UPASII at
Coonnoor in 1894 and other Associations in Assam and
Bengal; appointment of Dr. Mann as the SCientific Officer in
the laboratory of the Indian Museum in Calcutta to cany out
SCientific Research enactment of Tea Cess Act in 1903 by the
Govt.. of India to raise funds for tea propaganda abroad.
imposition of a levy of 28 paise per 100 kg of tea construction
of Assam-Bengal metre gauge railway line in 1910. setting up
of Scientific Department in 1909 by UPASI undertaking tea
research exclusively in 1924. shifting of research station from
'Assam to Tocklai in 191] importance of developing domestic
market for tea in 1918. direction of making provision in the
India Tea Cess Act for propaganda in India and formation of
Indian Tea Planters Association in Jalpaigurt in 1918.

c. Inter War Period [1918 to 19391 - The tea lndusUy durtng

the inter war period experienced many ups and down in its
growth. Area increased from 275 th.ha. to 337 th.ha.and
production from 173 m kg to 205 m kg during the period.
Increase in production was mainly due to expansion of area.
Average annual rate of growth of area was 1.1 per cent and
production was 0.9 per cent. There was a decline in yield rdte
by 0.1 per cent. The average annual rate of growth of tea ex-
ports was 0.5 per cent. while it was 2.9 per cent for internal
consumption and 1.2 per cent per head annual consumption.

Items Year % in- Avg.

crease annual
over growth
1818 1939 1918 rate

Area under cultivation [In Th.ha.) 275 337 22.50 1.10

f---
Production lin millioll k~s) 173 205 IH.IO 0.90

Average yield Ikg/ha.1 629 610 -3.00 -0.10

~-

ExpOIt (In million kg) 148 165 11.50 0.50

Internal Consumption lin. million Kg) 25 40 60.00 2.90

Per hcad consumption (In million kg) 0.1 0.13 25.00 1.20

Sow"Ct.' : Variolls is,o;IWS qf Tt'fl Statistics. Tm Board. Koikata

UAS LIBRARY GKVK

II~~~II ~11111~lIl1ll1lillll~111111
25
R-15162
 The worldwide depression of 1929 had its impact on tea. Tea
market was so depressed that it was unremunerative to go in
for tea cultivation. To sort out the problems the first
International Tea Agreement [ITA) was signed in 1933 and the
Tea Control Act 1933 was introduced. The International Tea
Committee [ITC). Tea Cess Committee 1937. India Tea Market
Expansion Board were also constituted

d. Period of Prosperity [J939 to 1950] - The outbreak of the

Second World war, introduction of bulk purchase scheme. end
of British Rule in India. further extension of Tea Agreement.
creation of Central Tea Board and establishment of new
auction centre at Cochin were the major events that led to
the prosperity of the tea industry. Althou~h there was a
decline in area by 6.2 per cent. production increased by 3.6
per cent and yield by 44 per cent. Similarly. Internal
consumption increased by 92 per cent. exports by 22 per
cent and per head consumption by 64 per cent. The position
of inter war period and period of prosperity is ~iven below:
Items Year percen- Avg.
tage In- annual
1939 1950 crease I growth
decrease rate
over 1939
Area under cultivation (In Th.ha.) 337 316 -6.20 -0.58
Production (In million kgsl 205 278 36.00 3.20
Average yield [kg/ha.) 610 881 44.00 4.00
l':xport of tea [In mlllion kg) 165 201 22.00 2.00
Internal Consumption (in.milli()n K~ 40 77 92.00 8.30
Per head consumption (In million kg) 0.13 0.2 64.00 5.80
Source: Vanou.o; /sSIU!S oj Tca SlGlII.~llcs, Tea Boarrl. Kolkala

II Post Five Year Plan

a. First Five Year Plan [J951-52 to J955-56] - DurinA the
First Plan period, the industry developed mainly due to
participation of private entrepreneurs. Avera~c annual rate of
growth of area was 0.3 per cent, production by 1.7 per cent
and yield by 1.4 pel" ccnl-The average annual Arowth of export
was 3.9 per cent. Lt1it value by 5.5 per cent and revenue from
central excise by 14.3 per cent and internal tea consumption
by 1.6 per cent.

26
IteDUl/putlculan Pollitiod as at the Percentagr ' Avg.
Increase llIUluaJ
commence- end of over growth
ment of plan Plan on 1951 rate
on 1.4.1961 31.3.1958
Area under cultivation 317 321 1.30 0.30
(In Th.ha.]
Production (In million kgs] 285 309 8.40 1.70
Avera!(e yield Ikg/ha.] 901 963 6.90 1.40
Export oftca (In million kg) 195 233 19.50 3.90
Value of export of lea 91 141 54.90 11.00
(in. crore R:;]
Unit vallie IRs. per kg] 4.7 6 27.70 5.50
f---.
Intcmal ronsumpllon 73 97 8.20 1.60
Ih) million kg]
Revenue from central 1.4 2.4 71.40 14.30
excise [In crore Rs]
Source . Vurious issues qf 1"eu SlatisUcs. Tea IJoa.rd. Kolkata

b. Second Five Year Plan [1956-57 to 1960-61/ - Although

average annual rate of growth of area declined by 1.7 per
cent, productIon and yield were enhanced by 2.9 per cent and
2.2 per cent respectively. export of tea declined by 2.4 per
cent and revenue from ccntral excise by 4.8 pcr cent but
internal tea consumption increased by 8.9 per cent.
Items/partlcu!ara Poaltlon as at the Percentage Avg.
increa.e annual
commence- end of over growth
ment of plan Plan on 1956 rate
on 1.4.1956 31.3.1961
Area under l'ultlvatloll 361 3:JI -8.30 -1.70
(In TIl.ha.)
Pfodul'lInn (in million kgsl 309 355 14.00 2.90
Average yield (kg/ha.] 963 1070 11.11 2.20
Export of ka (in mllliun kW 233 205 -12.00 -2.40
Value of .. xport o.-tea 143 124 ·5.:iO -3.10
tin emf" R.'II
Unit vahle' ,,~s. per kru 6 6 1.50 0.30
Perrell t ngl' of foreign 24.5 18.5 ·23.tm -4.00
exchang,· ('anllngs
Intenlal ('OIlsumptioll 97 140 44.30 8.90
(In million k~1
Central ('x('lse revenue 3.2 10.8 237.50 47.50
from tea (In crore Rs]
Source: various ISsues oj Tea Statistics. Tea Board Ind.ia Calcutta

27
 The major factors affected the growth of tea Industry during
the period were (1 J prevalence of long lasting Suez Canal
crisis in 1956 12) submission of Report on Plantation Inquiry
Commission [PIC) to the Govt.. of India 13) Issuance of Tea
Distribution and Export Control order ITDECR). 1957 141 Tea
Waste Control Order IlWCR). 1959 and (5) Formation of Tea
Association of India in 1956. The long pending Suez Canal
crisis hd~ nn adverse effect on tea industry causing hardship
1n transpeJrting tea to U K i.e. the highest buyer of Indian tea
and this resulted in conSiderable suffering to the interest of
the tea manufacturers.

The submission of the Plantation Inquiry Commission report

had a positive impact on the tea Industry. The Commission
made valuable recommendations like la) reduction in the cost
of production (b) breaking up of concentration of tea trade [c)
grant of financial assistance to tea industry [dl emphasizing
the need for extension. replacement and replanting in a
phased manner lei improvement in transportation Ifl promotion
of tea exports.

The issuance of TDECR had a positive Impact on tea industry.

It sought to re~ulate the activities of exporters and
distributors of tea through a system of licencIng. It also
imposed some restrictions on the qualiiy of tea to be
observed. by exporters and distributors. The purpose of
introduction of'IWCR was to control anel regulate Buying.
Selling. Stocking ctc. of tea waste so that it may not reach
the hands of aduIterators to be used by them for adulterating
tea for human consumption.

The Tea Association of India which was set up in : 956 aimed

at protecting the interest of Indian tea growers in North East
India.

c. Third Five Year Plan /1961-62 to 1965-661 - Average

annual rate of growth of area stood at 1.2 per cent while It
was 0.8 per cent for productioll and 0.4 per cent for yield.
Exports of lea rledlned by 0.8 p(~r cent. and f(_Jfl~ign exchange
earnings by 1. I pCl CCIII. IIo\V(·wr. internal lea consumptloll
increased by 6.3 {'r'r ('('nt and central exelse by 8.9 per cent.

28
Item./particulars Po.ition End of Pereentage Avg•
.. at the plan in IDcrealle annual
commen· March over growth
cement of 31.3.1988 1981 rate
plan on
1.4.1981
Area under cultivation (In Th.ha.1 331 345 4.20 ._
0.80
Produdlon (In million kgsl 355 376 5.90 1.20
Average yield [kg/ha.1 1070 1089 1.80 0.40
Export of tea (In million kg) 205 197 -3.90 -0.80
Value of export. of tea 124 157 26.60 5.30
(In crore R.,I
Unit value IRs. per kg! 6 8.7 45.00 9.00
Percentage of foreign exchange 18.5 13.5 -5.50 -1.10
canllngs from tea
Internal consumption 140 184 31.40 6.30
(In million kg!
Central excise revenue from 10.8 15.6 44.40 8.90
tea (In crprc Rsl
Sourre . Various Issues q( Tea Statistics, Tea Boar,t. Kolkata

The aggreSSion of China in October 1962 and subsequent

aggression of Pakistan in 1965 on India created problems for the
tea industry. The Chinese aggression delayed the export of tea
due to heavy war supplies to North East Regions to repel
Chinese aggression. The war created major problems one
relating to the transportat ion of tea from Assam valley and
Caehar to Calcutta and the other regarding supply of essential
raw materials to tea gardens of these regions. The second note-
worthy event which had a positive dTect on thc tca industry was
the establislunent of auction centres at Coonoor in 1963 for
South Indian tea and Amritsar in Punjab for North Indian tea in
1964. The persistent decline in tea prices has been a matter of
serious eoncern for the tea exporting countries. During 1964
and thereafter. Food and Agricultural Organisation WAO]
introduced certain informal regulatory schemes for tea exports.
d. Annual Plans /1966-67 to 1968-691 - Avera~e annual
growth rate was 2.3 per ('ent in area, 4.8 per cent in
production. 2.9 per cent in yield and 10 per cent in intemal
consumption. In June 1966. the Govt.. of India d~valued the
Indian Rupee for the second time since Independence and
imposed a hcavy duty of Rs. 2/- per kg on export of tca. As
the impact of devaluation on the tea industry was not
encouraging, the Govt.. had to reduce the rate of cxport duty
in November 1966.

29
e. Fourth Five Year Plan 1969-70 to 1973-74J - The average
annual rates of growth of area. production. yield. export.
internal consumption. central excise. were 0.5 per cent. 4.8
per cent. 4.2 per cent. 4.2 per cent. 5.6 per cent. 40.6 per
cent respectively.

ItelDs/paJticulars Position End of Percentage Avg.

as at the plan In increase annual
cOlDmen- March over growth
cement of 31.3.1974 1969 rate
plan on
1.4.1969
i
Area under cuJilvatlon ~i53 362 2.70 0.50
(In Th.ha.]
-
Produdloll [In mlllion kgsJ ~l94 489 24.00 4.80
.-
AV('r:1f,(e yl(~ld (kg/lla.] 1114 1353 21.80 4.20

Exporl of lea (in million kg) 174 211 21.80 4.20

Value (If export of lea 121 19:3 59.50 1 L90

(In (~rorc Rsl

Unit value (Rs. per kg) 7.1 9.2 ' 26.00 5.60
-- ---~-
Pcrccnla~c
(~arnings
of foreign
from tea
exchan~c ~.8 fi.7 I ·5.00 -0.50

-1-- ----
Intcrllill c:olllsumplion 203 2GO :t.G.OO 5.60
[In million kg)
1----
- ___ • __ R ___

----
Central (~xclse revenue from 13.2 40 20: tOO 40.GO
t.ea (In crorc RsJ

&lure·1.! : Vurious issu{!s q{ Tea SUlli.~HC's. Tl'(1 Uuunl. KolkalCl

In 1973 the Govt.. of India passed the Foreigll Exchange

Regulation Act (FERA) which provided for diluting IlIl' f(ln::!~11
equity capital and quickening the process of Indianisat ion of
tea industry.

f. Fifth Five Year Plan (1974-75 to 1978-791 - Except fur

revenue from cClltral excise and export. (decline of 0.5 pel"
cent" and 1.8 pl~r .ccnlJ, there Wtl!o. appreciable increase by 0.6
per cent for are,l 2.2 per ccnt fc)r produclion. 1.5 per ccnt for
yield. 5.7 per ceni. for iJlIi~rnal consumption and 9.4 per cent
for central excise revenue.

30
Items/particulars Position End of Percentage Avg.
as at the plan In Increase annual
commen- March over growth
cement of 31.3.1979 1974 rate
plan on
1.4.1974
Area under cultivation 362 374 3.30 0.60
[In TIl.ha.)
Production [in million kgs) 489 544 11.00 2.20
Average yield [kg/ha.] 1353 1455 2.00 1.50
f<;xport of tea (in million kg) 211 200 5.00 -1.80
Value of export of tea 193 362 87.00 17.40
(in. c:rore I~)
Unit value IRs.per kg) 9.16 18.12 97.00 19.40
Percentage of foreign exchange 6.7 5.9 -0.86 -0.20
carnings from tea
Central excise revenue 40 58.9 47.80 9.40
from tea [in crore Rs)
Source : Vwious issues oj Tt.'Cl Statistics. Tea Board. Kolkata

TIle overall development of the tea industry was the combined

effect of various strategies adopted by Govt .. of India during
the Plan period. These are as follows:
1. Setting up of Indian Tea Industry Development Association
in 1974 with a seed capital of Rs. 25/- lac acquired by
way of voluntary subSCription
2. Opening of new tea auction centre at Siliguri in 1976
helped the producers in the locality in reducing the 'cost of
marketing and also saving time and avoiding risks.
3. The Committee on Tea Marketing under the chairmanship
of Mr. Prakash Tandon the then Director General of
National Council of Applied Economic Research. Govt.. of
India in its report had made numerous valuable
suggestions for marketing of tea in India and abroad. TIle
Committee for the first time cautioned that India should
not go for export only but also make efforts for import of
tea to keep India's position in the world market.
4. A meeting was held on 18 February 1980 with the offiCials
of Tea Board. State Trading Corporation. Tea Tradin~
Corporation of India. Mr Pranab Mukherjee. the then

31
s... ·.", ...~. ,'._

Commerce Minister, .Govt. of India stressed the need for

increasing country's export of traditional and non
traditional goods. Mr Pranab Mukherjee requested the Tea
Board to take steps to increase production of tea so that
there was a considerable surplus after meeting internal
consumption needs.
5. Decision was taken for revival of the Darjeellng tea
industry as it was potentially Viable to produce 22 m kg of
tea annually.
6. Amendment of Import policy of tea bagging machine.
However Govt. of India amended the import policy
governing import of tea bagging machine from February
1980. Import of tea bagging machine is allowed under
'Open General Licence'.
9. Sixth Five Year Plan [1980-81 to 1984-85/ - There was
overall increase in area (1.8 per cent), production 12.8 per
cent), produclivlty (0.9 per cent). exports (1.7 per cent). foreign
exchangc carnings [2.4 per cent) and intcrnal consumption
(5.6 per centl except for decline in central excise revenue from
tea by -0.8 per cent.
items/particulars Position End of Percentage Avg.
as at the plan in increase annual
commen- March over growth
cement of 31.S.1985 1980 rate
plan on
1.4.1980
Area under cultivation 374 408 9.1 1.8
lin Th.hu.)
Producllon [In million kgs) 544 620 14 2.8
Average yield (kg/ha.) 1,455 1.52:3 407 0.9
Export of tca (In million kg) 200 217 8.5 1.7
Value of export of tea 36.2 771 113 22.6
(In. ['rore Rs)
Unit vahw II~s.pcr kg) lB. 1 35.5 96.1 19.2
Average pen:cnlage of foreign 5.9 6.6 11.9 2.4
exchange earnings from tea
Inlt:rnul consumpllon
Un million kgs) . ~J:j7 431 27.9 5.6

Central excise revenue 58.9 56.7 -3.9 -0.8

from I(~a Un crore Rs)
Source : Various issues q( 'fca Statistics, Teo Board. Kolkuta

32
During the Sixth Plan period. there was overall growth of the Tea
Industry. which was the cumulative effect on various policies or
strategies implemented by the Govt.. some of which are as follows:
1. A National Level meet was held on 3rd August 1981 under the
chairmanship of Mr P K Kaul. the then Secretary. Ministry of
Commerce. Govt. of India. and was also attended by the
representatives of Govt. of Assam. Wedt Bengal, Tripura. Kerala.
TamilNadu. Karnataka. Himachal Pradesh and the Association of
Tea Producers including small tea growers. Discussions were held
on the present and future prospects of the Tea Industry and
recommendations made for substantial reduction in excise duty
rates on both bulk and packet tea. reduction in agricultural
1m/orne tax rates. exemption from rural employment cess.
suspension of sales tax on auctions. full credit requirements at
concessional rates of interest to the Govt. of India. State Govt ..
and tea producers.

2. The RBI had constituted a Committee under the chairmanship of

Mr K B Chore. Chief Officer. RBI in October 1980 to examine the
problems relating to the finanCing of tea industry. The Committee
had given a recommended that the tea industry would provide
from its own funds and long term resources. fund equal to
atleast 25% amount of peak deficit. Besides. the cash credit limit
is to be fixed on the detailed monthly cash budget for the entire
season. The Committee had also recommended for prompt
liquidation of accumulated deficit from the past. within 2 to 3
years. Further. the Chore Committee recommendations had dealt
a serious blow to the working of tea industry. In a meeting with
Dr Manmohan Singh. the then Governor of RBI. the tea industry
representatives had pOinted out the adverse effect of Chore
Committee recommendations. The Governor assured that nothing
would be done to harm the industry.
3. Three main tea producing countries i.e. India. SrUanka and
Kenya hold informal consultations at Geneva in an effort to sort
out their differences on international tea agreement. Mr V P
Singh. the then Union Commerce Minister. Gol. direckd the Tea
Board to gear up its export promotion efforts so that it can
contribute a lion's share to the eountry's foreign exchange
earnings. He also advised the Tea Board to derive maximum
possible benefit from participation in any generic promotion by
the existing Tca Council by suitable modifications in the pattern
of contribution and unilateral promotion of Indian Tea through
the role of Tea Board. .
33
4. R&D areas for Tea were identified by the producers and
exporters of tea all over the world including India. The main
thrust areas for carrying out R&D work to boost output and
sustain production increase. are :
,/ creation of central infomation services for tea industries for
the world
,/ analysis of bio-chemistry of tea during and after its
manufacture
,/ Evolving packaging technology.
5. The Tea Marketing Control Act. 1984 stipulated that producers were
to sell a minimum of 70 per cent of tea through public auction.
The Crash Programme for 1987 formulated by the Consultative
Committee of the Plantation Association envisaged the utllisaUon of
internal resources for augmenting tea prodl1C'Uon in the short. term.
6. In the 25th Annual General Meeting of Indian Tea Association
held on November 1982. It was urged upon by the Govt. to
include tea under priority sector to enable it to obtain financial
facilitles as extended to other agricultural commodities.
h. Seventh Five Year Plan {1985-86 to 1989-90] - Except for
decline in export of tea by -0.5 per cent and foreign exchange by-
10.0 per cent there was improvement in area by 0.5 per cent.
production by 3.1 per cent, yield by 2.5 per cent. internal
COnSl1ID-ption by 4.1. per cent and central excise by 7.8 per cent.
Ite~s/particulars Position End of Percentage Avg.
as at the plan in increase annual
commen- March over growth
cement of 31.3.1990 1985 rate
plan on
1.4.1985
Area und(!r cultivation (In Th.ha..j 408 417 2.20 0.50
ProducUon (In million kgs) 620 720 16.30 3.10
Average ylcld [kg/ha.) 1523 1729 13.50 2.50
Export of tca (In million kg) 217 209 -3.60 -0.50
Value of export of tea (In crorc HsJ 771 1104 43.20 3.50
Unit value IHs. per kg) 35.5 52.B 48.70 4.20
Avera~e percenta~e of foreign 6.6 3.4 -50.00 -10.00
exchange earnings from ten
Intcrnnl consumption [In mlllll)n kgs) 431 500 16.00 4.10
Central excise revenue from lea 56.7 78.9 38.80 7.80
(In ('rore Hs)
Sourc(~ : Vartuu..<; issues oj TL'CI Slatlstlcs. Tea Board. Kolmla

34
The industcy made progress during the Plan period except quantum
of tea exports and percentage of foreign exchange earnings. The
progress was the cumulative effects of various strategies. policies.
programmes. etc .. adopted during the Plan period. These are as
follows:

1. identification of new areas to be brought under planting of

tea/coffee rubber and cardamom of about 1.7 lac hectare
besides the planting of 85000 hect. and rejuvenation and
infilling of 1.3 lac hect. by UPASI.

ii. initiation of join efforts of West Bengal and Assam to bring

more areas under Tea .

iii.
•
appOintment of Venkatachalam Committee of Tea Auction.
suggesting modification of stipulation of selling 70% of total
production through auction.

iv. announcement of new marketing policy by Union Govt..

regarding adequate supply of tea at reasonable prices for
domestic market and maximization of export earnings from
tea.

v. launching of modernization plan for West Bengal Tea

Development Corporation.

vi. implementation of major development programme for Assam

Tea Corporation

vii. convening of Tea ScIentists Meet from all over the World at
Coonoor under the aegis of UPASI to study the impact of
plant density & manuring of soil groups in tea gardens.

vtU. familiarization of tea planting method which includes chopping

of the old bushes at the ground level and applying chemicals
to kill them.

Ix. holding of Tea Finance Meet.

x. launching of export campaign for DaIjeeling tea.

xi. formulation of a comprehensive credit plan to revitalise the

ailing tea industcy in Kangra valley by State Bank of India.
Kangra.

35
 xii. setting up of new projects worth Rs. 7.55 crore covering an
area of 8000 hectares in Western Ghats in joint sector by
Govt. of Karnataka.

xlli. establishment of a permanent centre for development of

plantation in Kerala.

xiv. constitution of a Ramakrishnayya Committee to review the

working of Tea Board.

xv. organising National Conference on Tea Productivity.

xvi. reconstitution of Tea Board.

xvii. launching of DaIjeeUng logo.

xvii1. opening of mini auction centres by Tata.

xix. setting up of a committee on a long term strategy and plan

for development of tea industry. The viability of cheaper
packing material and bringing Orissa. Meghalaya. Arunachal
Pradesh etc. in the tea map.

During the Plan period. the tea industry had undertaken various
development actlviUes which enabled step up of production. The
strategy of raising tea production includes. short. medium and long
term measures. Short term measures included cultural and
cultivation practtces. medium measures Incorporated new planting.
rejuvenation. pruning. replanting. infilling ctc .. while long term
measures includes attainment of 1100 m kg of tea in 2000 and
extension of planted area by another 53600 hectares. carrying out
infilling of about 38.500 hectare and 44600 hectares.

f. Eighth Five Year Plan /199J-92 to 1995-96} - Average

annual rate of growth of production was 1.1 per cent due to
increase in area by 0.6 per cent and yield by 0.5 per cent.
Export was marginally increased by 0.5 per cent and internal
consumption by 2.3 per cent and central revenue by 1.0 per
cent.

..

36
 IteDlS/paJ1icular. Position End of Percentage Av,.
as at the plan in increase annual
commen- March over growth
cement 31.3.1996 1991 rate
of plan on
1.4.1991
Area under cultivation [in Th.ha.) 420 433 3.00 0.60
Production [1n million kgs) 754 795 5.50 1.10
Average yield [kg/ha.) 1794 1839 2.50 0.50
f----_
Export of tea (in mUlton kg) 201 205 2.40 0.50
Value of export of tea 1120 1165 0.40 1.80
(in. crore Rs)
Unit value IRs.per kg] 55.15 58.7 6.50 1.30
Average percentage of foreign 3.8 3.6 -5.30 -1.00
exclmn~e earnings from tea
Internal consumption 520 560 11.50 2.30
[in million kgs)
Central excise revenue from tea 75.5 79.4 5.20 1.00
[in crore Rs)
Source : Vanous Issues of Tea Statlst:cs. Tea Board. Kolkata

j. Ninth Five Year Plan [1997-98 to 2001-2002/ - Although are

increased over the years by 178 percent. but production
improved marginal (Jess than 0.4 per cent) mainly on account
of fall in productivity. Export was more or less equal over the
years but value of export::> went up because of improvement in
unit value (Rs 85.79 to Rs 87.13 per kg). Internal consumption
was hiked @ 3.24 per cent annually. Details are given below:
Items/particulars Position End of Percentage Av,.
as at the plan in increase annual
commen- March over IJ'owth
cement 31.3.2002 1987 rate
of plan on
1.4.1997
Area under cultivation [1n Th.ha.) 434 512 17.97 3.59
Production [1n million kgsl 810 826 1.97 0.40
Average yield [kg/ha.1 1865 1620 -13.14 -2.62
Export of tea (in million kg) 203 201 -0.98 -0.19
Value of export of tea 1721 1753 1.86 0.37
(in. crorc Rsl
Unit value IRs. per kg) 86 87 1.56 0.31
Average percentage of foreign 4 3 -2.85 -0.57
exchange earnings from tea
Internal consumption 597 693 16.20 3.24
[In million kgsl
Central excise revenue from tea - N.A - -
[in crore Rsl
Source : vartous Issues of Tea Statistics. Tea Boan! Kolkata
37
 k. Tenth Five Year Plans (2002-03 to 2006-20071 - Annual
production in ~003 was estimated at 846 million Kg compared
to 826 milli("l kg. in the previous year. Export had declined
to184 millioll Kgs.

I. Area, Production, Yield, Export, Value of Export, Quantity

Sold, etc., during the period from 1950 to 2002 - It is
observed from the data Table-II that production had
Increased over the years expect 1999 and 2002. This was
mainly on account of improvement in yield rate. Of course,
there was marginal increase in area. Yield was improved by
197 per cent over the year whereas area by 61 per cent. The
average annual rate of growth of yield was 4.10 per cent while
it was 1.28 per cent in case of area.

Table 11 : Area, Production, Yield, Exports and

Prices of Tea during the past 5 decades
Export Auc:tloD
Year Area Produc- Yield UDlt Labour
tlOD Qty. Value price Qty. Sale No.
price

1950 31G 271'l.21 til'll 200.70 80.42 4.10 113.64 4.23 0.94859
._--
1960 331 :iI2.07 \171 193.00 119.99 6.21 173.79 5.28 0.84516
- -- .•._
1970 354 418.~~J_.11 H~ __ -_._-
202.00 148.75 7.36 241.31 6.47 0.75964

1980 381 5B!).17 1494 224.00 429.03 19.15 306.95 13.60 0.84665
.'_ f------ --"- f--..
1990 416 720.33 17:11 209.10 1104.15 52.HI 482.25 43.23 0.98678
'--- - - -----
.. --
1991 420 754.19 17~14 201.70 1120.31 55.51\ 501.58 40.31 0.99673
_ -- ... f-.----.-
1995 427 756.01 1770 167.10 IIDO.87 71.24 42H.:m 47.U9 1.02878
--f----. ---
1997 434 810.03 I1-1G5 202.!10 1721.1-14 1-15.7f) 4fj!J.02 66.89 1.03226
r---
1998 474 870.40 IH44 210.:10 22:3H,31 107.HO 442.35 76.43 1.03500
------
lBI.70 1902.44 100.131
1999 490 826.00 11385
f---
.. _f - - - - - - 4HO.71 72.80 1.03600

2000 504 847.00 11m) 206.90 11-198.62 91.HO 507.53 1-14.50 1.03700
_.
2001 510 854.00 1675 I 1-12. flO UlH2.11 92.13 463.69 86.70 1.03900

2002 511 826.00 I ;;').() 201.00 175:U9 H7.13 456.54 88.15 1.03956

Area in Ih.kg .• l'rodudlorl In Ill.KI-( .. Yield kg per hr.. Sale Qly In Ill.kg•. Sale price Rs per kg ..
labour In million lIumber
•
Source: Tea Statistics. Tea BcJl -ri. Knlkuln

38
 Part Two : Nomenclature and Classiftcation, Flora
Biology and Embryology, Pollination,
Artificial Pollination, Genetics, Deve-
lopment in Plant Improvement,
Climatic Condition.s for Tea Growing
Districts in India .
5. Nomenclature, Classification and Botany of Tea
f. . Nomenclature and Classiftcation
Tea (camellia sincsis (L). O. Kuntze) is a highly heterozygous and
outbre~ding crop, exhibiting great diversity with form and shape.
The scientific description as wcll as nomenclature dates baek to the
early part of the eighteenth ccntury. Tea plant is broadly classified
as Assam, China and Cambodia types. The SCientific nomenclature 1s
as follows:
A. The China Plant Camellia Sinesis (L),
B. The Assam Plant Camellia Assamica (Maston)
C. The Cambodia plant: Camellia Assamica suI sp. lasiocalyx
(Planch. M.S.)
if. Flora Biology and Embryology
The morphological vegetative organs of tea plant are affected by the
parent plants and environmcntal C'Onditions but flora characteristics
are relatively stable and provide reliable basis for specific
identification. There is significant diffen'nce in flora characteristics
between Chinese and Assam tea varieties. For example, in length of
style and style ann; the number and length of outer stamens; size of
inter petals etc .
.
a. Pollination Tea plants showed an appreciable degree of self
sterility and invariably set a better crop of seeds with pollen
from another bush nearly four times that of self-fed seeds.
With efficient cross transfer of pollen, more than 3 percent of
total seeds formed will be self fertilized
b. Artificial Pollination / Hand Cross Pollination Healthy
flowering branches are chosen for artificial pollination. To avoid
contamination. open flowers and immature fruits are removed.
iii. Genetics
a. Cytology Chromosome number ts the bastc criterion for
differentiation between species. Cytological investigation on tea

, 39

i
 studies the somatic chromosome (If different species and
varieties which shows a constant number (2n = 30).
b. Inbreeding Continuous inbreeding of a cross pollinated crop
species increases homozygosity. Homozygous diplOids are of
immense importance in plant improvement particularly in
crops like tea where genetic study is scanty.
c. Compatibility A study conducted by TRA. Tocklal revealed
that the degree of self-mcompatabillty was generally prominent
in China and Assam varieties than in Combodia. The inbred
progenies in all the varieties also showed segregation of
characters w1th loss of vigour which was maximum for China
plants.
d. Inheritance Because of non-availability of homogenous lines.
most of the characteristics of tea are polygenic in nature. The
pattern of inheritance is quantitative. Observations on the
inheri-tance of yield in biclonal crosses showed that positive
correlation existed between mean yield of parents and
progenies In crosses Involving widely different clones. But the
relationship broke down when morphologically similar clones
are used.
6. Development in Plant Improvement
i. Mass Selection Seeds were the only source of propagating tea
during the early years of tea cultivation. The first scientific attempt
to select inputs in North East India was made in 1860 by establish-
ing standard sources of tea seeds. The seeds from the particular
seed garden were known by the name of that garden or locality and
was called JAT.
it Selection Criteria for Yield Initial selection was done based on
visual characteristics of a plant like leaf and branching patt(~m. The
size of leaf is directly proportional to its weight.. The yield of a tea
bush is the product of the number of shoots multiplied by weight of
individual shoots. Further. area of plucking surface. density of
plucking pOints and weight of prunings are responsible for yield.
iii. Selection Criteria for Quality The following morphologIcal
characters related to quality are used for selections :
a. Pubescence - It Js the amount of hair on the under surface of
a young leaf. It has been found to have a Significant relation
with qualtty of black orthodox tea in various parIs of Iht>
world. However. no correlation could be observed between
pubescence and CTC.

40
 b. Colour of Leaf - A better tea quality was produced by light
green leaved type. For liquor. colour and strength. over quality
and flavour. light leaved sections were better than dark leave
ones. •

c. Anatomic:d Character - Three factors which have an

influence on quality and strength are pubescence. phloem
index and vascular index. In general, only high values of
vascular index are associated with the deSirable combinations
of big bushes with high yield per unit of bush surface and
better response to fertilizers.

Iv. Clqnal Vs. Seed Propagation The seed grown plants are not
uniform as their characteristics were governed by genotypes of their
parents and soil conditions. In some cases. yield and quality were
unpredictable. But. as the planters want a uniform plantation both
for morphological features and quality. tea plants were propagated
vegetatively. These were propagated by means of layering. budding C'r
grafting on root stocks to obtain seed gardens on selected bushes.
The standardization of the technique of single leaf internode cuttings.
practiced today. took a long time to be successful.

v. Selection Procedures/Criteria In view of the commercialization of

tea. planting materials have been developed and selected from the
desired plant material. In recent years the extent of improvement
has been slowed down due to lack of reliable selection criteria.
Various morphophysiological markets have already marginally
improved for desired agronomic trades as they are greatly influenced
by environmental factors. Selection may be improved to a large
extent using cytological, biochemical and/or molecular markets
linked to various desirable agronomic characters. The factors which
contribute to the quality are improved controllable practices like
field. cultural and factory operations. the genetic input. non-
controllable environmental factors and their interactions with genetic
factors.

7. Agroclimatlc Conditions of Tea Growinl Repon8

In India tea is concentrated in two widely separated regions in the
North East and South India. In addition. tea is grown in a limited
area in Kangra (Himachal Pradesh) Tripura and Dehradun Valleys
(Uttlaranchal). In recent years tea has also been introduced in some
non traditional areas like Arunachal Pradesh. Meghalaya. Nagaland.
Mizoram. Manlpur. SikkJm. Orissa and Undivided Bihar.

41
North East
Tea growing areas in this region lie between 24 degree and 27
degree latitude and 88 degree and 95 degree lengitude. Tea growing
areas can be divided among several distinct regions viz.
Brahmaputra and Barak Valley in Assam, North Bengal Plains of
Dooars and Terai as well as Darjeeling Hills. In the Brahmaputra
valley. tea is grown on both the banks of the river on flat land
between 50 and 120 m (160 - 400 ft) above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
In South India, tea area lies between BOC and 13°C on the slopes of
Western Ghat mountains and adjoining plateaus at elevations
rangIng from 800 to 2000 MSL. Some tea areas are, however,
situated above or below this. Climatic conditions of different tea
districts are gIven below :

Table 12 : Climatic Conditions of Tea Growing Districts of IndJa

Tea districts Location of Average *Wet Range of mean
Meteoro- Rainfall Months monthly temp.
logical (mm) (Nos.)
Stations Max (ae) (DC)
NORTH EAST INDIA
Indudlng
NORTH OF
WEST BENGAL
Assam Valley Jorhat 2642.10 B 32.60 B.30
Cachar Silcoorte 2994.60 B 32.20 10.60
Dooaras Nagarkata 3956.70 7 31.00 10.40
Teral Gunagaram 317B.00 7 32.20 8.90
--
DaIjceUng Nagrl Farm 2371.70 7 24.90 7.70
Kangra (Himachal) Palampur 2667.40 B 29.40 4.90
SOUTH INDIA
Annamalal Cinchona 3686.30 8 29.30 11.50
-- r-
C. Travancore Vandlpcrtyar 1145.00 5 ~H.60 13.40
High Ranges Munnar 384:i.00 7 25.00 5.90
Kamataka DurgabcUa 2914.00 6 3:3.90 11.10
Nilglrls Coonoor 1452.00 6 25.40 9.50
Nilglrl Wyanaad GudaIur 17B2.00 6 40.00 7.00
~.
Wyanaad Meppadl 22.30.7 5 32.90 14B.00
Source : Global acilXlrlcf!s oJ Tea Sciellcc' • 96.
• wet nwnths : rainfall> 90mm per month.

42
Part Three : Planting and Processing Technology,
Manuring, Research & Development,
Thrust Area of Tea
8. Field and Processing Technology - The Changing Trends Over
The Years

i. Field Technology From the beginning. improvements in field

cultivation practices and processing technology have been a
direct result of research activitics of the Tocklai Experimental
Station. Jorhat. Assam and United Planters' Association of
South India (UPASI). Tea Research Institute. Tamil Nadu.
'Subsequently. the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology
in Palampur, Kangra, Himachal Krishi Vishwa Vidyalay.
Assam Agriculture University, Jorhat, Tea Board's DaJjce1ing
Research Centre at Kurseong and Tea Husbandry Department
at North Bengal University played important roles in this
regard. Further. Research Centres were also started by Tata.
Goodricke Tea Company etc.

Various important agro-techniques developed in plucking.

pruning, shade, soil management with emphasis on drainage
and conservation have indeed made a tremendous impact on
increase in tea crop production and yield.

it Manuring To begin with, nitrogen alone was used as fertilizer

in tca in the form of ammonium sulphate which turns soil
highly acidic in due course. Urea was later introduced. The
importancc of potassium as a key clement was recognized
when widespread potassium deficiency causcd defoliation on a
large scale. Liberal application of NPK ferUJJzcr has jncreased
the uptake of other essential micro-nutrients from the soil.
The concept of balanced nutrients to counteract deficiency of
micro nutrients was introduced in tea cultivation. Foliar
application of micro nutrients such as zinc, manganese is
presently done on a regular basis under specific conditions.
The prolonged application of urea is likely to exacerbate
'sulphur deficiency' in tea plants. Sulphur is likely to become
a major nutrient in fertilizer schedule. The application of SOA
for long term has turned the soil over acidic and this is being
rectified by the application of lime or dolomitic lime.
9. Research and Development
Research on tea has contributed very significantly towards the
scientific development of the tea industry. Major R&D breakthroughs
provided by Tocklai Experimental Station during different periods are
summarized below:

i. 1950's: Shade. N-fertilizers. McTear's Rotorvane:

ii. 1960's: Longer pruning cycles. chemical weed control. use of
organophosphates. Continuous Tray Drier. Barbora's
Fifties. Continuous Leaf Conditioner. catchment
planning:
iii. 1970's: DraInage, K-manuring. herbicides. infilling and·
consolidation, plant population, Barua Continuous
Roller. high-yielding clones and hybrid biclonal seeds:
iv. 1980's: Balanced NPK manuring. synthetic pyrethroids, high-
yielding clones and new hybrid seeds. optimum plant
population, young tea management package. Tea
Breaker cum Separator, Green Leaf Storage System.
v. Tocklai Experiment Station on R&D

In recent times, Tocklai Experimental Station itm been concentrating

on the following research areas :-

a. Breeding & selection : Development of superior clones and

seed stocks:
b. TIssue culture : Mlcropropagatton and gem'. ic engineer-
ing:
c. Pruning : Rejuvenation and consolid,ltion. bush
architecture:
d. Plucking : Mechanical aids:
e. Tea physiology : Photosynthesis. respiratory loss. growth
promoters and biogenetic pathways:
f. Microbiology : Identification of microbes and role of
-nut.rient metabolism. bio-fertilisers:
g. Nutrition : Need-based study of macro and mfcro-
nutrients:

44
 h. Pests and diseases : Bio-control and integrated pest
management systems:
i. Tea chemistry : Quality parameters. increased cuppage
and pharmacokinetics; and

J. Tea mamifacture : Microprocessor based clcctroni,

monitoring and process control SY'itCIil.

k. Health aspects of tea: Helps in arresting cardio att:l('k. ~kill

diseases etc.

Development of South Indian Tea has been possible due to R&D

breakth.roughs and adoption of new technologies at UPASI Tca
Research Institute. Nutrition of potassium and zinc. control of blistcr
blight by specific fungicide. control of short-hole-borer. rejuvenation
pruning and no tillage replantation etc. are some of the time tested
practices developed by the Institute. Amongst the more important
recommendations of recent origin are routine hormone formulations
and nursery grafting of fresh cuttings. biclonal seed stock. partial
mechanization of harvesting. leaf expan~ion concept in programming.
plucking intervals. organic systematic fungicides etc. The use of ultra
violet rays to improve processing quality is a major break through.

10. Thrust Area in Tea Research

The tca industry in India needs an integrated research strategy. The

thrust of future research should be on specific technical needs
which includc. (i) Plant improvement. (ii) Plant nutrients. (iii) Watcr
managcment. (tv) Applied physiology. (v) Improvement of Tea quality
and flavour. (vi) Biolobrtcal control of pest diseases. (vii) Modemi7..aUon
ann automation of tea factOries and (viii) Alternative uses of tea.

45
 Part Four: Marketing systems, Aspects of Tea
Markets, Domestic Market, Export
Markets, Promotion
11. Tea Marketing - Signs of Maturity
Signs of maturity were obseIVed in the tea- marketing scene. which
was. perhaps. partly due to the effects of disintegration of the former
USSR and partly to the economic liberalization move stoutly pursued
by the then Finance Minister. Dr. Manmohan Sing. Early glorious
period of Indian tea marketing was restricted to production of teas
on Indian soil to suit the needs of British Blenders. Indian tea-
sahibs were happy to satisfy the visiting agents. pack the produce in
plywood' chests and put them on to the holds of vessels sailing for
London Port. The estates were largely owned by the Britishers (at
least the rich ones) and the accountants in London determined
prices. It was happy time. But. frankly. no marketing was involved.
It merely served as commodity suppliers for big business. This
situation continued for a long time through independence. !<'irst
shock came from Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERAl. which
was renamed as Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). A great
deal of hesitation regarding permissible share of foreign holdings.
lack of decisions usually with Govt. of India. led to shifting of
ownership of gardens. British planters were losing interest and
started developing an alternative source of supply for which Kenya
was found to be suitable location. That is. however. another story.
12. Loss of London Market
With the loss of London market. former USSR and East European
countries appeared on the scene. strengthened by a long- term
friendship treaty involving rupee trade agreement. Tea became an
important item in this pact. Within a short time. the share of former
USSR and East European countries surpassed 50 per cent of Indian
export quantum. So the need for exporting more than what India
could conveniently do was not strong. However. an ambitious
projection of 370 m. kg export by the tum of century. kept the tea
industry busy all the whIle. The slogan of need for exporting more
value added products like packet tea: tea bag and instant tea was
heard from all comers. It was all for Increasing the foreign exchange
earnings. Some meek attempts were made to popularize Indian tea
in foreign markets by way of subsiding advertising expenditure on
India exporters for their packs with the mention of Indian tea on it.
Foreign packers would also receive subsidy if they used a certain

47
percentage of Indian tea in their blends and advertised that point.
Funds for such activity were small and mechanism of payment was
complicated. As a result. real big tea marketers hardly cared for
such schemes. But year after year some money. which appeared
large in Indian context. but chicken feed in the context of global
operations. used to be dissipated. After the loss of USSR market
when exports fell sharply. there was hardly any scope for toying with
such experiments. Collaboration with global operators. attempts to
establish brand image. realizing need for consumer research.
production of Bio-tea and specialties etc. gave Indian tea industry a
smart appearance Convertibility of rupee as a part of liberalization
plan provided necessary support for taking right steps. Devalued
rupees had positively encouraged larger interest from general
currency areas. Indian tea was found more competitive in the world
markets. Breakdown of the buying system in CIS countries created
such an impact in the international trade that the normal rules of
demand and supply did not work. Export projection called for
substantial efforts in the field of marketing.

This part deals with marketing system of tea, modes of disposal of

tea. seven marketing modes. primary marketing. development of
auction centers. tea auction facilities. tea auction systems. advantage
of auction sale. Tandon Committee on Tea Marketing. ex-garden
sales. mini-auction, auction for blended and packet teas. Besides,
efforts have been made to devote critical analysis on new auction
rules-Ah uJa commi ttce 1981. marketing of Indian tea -domes tic
vIs exports. unrestricted import of tea to allow or not etc. Tea is the
most popular of all the beverages in the world. As the largest
organized sector. tea is one of the oldest industries in India and
holds a considerable potential for the economic development of the
country. India has the largest area under tea and is also the largest
producer. consumer and exporter of tea in the world. In 2000 India's
prodUction was estimated at 950 llJ kg accounting for 29 percent of
world production. Tea export from India was about 210m kg. which
represents 18 percent of world exports. In addition to contributing
substantially to national and state ex-chequers directly and
indirectly, it is the largest single export commodity earning foreign
exchange.

13. Marketing System of Tea

Tea being a perishable product should be disposed of as quickly as

possible. The economic viabtlLy of t{~a industry depends cmcially on
profitable disposal of its products. The marketing system of India tea

48
deals with marketing channels and Govt. regulations on tea disposal.
It refers to the complex system of institutions and operations. which
intervene between the producer of tea on one hand and ultimate
consumer who drinks his cup of tea, on the other hand. Among the
alternative means of disposal. the producer chooses the channel.
which brings the best price to him within the purview of Govt.
regulations. The marketing channel in tea is the pathway of
movement of teas through intermediaries from production in the
garden to the hands of the ultimate consumers within or outside the
country. Das committee in its study early in 1974 found that
marketing of Indian tea was done by a two stage process in which
the first stage was the passage of Indian tea as a primary product
via the various channels to (i) Indian blender packers (ti) Indian
loose tea wholesalers (iit) U.K. importers. (Iv) rupee country
importers. and (v) non-rupee-non-U.K. importers overseas. In the
domestic market. the second stage of tea marketing was two
compartment affairs. one of which was the marketing of packets in
India by Indian blender packers and the other was the loose tea
marketing system.

14. Modes of Disposal

Tea is marketed and made available to the consumers in two

different forms viz. loose and packaged. Loose tea is not subjected to
any further major processing after it is purchased at auction. It Is
sold to the consumer rather in the same condition or in blended
form. It is generally not packed in convenient sizes before it is sold.
In packet tea trade. on the other hand. tea undergoes further
processing and different types of tea are blended and sold to the
consumers in packets of conventional sizes. There are mainly three
modes of disposal of tea viz. auction. ex-factory or ex-garden and'
forward contract. Among these the public auction system plays the
most important role as Tea (marketing) Control Order (1984) specifies
that 75 percent of the total output of tea estates should be sold
through it. The interlinked modes of disposal of Indian tea are as
follows (a) Direct conSignment to London auction. (b) Direct sale by
forward contract to overseas buyers. (c) Consignment to Indian
auctions. (d) Direct ex-factory sale to Indian buyers. (e) Direct sale
by forward contract to Indian buyers. (e) Direct Marketing (loose tea)
in wholesale markets and. (g) Self-packeting and exports of packets
overseas. Over and above. there are some sales of Indian packaged
tea abroad and small scale attempts to sell packaged tea in home
market by Indian producers.

49
15. Marketlug Models of Tea
The seven marketing modes are discussed below:
i. Direct Consignment to London Auction:
London auction is the oldest and pioneer of institutional
marketing of tea in the world. Though over the years. the
quantity of Indian tea sent directly for auction to London is
corning down. still a good quantity of quality Indian tea is
shipped directly to London for sale.
ii. Direct Sale by Fonvard Contract to Overseas Buyers
This practice was very common in the first quarter of the
present century. Large buyers in the United Kingdom or the
East negotiated forward for the purchase of the whole output
of an estate, or for a part there of, over a period of one year
or more. The eventual disposal might take many forms. It
might be shipped direct to the buyers for general trade
distribution: it might be transported in varying qualltities to
different parts of the world. some of it might find Us way to
London auction: it might be retained at the port of shipment
to be blended and possible packeted there and reshipped to
various consuming countries.
iii. Consignment to Indian Auctions
Most of the tea produced in India is sold through the seven
auction centers situated in different part.s of the country. Here
tea is sold to t.he buyers through brokers. a middleman. who
sells tea on behalf of the #!rowers. The tea Is sold t.o highest
bidder under the usual Til les of sale governing such auction.
The seven auction cenlers of the country are Guwahati.
Kolkata. Silignri. Cochin. Coonoor. Coimbatore. and Amritsar.
iv. Direct Ex;/actory Sale to Indian Buyer
By this systcm tea is sold in the garden ilself. This applies to
sales from bought leaf factory. Tea produced in such factories
is more regularly sold ex-fadory to local collectors or dealers
through whom it passe& t.o merchants. from whom It lTlay be
sold in auction or by private treaty or be shipped. Some
estates located on the main road sell tca rather loose or in
packets to retail buyer .. at the factory door, although the
amount is less. This gives a quick return to the garden.

50
 v. Direct Sale by Fonuard Contract to Indian Buyers
Buyers and sellers make a contract even before tea is
produced to sell it at a fIxed price later. This producer has to
sell the teas to the buyers at the agreed price, irrespective of
the price of tea later.

vi. Direct Marketing (loose tea) in Wholesale Markets

Growers are selling tea directly in wholesale outlet in the
market.

vii. Self-packeting and Export of Packets Overseas

Tea is exported in packet forms from the garden to different
cduntries of the world in company's name.
16. Primary Marketing
A detail of primary marketing of tea during 1980 to 1999 is given
below:

Table 1 : Primary Marketing of Indian Tea During 1980-2004

Particulan 1980 1990 1995 2004

Qty II) Pe (2) Qty.(l) Pc (2) Qty.(I) Pc (2) Qty.(l) Pc (2)

Indian AUction 306.96 5~t89 482.25 66.95 428.36 56.66 503.41 52.79

London AucUon 31.73 5.57 8.13 1.13 3.31 0.44 3.42 0.36

Singapore Auction - - - - - - - -
Total AU(~tI(}n 338.69 59.46 490.38 68.08 431.66 57.10 506.83 53.13

Export under 22.29 3.92 25.61 ~t55 30.02 3.97 45.31 4.77
forward contrad
Ex-garden sale 208.56 36.62 204.35 28.37 294.33 38.93 397.86 42.10

Total Production 1569.54 100.00 702.34 100.00 756.01 100.00 950.00 100.00
Source : Various Issues oj Tea SlalLo;lics. Tea lJoarrl. India
Notf! -Quantit!l In million kgs. (1). Percentage to total salt.' (2).

The buyers at the other end ~.f each of these channels are not dis-
tinct groups. There is considerable overlap and inter mixture among
them. To describe this inter linkage the buyers are categorized into
several main types viz. (I) Indian packeters (Ii) Indian (loose tea)
Whole sellers, (iii) rupee country buyers (iv) U.K. importers/buyers
and (v) non-nlpce overseas importers. Out of India's total production
of 950.00 m kg in 2004, quantity sold through auction was 506.83
m kg (53.13 per cent), export under forward contract 45.31 m kg

51
(4.11 percent), and ex-garden sale 391.86 m kg representing 42.10
per cent.

17. Development of Auction Market in the World

The frrst organized sale of tea through auction took place at Mincing
Lane in London. The East India Company sold its tea in India
House. privately till 1838 but after it lost its monopoly of the Indian
trade, all tea was sold in the commercial sale- room at Mincing
Lane. For the first five years after 1834 tea sold at Mincing Lane
was exclusively from China. On 10 lh January 1839 the first
commercial consignment of Indian Tea was sold in the commercial
sale-room by the east India Company. which was an event of great
importance in the history of Indian tea. As Sir Percival Griffiths in
The History of the Indian Tea Industry said. ''The first importance of
tea from the British territmies in Assam. consisting of eight chests.
containing about 350 pounds. was put up by the East Indian
Company in public sale in the commercial sale rooms. Mincing Lane.
on the 10Ih January. 1839 and exdted much cllliosity". This was the
first auction of Indian Tea. The first Indian Tea Auction Center was
established in Kolkata on 27 th December 1861. KoJkata Tea Broker's
association at tlrst conducted the auction. Since 1947. auctions have
been held in Kolkata under the auspices at the Calcutta Tea Traders
Association ICTfA). There are 13 auction centers in the world at
present out of whieh seven are in India. Tahle - 2 shows the dates
of establishment of the t(,<1 auction cCllters of India

Table 2 : Tea Auction Centers of India

SI. No. Name of the auction center Date of establishment

-_. ---
I Amritsar -_
3D'" April. 1964
.._-_--_
. - .

2 Calcutta 271h December. 1861

..•---.----

3 Cochln 4'" .July. 1947

---. -
4 Colmbatof(~ 22"d November. 1980
--
5 COOnO()f 2~~ ...1 Man·h. 196~~
--_---.----.------
6 GuwahaU 25'" September. 1970
- ----_-
7 Sillgurl 26 1h October. 1976

18. Auction Centres of Abroad .

Auction market in Colombo stancd on 30 lh July 1883 for Sri Lanka
tea. Chittagong auction center was established on 16 July 1949 to

52
deal in teas of then East Paktstan. now Bangladesh. Nairobi auction
market began sale on 7 November 1956 for the sale of African teas.
Nairobi auction market has since moved to Mombassa on 14 July
1959. Before the War. Amsterdam was an important auction center
for Indonesian tea. Sale ceased in that auction cenler in April 1940
but was resumed in January 1949 and then again suspended in
July 1958. Auction sale was inaugurated in Antwerp in 1959 and
later suspended in 1966. In 1960 auction started in Hamburg and
suspended in 1965. These two auction centers handled Indonesian
tea. Limbo auction market started operation in February 1970 and
Djakarta auction on 11 December 1972. Thus while London auction
market is "cosmopolitan" in nature. other markets handle tea of the
local producers.
,
19. Tea Auction Facilities

The auction facilitates distribution of the largest quantities of the

product in the shortest possible time. increases competition among
buyers and sellers because of the concentration of the factors of
supply and demand under one roof. improves grading and packing.
offers advantages to the buyers in finding quickly the type and
quantity he wants and extension of credit to buyers by financial
institutions. The auction serves. the buyers by enabling them to
purchase tea of a much broader variety than they would otherwise
be able to. moving from garden to garden individually. The consumer
demands certain standardization in tea blends. This is an extremely
delicate operation as the quality of tea manufactured day to day of
different tea estates very greatly. To achieve this standardization the
auctions allow the blenders to match teas from all over India with
their blends. Buyers are afforded the widest chOice to fulfill their
particular requirements. be they for exports. wholesale. retail or
blending. while the sellers are provtded a platform for attracting the
widest range of market through numerous buyers. both internal and
export.. No other commodity of such a varied quality can be disposed
of in so short a time.

20. Tea Auction System

It has often been claimed that the tea auction system has withstood
the test of time. The auctions have been found acceptable by both
sellers and buyers and have the approval of the government as well.
The auctions provide the producers a ready and reliable means of
selling their produce. A new entrant. thanks to the auction system.
does not have to necessarily worry about marketing his production.

53
This is not the case with other products where marketing is an
essential input. The tea industry has attracted many investors
because it is in business straight away. without searching for
markets. The producers receive the sale proceeds timely. 14 days
after the sale. through a well established. system of ·prompts·. The
buyers have found the auctions benetlcial as they cannot only buy
at a central point but can watch the operation of their competitors.
They do not have to go from door to door for their requirements.
Even for private transactions auctions are the barometer. The
brokers have been ahle to evolve an effective system whereby
services are efficiently provided to both buyers and sellers. They have
been providing market intelligence. manufacturing and agricultural
advice to the producers and have regularly compiled useful data for
the tea industry. including statistical informat.ion. However. as the
countdown to the 21"' century begins. there appear to be some
cracks In the system. More and more producers are going in for
direct marketing. by passing the auction system. This trend is likely
to continue. as producers would like to exercise personal control
over their production. The major buyers have supported the auction
system in past. The former USSR bought the bulk of its quantity
through the auctions but the disintegration of the former Russia has
meant a change in Uwir buying policies and purchases for the
Russian Federation and CIS countries today are being done
substantially through private sales. Similarly other buyers. to secure
quantities. are buying tcas privately. In fact. the main supporters of
DaIjecling tca have shown a clear preference for private sales during
quality periods. The Tea Marketing Control Order of 1984 prescribes
that the producers must sell 75 per cent of their production through
seven recognized auction centers of India-Guwahati. Siliguri. Cochin.
Coonoor. Coimbatore and Amrilsar. This order. however. has no
teeth and. in any case. it is withdrawn as India moved towards a
free economy.

21. Advantage of Auction Sale

Tea auction center collects supplies of teas from a large number of
go-downs and canalizes them into many areas of the highest
demand spread all over the world. As a mechanism of sale. the
outstanding virtue of the auction Is integrity-the selling and buying
are done publicly. The auction is economic gaps of money to the
seller. As Goradia observes. the auction center is a meeting place.
where up to 1000 gardens meet so"w 1000 buyers to trade 3000 to
5000 lots of tea every week. in the course of only 20 hours. The
present system of selling tea in auctions through brokers. are selling

54
samples to buyers and printing information catalogue originated in
London. TIle same system. therefore. have been adoptcd in other tea
auction centers also. The auction mechanism has some definite
advantages: (1) the producers is assured of the fair price on the
prevailing market. (ii) assurance of continual flow of sale to the
producers without fear of a buildup in unsold stocks which may
happen in case of other selling modes in times of recession (iii) no
problem of bid collection as payment i~ automatically collected on
the 14th day (iv) the pushing nature of bidding in tea auction
improves price and helps in maintaining a similar price level for
comparable lots of tea (v) free sampling. which costs less than 2
percent. is a vehicle of salcs promotion ideal for a commodity of
such variety (vi) as the auction takes place publicity. the integrity of
sale in,implicit to a producer regardless of his situation from the
auction center or unfamiliarity with mechanics of trading.
22. Tandon Committee on Marketing
TIms the system of tea auctions. which Is more than a century old.
Inspite of views occasionally expressed to the contrary. all
committees and commissions set up in India and abroad have
recommended the continuation of the auction system as the most
efficient method of disposal of bulk commodity like tea. The last
committee to examine the auction system in India was the Tandon
committee. which submitted its report in November 1978. After very
careful examination of all aspects of the matter the committee
confirmed the need to allow auctions to progress freely. The
committee also recommended that efforts should be made to
introduce in different auction centers useful practices followed in
other auction centers and to achieve uniformity in rules in different
auction centers as far as possible.
23. Ex-garden Sale
The Tea Board constituted a committee to examine the role of mini
auction and recommended that experiments to be watched and
modus-oparandi and their impact on tea trade should be carefully
examined to decide the advantages and disadvantages. The
committee clearly envisaged the possibility of Mini Auction assuming
bigger role in coming years. What is more remarkable is the
committee did not decry ex-garden sale and took a certain portion of
teas produced being sold at ex-garden as a fait accompli and
indispensable from the point of view of products. particularly the
weaker section. The need for ex-garden sale arose from the common
wisdom of not putting all the eggs in the same basket. which

55
inevitably reduce price. Moreover. having some volume of ex-garden
sale is also important for maintaining a satisfactory cash flow
position since the sale through auctions it takes 3 t.o 6 months for
the sellers to receive the sale proceeds. In this back-ground the
stipulation under the Tea Marketin~ Control order 1984 that 70 per
cent of crop in 1984 and 75 per cent of crop in 1985 onwards
should be sold through pubHc auctions in India has been causing
serious financial problems for the products apart from reducing the
prices realized at auctions. Stipulation of minimum of crop for sale
through auctions in India was held good for two years Le. 1985 and
1986 but form 1987 on wards. the proportion started declining.
This was due to considerable delay in sale through auctions on the
one hand and reduction in prices as a result of too much tea being
available at. auctions. on the other. The existing auctions will also
find it extremely difficult to handle the largely increased volume of
tea smoothly and promptly unless their facilities are augmented. It
is. therefore, proved that other method of disposal of tea should be
allowed to playa growing rolc.

24. Mini Auction

Tata, which organized mini auction. filled the gap to some extent. It
should be encouraged. Simultaneously ex-garden sale. which in 1995
and 2004 accounted for 38.93 per cent and 42.04 per cent to total
production. should be allowed to ('onUnue and if necessary to increase
depending on circumstances so that producers may receive the best
possible prices for their produce and sale proceeds may also be
received as early as possible which is essential in view of their tight
cash-flow pOSition. The quantity sold through auction in 2004
constituted 53.13 per cent of total crop. Over the ycars, the sale
through public auction in percentage terms started fluctuating and it
could be able to handle 45 per (~ent of the crop in immediate future
and still lower proportion in the following years. As a result. a bigger
role will be played by mini-auctions. LOlldon auctions. ex-garden sales
as well as C and F Export. Any dogmatic insistence on increasing
sales through public auctions in India without ('onsidering the
capacity of the auction centers on the one hand and effects of such a
policy on tea prices and financial position of tea producers. on the
other hand. wi1l only create utter mnfuslon In Ih(' tea Industry and
trade and an inevitable slump in t(~a prices. Mini auctions in
particular have a big role to playas a method. which lies in between
public auction and ex-garden sale. T7~il Board had drawn up a set of
model niles to govern. these mini-auctioJl so a~ 10 remove the scope
for undcr invoking and evils associatrd with public auctions.

56
25. AUCtlOD for BleDded aDd Packet Teas
There is a need for other innovative approaches. Auctioning of
blended teas and packeted tcas would be one such approach. It
should cover not only teas blended and or packeted by tea
producers but also tcas blendcd and or packeted by buyers of loose
tea. In fact traders rather than producers may take the lead in
organizing auctions of blended and packcted teas, which may be
purchased by second stage traders for either domestic consumption
or export. On immediate beneficiary effect of this approach would be
elimination of the oligopalistic hold on the matter for packcr teas
enjoyed by few packcrs with consequent reduction in prices for the
ultimately consumcrs who have to pay exorbitant priees for the teas
purch'lscd by them because of high profit margin enjoyed by traders
at different levels of distribution channels and do not p;et any rellef
even when auction prices decline. Table 3 indicates the percentage of
offerings through auctions since 1990.
Table 3 : Production aDd Sales of Tea
(Quantity in million kgs)
Year Production Sold through auctions Per cent sold in auctions
1900
[-._ ._--- 89.60
-----_._ 24.60 27.45
1910 119.60 34.50 28.85
1920 i56.60 37.50 23.96
1930 177.40 42.00 23.67
1940 2 fOAO .- 45.20 21.48
----
1950 275.50 113.60 41.23
.--.
1960 321.10 173.80 54. 1 ~\
-
1970 418.50
..- ..
241.30 57.66
1980 ~~j!:}.:lO :ill7.00 53.93
.. -
1985 656.20 fi05.:iO 77.00
1986 620.80 4(i8.40 75.45
19~7 0_I'!.:.=!9_ 4-72.50'- 70.07
1988 701. 1() :;04.40 71.9~ _ _ _ _

1989 684.10 __ f-. 477.40 69.78 __

1990 702.34 474.00 65.80
1991 - 754.20 501.20 66.45 _-
1992 7:l2.:m 448.00 61.18
1993 760.80 441.70 58.06
1994 752.90 -428.30 5tl.~ _ _
1995 75G.90 428.40 56:96 . - - -
1996 7~0.00 427.30 56.52
1997 RI0.60 442.20 5G.~m
1998 870.40 454.70 !12.24-.- - ..-. -----
880.20 464.70 52.79
- - -1999
. ----
2000 900.20
._._- 476.10 ~~.:H9_ _ _ _ _
2004 950.00 506.83 5:i. I:J
Source: Various Issues oj Tea ~lal!.'illCs. '/t-(I Board. Koikala

57
The tea market control order came into force from 19th April 1984.
It will be seen from the data that quantity of offerings went up to
1991. It however. showed steady decline. except 2004. With the ever-
expanding middle class in India. packets and branded goods •. ;·e
becoming more and more popular. The number of producer packet.
the sale of which privately permitted under the tea marketing control
order. has increased. The poly pouch with the "garden fresh" slogan
is popularizing packet teas in India. The consumer packets. packed
at the gardens. are sold directly and do not go through the auctions.
Improved communications have also helped expanding the private
sale market.

26. New Tea Auction Rules - Ahuja Committee, 1985

The tea (marketing) control order 1984 was promulgated by the
government of India In April. 984. This order made it obligatory for the
organiZers of public tea auctions and brokers to obtain a license from
the Tea Board. Further-more. all tea manufacturers in India had to
register themselves with Tea Board and sell 75 per cent of their
annual production through the medium of public auctions. The
Chairman. Tea Board being the Licensing/Registering Authority was
empowered to oversee the functioning of the tea auction centers and
to issue directives whenever necessary to ensure that the public
auctions run smoothly. efficIently and in the best interests of all
concerned. The Tea Board. thus. became directly involved in the tea
auction system. The public tea auction system plays a vital role in the
tea trade and industry. There are seven recognized auction centers in
India at Calcutta. Slliguri, Guwahatl. Cochln. Coonoor. Coimbatore
and Amrttsar. Out of the total Indian production of 950 million kg in
2004. 506.80 million kg of tea was sold through the auctions (dctails
in Table 3). The tea auction committees at various centers have been
reviewing the rules governing their respective auction ccnters from
time to time and have been updating them in line with the changing
Urnes. conditions and need. Despite this. the tca board reecived
grievances and requests from all sections of t.he trade to look into
certain areas. which needed further improvement. The "Out lot" sales
and distribution of free trade samples were the first amongst the
issues raised with the Tea Board. In August 1985. by an
administrative order. the Chairman. Tea Board formed a committee
headed by Sri S.S. AhUJa. the then Deputy Chairman. tea board "to
study the existing rules of all the publi8 tea auction centers in India
and to suggest changes wherever nece~.sary to bring improvement in
the auction system". This committee on auction rules also known as
the "Ahuja Cqmmittee" submitted its final report and recommen-

58
daUons in the third week of April 1990. As its first task. the
Committee identified eleven areas. These are (a) auction day. (b)
catalogues. (c) prompt date, (d) broker's commission. (e) size of lots. (f)
brokers commissions. (g) division of lots. (h) withdrawal of lots. (i) sale
of outlets, OJ warehouse rent and insurance. [k) closing of catalogues
and (1) distribution of samples. tor details examination. The Ahuja
Committee submitted four interim repo'l'ts and a final report. the
recommendations of which were accepted by the Chairman. tea board.
The main features of this report were as appended below:

i. Auction Day - The committee had examined the possibility

of conducting auctions at all the centers on the same day
instead of separate days as is the current practice to avoid
'speculative tendencies. if any. The committee, however.
recommended that the present system of holding auctions on
different days at different places should continue as it is
running satisfactorily. The auctions at each center have to be
completed in two days and no more. For this. the auction
committees have been asked to look into their infrastructure
and make additional alternative auction rooms. if reqUired.
The brokers must be given fIXed timings and must strictly ad-
here to them.

if. Catalogue - The committee recommended that CTC leaf.

orthodox leaf. Darjeeling leaf. green tea. all dusts and the
supplemented teas be printed separately. This was because of
sampling norms and proper maintenance of category wise
statistical data. The brokers have been asked to deliver
samples. catalogues etc. strictly within the specified time
limits so that the buyers are not inconvenicnced.

iii. Prompt Data - The committee suggested no major change in

the present system of payment of prompts at the various
auction centers. The buyers and sellers prompt falls due on
different days after the date of the sale at various ccnters. For
example. in Coonoor the buyers prompt, is on the 12th day after
the date of the sale and for the sellers it is the 13th day after
the sale. In Siliguri prompt is payable by the buyers on the
13th day which is paid to the sellers on the 14th day. In
Calcutta. the buyer prompt is on the 14th day for leaf and 15th
day for dust. Although there is no specification on sellers
prompt in Calcutta. the brokers disburse to the producers'
prompt on the same day it is received from the buyers. The
committee recommended that the payment of the prompt to the

59
 seller by the broker should be the next working day Immediately
after the stipulated prompt date of the buyer. The committee
has also recommended that the auction committee should not
extend prompts unless the circumstances are exceptional.

iv. Brokerage - The sellers pay 1 per cent of the selling price
to the brokers as commission. However. in South India. the
brokerage is calculated on the selling price minus excise duty.
Furthennore. buyers pay to the brokers, for various services
rendered at. the rat.e of Rs 5 per 100 kg in Siliguri and
Guwahati. In the South there is no commission payable by
the buyers to the brokers but there is a system of "Jot money"
According to this report. henc.eforth. brokerage paid hy the
sel1er will be calculated on the "knocked down" prlee, thus
changing the current practice in the South.

v. Size of Lots - In the North, tea estates (except DarjceUng)

producing two lakh kg or more will have to pack in lots not
less than 30 packages during manuf~lcturing periods between
1'1 July to 30'h November. The only exceptions will be BPS,
small Dusts and Secondary iII the CTC category and tippy
teas like BPS. Fannings, Dusts and Secondary in the orthodox
category.

vi. Division of Lots - In urder to expedite the speed of sale in

the North Indian auction centers. the committee has
recommended that brokers should not Issue more than two
contracts for 30 packa~cs for under an,1 more t han three
contracts for 31 packages and ahove. No bU)'f'r should get
letis than five packages in a division. IIowev(·r. fIJI' Dal](~ding
teas there is no change recommended and Ihci !'loire lip 10 15
chests one buyer. 16 to 30 chests two buyers and ahovc :\0
chests three buyers will continuc.

I,il. Withdrawal of Lots - In Calcutta. wh(~re auctions normally

takt> place on Mondays and Tuesdays every week. sellers will
have !o give' advauce inlimatloll to the brokers al)()ll'
withdrawal of allY tcas included in the catalogue for sak: at
the Jatt!:-it by 1.00 p.rn on Wednesday of the week Immediately
proceeding tilt' week prior In the sale in question. This
principle will apply to al" oilier NOI·tll Iudian ('entl'rs. In lht:
South this problem is nOt so visible and thpreforc no ehall~e
has been suggested.

60
 viii. Sale Lot Outlets -: The Tea Board had earlier directed that
teas remaining unsold in the auction room should not be sold
as outlcts. The Auction Committees have the option either to
supplement the unsold teas in the following week's auction
without re-sampling or reprinting them in subsequent
auctions with fresh sampling. This practice is to continue.
The quantity of Indian tca sold through different auction centers in
India are presented below:-
Table 4 : Disposal of North and South Indian Tea Through
Various Auctions During 1984 to 2004
(Quantity in million kg)

Particular/year 1984 1887 1990 1993 1997 1999 2004

Total produeUon 639.90 674.:30 720.30 760.80 810.60 880.20 950.00
Quantity sold through
Cah'utta 114.70 132.60 129.20 102.30 89.00 95.10 104.30
-.
Slllgurl 72.20 80.60 90.00 75.80 80.00 85.30 103.20
Guwahatl 89.00 147.70 140.90 151.30 150.20 151.30 158.30
Amritsar 0.30 0.40 0.40 0.10 0.80 0.90 0.90
Total north Indian 276.20 361.30 360.50 329.50 320.10 332.60 366.70
auction sale
-- -----_._-1 - - - -
Quantity sold through
-
..
Coehin 64.00 52.30 52.30 52.00 56.10 58.50 62.50
--
Coonoor 23.00 27.40 36.90 41.00 44.80 57.~iO 62.90
--
Cuimhotor 27.50 :H.50 24.30 19.00 21.20 16.30 14.70
Total South Indian 114.50 111.20 113.50 112.20 122.10 132.10 140.10
auction sale
Total all India 390.70 472.50 474.00 441.70 442.20 464.70 506.80
auction sale
SoUTre : SWill' IlS Tnhl,' -,

ix. Warehouse Rent and Insurance - In Siliguri and Guwahati

the sellers" liability for rent and insurance is up to a specified
time on the prompt date. Thereafter, the liability. passes on to
the buyers. In Cochin. Coonoor and COimbatorc. the goods are
at sellers risk to the extent of sale price only until a specified
time on the second working day after the prompt date.
However. in Calcutta the sellers bear additional 14 days rent
beyond the prompt date. Thc Committee recommended that
the system in Calcutta should be urgently reviewed so that

61
 the system prevalent in SUiguri and Guwahati finds
acceptance in due course and progressively.

x. Closing Catalogue - The committee felt that the availability

of teas for the domestic market. despite seasonality of tea
production in the North. should be regular and adequate all
through. Therefore. regular consultations were suggested to
achieve this objective.
xi. Distribution of Samples - This has been a major area of
debate and the committee's recommendations were elaborate.
The mmmittee felt that issuance of free trade samples to the
trade ('ould not be claimed as a matter of right. Free trade
samples should be worked out and supplied in a manner that
encourages genuine. regular and energetic buyers but at the
same time discourages frivolous and/or casual buying. The
committee. therefore. specified qualifications for small, medium
and large buyers for each category of tea and for each auction
center. The committee further recommended that over and
above the minimum percentage purchase qualification. each
buyer shall have to opf'rate in at least 25 per cent of the
sales held for the category concerned for the purchase year to
be eligible for free trade samples in the immediate succeeding
sampling year. The committee further dealt \\1th matters like
purchase of trade samples. restricted sampling of expensive
teas. defined powers of the sampling committee and status of
'on account of concemed' teas.

27. Quantum of Samples - The brokers ensure delivery of proper

quantum of samples to the buyers in order to streamline the system.
Further. it is recommended that brokers while sending trade samples
must clearly indicate in the challans the number of large, medium
and small samples-category- wise sent in a consignment with its
total net weight. The quantity of purchase samples has been
increased to 300 gm.
28. Bidding Rates - With a view to improving auctioning efficiency
the following scales of bidding should be introduced in Kolkat.a,
Siligure and GuwahaU:

Up to Rs 26.99 20 paise/kg
Rs. 27.00 to 49.99 50 paise/kg
Rs 50.00 to 99.00 I Re. Per kg
Rs 100 & above 5 Rs/ kg

62
29. Claims for Shortages, Non-Delivery, Damaged Teas - The
committee recommended that no claim for short weight will be
admissible unless the shortage exceeds 0.1 per cent of the declared
weight per lot purchased by any buyer. The committee recommends
that where lots purchased by the buyers are not to be found at the
ware house at all either wholly or in part, a compensation
amounting to 30 per cent of value of such teas should be payable to
the buyer.

30. Supervision - The committee considered that way back in

1978, the P.L Tandon committee strongly favoured the public auction
of teas as the best means of bulk marketing and also desired that
infrastructure of the tea board should be strengthened for the proper
supe~ion and co-ordination of the public auction system. Owing to
various financial and other aspects, this has possibly not been given
effect to so far. Tea (Marketing) control order, 1984 issued by the
government under the tea act. 1953, provides that 75 per cent of
the tea production is to be routed through the public auctions
thereby clearly indicating the mind of the government of India in
this respect. The committee, therefore, after carefully reviewing the
situation recommended that the tea board should devise ways and
means of strengthening the infrastructure for proper supervision and
co-ordination of the public auction system in North and South India
to sub-serve the Government policy and the larger public interest.

The Ahuja committee comprised of members, from all sections of the

Indian tea trade and its. recommendations have been sent by the
chairman, tea board to the auction committees. Tea Board accepted
some of the recommendations made by the Ahuja committee report
and therefore it becomes a directive under the tea (Marketing)
control order 1984. The Auction committees can, however. approach
the authorities on specific issues with their problems and
suggestions to ensure easier implementation of the Ahuja committee
report. The 'Report of the committee on auction rules' is a major
report on the auction system and is a valuable document produced
after a great deal of effort and toll. It Is a work of dedication and
shows genuine interest in the working of the tea industry. The
Report will go a long way in further strengthening the bonds
between the trinity of the tea trade. namely. buyers, sellers and
brokers,
31. Collaborations Such as Tata-Telly, MeneU Magor Nestle are
valid inter-national tickets for global market destinations. Big
contract by Iran did help to push up export but such sales cannot

63
be depended upon until demand for a particular brand arises from
consumer level. going alone in the world market to establish a blend
Is a tough job. Indian big business houses are glancIng at tea for
diversification for example lTC-who can use their overseas
connections not only for bulk exports but marketing a brand as well.
Internally most of the big tca companies are buying for better share
of their brands at the consumer level. As a result number of packs
have appeared in the domestic market leading a hcalthy compctition.
A commendable slep was taken by Bombay Burmah group by
creating production facilities for ecologically cultivated tea at
Singampatti-southem tip of India. There is a Wide-open area in
the speciality market.. taping of which calls for marketing skill.
There is no more a fashionable sloAan shouting and bureau tic
luxuries. It is hopeful sign that mature marketing activity is seen
today in Indian tea scene. Hopefully 2010 would begin with a boom
of innovative marketing process.

32. Tea Market Trend

Tea is a tradition bound industry. The changing world order in the

last three years. however. has left its own impact on tea. The
coming down of the Berlin wall and the diSintegration of the former
USSR have led to many changes and opened up several
opportunities for the tea world. 'The first. second and the third world
are moving more and more towards freer economy. freer trade and
freer investment. Consumerism has taken the front seat even in the
developing and poor countries. Further more. the developed cOlin tries
are moving towards healthier products and quallty assurances.
Environmentally friendly bulk packaging is being encouraged and
to put pressure on the exporters, the disposal or "unfriendly"
packaging material Is being made the responsibility of the exporter.
In addition. many new trends have emerged. particularly for Indian
tea. some of which are discussed below.

33. Production

In 2004. the Indian production should reach 950 million kg. which
will be second highest ever. Quality consciousness and the widening
price concertina have put bral~es on rapid growth of production. In
2007. if the weather is right. India should harvest a crop of 1000
million kg. It is also dear that_ unless new areas are brought under
tea cultivation. tea production will grow at a small rate of around 3
per cent per annum. Again, it is Ilecessary to renovate tea arcas.
which arc more than sixty years of age. A replanting programme of

64
two per cent per annum win ensure a rotation over fifty years. An
attempt was made in Union Budget of 2005 to go for Special
Purpose Vehicle for replantation/rejuvenation of tea areas by Tea
Board. It has however not taken a concrete shape.

34. Domestic Market

India's per capita consumption of tea is amongst the lowest. Yet in
volume terms India is the largest consumer. With the population
having reached 100 crore even if an Indian were to drink one extra
cup a year. the additional reqUirement of tea for domestic
consumption would be 2.55 million kg. If ten cups extra were to be
drunk every day by every Indian. then the reqUirement would be
25.5 million kg. Taken into account one cup cxtra to be drunk every
day by 'every Indian. the additional requirement works out to 931
mtllion kg per annum. Indian is indeed a very powerful market.
Another important factor to note is that the Indians drink the very
best of CTCs and are prepared to pay a premium for quality.
Because of the strong domestic base. Indian tea prices are generally
higher than the world prices. The superior qU:llity of Indian tea and
its vast variety has also helped in maintaining higher price levels.

35. Export

It has now become clear that the government of India will not
hinder. in any way. exports of Indian tea. Procedures are being
Simplified and restrictions have been eased or fully removed. The
Government of India and the tea industry have been working
towards improving per unit: returns from exports and value added
products have been gaining ground. Whilst it is unlikely that the
government will impose any resliictions on exports in the foreseeable
future. the pressure from the domestic market will limit the
quantum of Indian tea exports in the years to come. A strategy.
therefore. has to be evolved so that even through the export
quantities remain around 200 million kg. the value will go on
increasing. Barter deals and government-to-government buying
appear to be thing of the past and trading. in future will be done in
hard currency. The former USSR is today an open market and
although there is a preference for Indian teas in the Russian
Federation and CIS countries. other producers especially China.
which has a vast common border. would exploit the large potential
of this market. The producer exporters are already playing a major
role in certain importing countries and this trend is likely to spread
further.

65
36. The Auction System
The major tea groups. today, are increasingly marketing their own
teas either through domestic packers or direct exports. Whilst the
auctions will continue to be the barometer for price levels. more and
more producers are likely to go in for direct marketing. The smaller
producers who have gone in for direct marketing through soft packs
may find the going rough unless they start putting in the essential
marketing inputs like advertising ctc. as well. Their present method
of sale is Virtually bulk- marketing through a third party. The
quantity from these producers is likely to revert back to the
auctions.
37. Import of Tea
From time to time idea of importing tea into India has been mooted.
Importing cheap teas for domestic consumption will not solve the
problem. Indians drink good qual1ty tea and the imported varieties
will not suit their taste. Furthermore, if 40 to 50 million kg of tea
were to be imported. there would be a phenomenal price increase in
the world markets. India has to be very careful so as not to upset
the apple cart.
38. Promotion - Healthfulness
As consumption of tea in certain developed countries Is not
increasing, the time has come to give a new "position" to tea. The
world is today more health conscious than ever before and
"healthfulness" could be the new slogan for tea. The "cheapness"
slogan has to be discarded.
39. Quality
One way of increasing tea consumption, in the world market. is to
ensure that the consumer is served good quality teas. Producers and
importers of tca will have to make sure that sub-standard tcas are
neither produced nor imported. Universal acceptance of intematlonal
standard ISO 3720 wlll help in lifting quality standards of all
growths. India is perhaps the only country today, which strictly
follows rigid quality standards.
40. Culture Products
All the tea bagging machincli, in India is busy fulfilling export-orders
and some domestic needs. Out thc product of the future is instant
tea. Time is not far when a "drinkablc" pure Instant tea, which is
both hot and cold water soluble. will be on the shelves.

66
41. Bulk Packaging
While bulk packaging is still searching for an alternative to the tea
chest, paper sacks are being used more and more. The real answer
Ues in convincing the tea importers to accept gunny bags, which are
already popular in the domestic market.
In the overall. the future prospects of tea appear to be bright and
the tea industry in India is ready to face the challenges of the 21 st
century.
42. Marketing of indian Tea - Domestic Verses Ezport
Indian tea's popular slogan since Independence has been "world's
largest producer, consumer and exporter of Tea". In 2004, however,
Sri Lanka forged ahead and exported 238 million kg against Indian
exports of 205 million kg. AgaIn, in 1991 and 2003 Sri Lanka
exported more than India. Sri Lankan exports for these years were
212 million kg and 235 million kg respectively, agaInst IndIan
exports of 201 million kg and 202 million kg. Another feature of
Indian exports has been the sea change in its profile between 1947
and 2004. In 1947 U.K's share of Indian exports was 66 per cent
and in 2004 it has declined to 12 per cent. On the other hand, the
former Soviet Union, which bought no Indian teas till the 60's
became the major Importer of Indian tea, it accounted for 44.9 per
cent of Indian tea exports in 2004.
Table 5 : Country Wise Exports from India DUI'ing 1947 to 2004
(In mWon kI)

Country I year 1947 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
United Kingdom 127.20 135.40 117.20 74.30 22.40 22.50 25.40 25.00 25.10
% Of export 66.30 68.00 53.80 32.40 11.09 11.09 12.70 12.10 12.11
Ireland 9.00 8.30 6.20 6.40 2.10 2.50 2.60 2.50 2.50
% Of export 4.70 4.20 2.80 2.80 1.04 1.23 1.28 1.20 1.19
Netherlands 1.50 0.90 3.70 3.40 1.60 1.90 2.70 2.60 2.60
% Of exPort 0.80 0.50 1.70 1.50 0.79 0.90 1.33 1.27 1.26
West Gennany NlI 1.:Kl 2.20 5.80 4.70 4.70 6.90 6.60 6.65
% Of export Nil 0.90 1.00 2.50 2.33 2.30 3.40 3.20 3.21
Rest of West Europe 0.60 0.10 0.50 0.90 0.50 0.60 0.80 0.80 0.80
% Of export 0.30 0.05 0.20 0.40 0.20 0.30 0.40 0.40 0.40
Poland NIL NIL 1.80 5.30 10.70 11.90 14.00 14.70 14.75
% Of export NIL NIL 0.80 2.80 5.30 5.90 6.90 7.10 7.11
Yugoslavia NIL Nil 0.50 4.70 1.40 0.20 0.30 0.40 0.40
% Of export NIL NIL 0.20 2.00 0.70 0.10 0.15 0.17 0.16

67
Coautry I year UM7 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
Rest of East Europe NIL 0.10 1.70 1.40 3.30 1.00 1.60 1.40 1.40
% Of export NIL 0.05 0.80 0.60 1.60 0.50 0.80 0.70 0.70
USSR 4.00 7.30 20.70 47.70 96.60 1D4.5C 90.70 92.80 94.10
% Of export 2.10 3.60 9.50 20.80 47.80 51.50 44.70 44.90 44.95
Afghanistan NIL NIL 5.70 8.60 3.60 1.60 0.80 1.20 1.20
% Of export NIL NIL 2.60 3.70 1.80 0.80 0.40 0.60 0.60
Iran 3.90 5.60 1.80 6.60 18.90 14.80 11.70 12.80 12.80
% Of export 2.00 2.80 1.10 2.90 9.40 7.30 5.80 6.20 6.15
Iraq 1.40 0.02 2.50 4.60 8.80 - 0.10 0.04 0.40
% Of export 0.70 0.00 1.10 2.00 4.30 -. 0.01 0.02 0.02
Persian Gulf Ports 4.40 2.60 3.00 6.20 7.00 5.20 6.80 7.02 7.02
% Of export 2.30 1.30 1.40 2.70 3.50 2.60 3.35 3.40 3.40
Jordan NIL NIL 1.40 0.60 - 0.50 0.10 0.60 0.60
% or export - - 0.60 0.30 0.05 0.20 0.20 0.30 0.36
Rest of Middle East 0.60 0.30 0.05 0.07 0.30 - 0.20 0.20 0.20
% Of export 0.30 0.10 0.02 0.03 0.10 - 0.10 0.10 0.10
Pakistan NIL NIL Nil. 4.60 0.60 0.30 0.40 0.4 0.40
% Of export - - - 2.00 0.30 0.15 0.20 0.20 0.26
Japan NIL NIL 0.30 0.80 1.40 2.00 1.90 2.30 2.30
% Of export - - 0.10 0.30 0.30 1.00 0.90 1.10 1.10
Arab Rep. Of Egypt 1.80 7.30 16.60 14.10 7.80 7.90 7.20 7.60 7.60
% Of export 0.90 3.70 7.60 6.10 3.90 3.90 3.50 3.70 3.76
.-
Sudan 0.70 2.00 10.00 13.60 0.10 - 0.10 0.10 0.10
% Of export 0.40 1.00 4.60 5.70 0.05 - 0.05 0.06 0.06
--
Tunisia NIL NIL 3.80 1.20 1.00 1.70 1.50 1.90 1.90
% or export - - 1.70 0.50 0.50 0.80 0.70 0.90 0.90
Rest of Africa NIL NIL - 0.10 3.70
- - -.
7.00 9.80 9.50 9.50
% or export - - - 0.20 1.80 :1.40 4.80 4.60 4.60
-
Canada 8.20 7.70 3.90 2.50 I). SO 0.60 0.10 0.15 0.15
% Of export 4.30
- :i.90 1.80
-
1.10 0.40 0.30 0.05 0.07 0.07
USA 17.30 10.60 8.40 10.00 I.RO 2.50 2.90 3.30 3.30
% or export 9.00
_. 5.:30 :i.90 4.40 0.90 1.20 1.40 1.60 1.60
Australta 7.00 3.40 5.40 4.60 0.70 0.80 0.50 0.60 0.60
% Of export 3.70 1.70 2.50 2.00 0.30 0.40 0.25 0.30 0.30
--1-.
New Zealand 0.50 0.70 0.40 1.:,0 -- - - - -
% Of export 0.30 0.40 0.20 0.60 - - - - -
All other countrtes 3.60 5.00 0.10 0.50 4.30 8.10 13.40 11.95 11.95
% or export 1.90 1:50 0.05 0.20 2.10 4.00 6.63 5.81 5.81
Total 191.70 199.20 217.80 229.60 :101.90 202.90 203.00 208.1S0 201S.00
Same as Table ·1

68
Countries like Poland, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Japan, Tunisia and
even Germany bought no teas from India in 1947 but today are
strong supporters of the Indian produce. Iraq. Iran. Gulf. ARE have
been buying more but Canada. USA. Australia, New Zealand and the
UK. have reduced their purchased from India substantially. In the
57 years period since 1947. African Countries. particularly Kenya.
have been giving stiff competition to Indian eTe teas and have
gained popularity in the hard currency areas. Sri Lanka, on the
other hand. a major producer of orthodox. has been stepping into
the Indian orthodox exports and took credit for catering to the entire
expansion and demand in the orthodox segment. The only exception
has been the former USSR who has supported Indian orthodox
varieties strongly. Sri Lanka has been catering to the growing
markets, of ARE. Iran. USA. and Pakistan.

An encouraging feature of Indian tea exports has been a rise in

value added goods and instant Tea. Packet exports in a 24 years
span between 1981 and 2004 went up from 32 million kg to 125
million kg. thus showing and increase of about 400 per cent. The
instant tea exports in the same 24 years period nearly doubled
raising. from 0.78 mUlion kg to 117.68 million kg. Exports of value
added teas have gone up in 9 years from 33.85 million kg to 116.68
million kg. In value terms the earnings from Packets increased from
Rs 69.98 crores to Rs 836.65 crores: in the case of tea bags the
earnings raised from Rs 3.26 crores to Rs 13.58 crores. The total
value of Indian exports in 2004 was Rs 990.50 crores as against
Rs 55.38 crares in 1947 and Rs 76.90 crares In 1999.

India's share in world exports is shown in table below:

Table 6 : India's Sbare in World Exports During 1947 - 2004

(In miWOD kI)

CoUDtry/yeu 1947 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
India 191.70 199.20 217.80 229.60 201.90 202.90 203.00 204.20 205.60
% Share 53.30 39.90 35.60 28.20 20.70 17.90 13.20 lR.50 IR.25
Sri Lanka 130.30 166.80 216.50 185.50 201.20 212.40 234.85 2~R.05 242.50

% Share 36.30 33.40 35.40 22.70 20.60 18.80 21.24 21.52 21.60
IndoneSia 3.90 38.80 26.60 51.30 90.40 109.6(J 103.90 102.5(J 104.20
% Share 1.10 7.80 4.30 6.30 9.20 9.70 9.40 9.60 9.70

Bangladesh N.A 4.50 N 26.00 21.60 25.30 24.30 25.40 25.45

% Share N 0.90 N 3.20 2.20 2.20 2.40 2.30 2.32

69
Ccnmtly/yfIIII' 1947 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
lU:nya 4.40 8.20 19.70 70.20 135.00 191.60 245.50 251.10 255.20
%Share 1.20 1.60 3.20 8.60 13.80 16.90 22.20 22.70 22.73
Uganda 1.10 2.80 9.60 .14.70 2.10 4.70 15.20 15.10 16.10
% Shan! 0.30 0.60 1.60 1.80 0.20 0.40 1.40 1.40 1.42
Tanzania 0.50 2.40 6.20 12.00 11.40 15.00 18.80 19.90 20.95
% Share 0.10 0.50 1.00 1.50 1.20 1.30 1.70 1.80 1.82
Malawi 5.90 8.80 16.80 29.90 33.40 41.20 36.50 35.40 36.20
% Share 1.70 1.80 2.70 3.70 3.40 3.60 3.30 3.20 3.21
Mozambique 1.50 5.90 14.40 15.60 2.10 1.00 0.42 0.95 0.97
% Share 0.40 1.20 2.40 1.90 0.20 0.09 0.04 0.05 0.08
Others 20.20 61.70 84.40 180.60 277.50 338.40 223.23 213.60 216.15
% Share 5.60 12.30 13.80 22.10 28.40 29.90 25.12 18.93 19.25
Total sse.1SO 481UO 812.00 8111.40 878.80 1132.10 1108.70 1108.20 1122.72

N : Ne~lglble. Source : Same as Table 1

In the domestic front also. the scene has changed. In 1947. Indian
consumption was only 39 per cent of production and in 1999 this
figure reached 76 per cent. In the past. the equation was "Indian
consumption equals production minus exports". In the eighties. this
equation was reversed and on several occasions. the government
restricted export to conserve tea for the domestic market. The details
of Indian consumption of tea in given below:

Table 7 : Indian Conswnptlon of Tea During 1947-2004

(In million kg)

Partlcu- 1947 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
lara/Year
Consum- 98.5 112.9 180.7 302.0 446.0 520.0 635 670 740
pUon
Growth - 14.6 60.1 67.1 47.6 16.6 22.1 5.5 10.5
(% age)

Average - 1.46 6.01 6.7 4.76 4.1 3.6 2.3 2.1

annual
rate of
growth
% age •

70
 indian Tea CODsumption - As Percentage of ProductioD
Partlcu- 1947 1957 1967 1977 1987 1991 1997 1999 2004
lIad/year
Consum- 98.5 112.9 180.7 302.0 446.0 520.0 635.0 670.0 740.0
pHon in
m. kg
Production 254.8 . 310.8 384.8 556.3 674.3 741.7 810.6 880.2 950.0
in m kg
% Of pro- 38.7 36.3 47.0 54.3 66.0 70.1 78.3 76.1 77.9
ductlon

The break-up of the Soviet Union has therefore had a strong impact
. on the Indian tea market. However. it gl'lined momentum over the
years. Russia and other CIS members did not cross 45 million kg.
Total IndIan exports thus touched 205 million kg. IndIan domestic
market continues to grow at around 2 per cent per annum. the
1999 domestic consumption was about 670 million kg. By 2004 this
figure was 725 m1ll10n kg. If export of 205 million kg is added,
production in 2004 was about 940 mUllon kg. The ere element of
Indian consumption is over 94 per cent. It is estimated that in 2010
the Indian requirement for eTC teas has been estimated at 1034
million kg. which would go up to 1050 million kg in 2012. State
Wise split of estimatcd consumption of tea is furnished below:

Table 8 : A state-wise spUt of

estimated cODsumptlon during 1991-1999
(IIlWOD kg)

Partlc:u1IU'B/Year 1991 1995 1999 2004

Uttar Pradesh 44 50 57 67
t---
Bihar 18 23 25 25
Maharastra 67 76 86 99
West Bengal 38 43 48 52
Andra Pradesh 25 30 32 33
Madhya Pradesh 32 38 40 43
Tamll Nadu 21 23 26 28
Rajasthan 45 48 52 56
GuJarat 45 50 57 67
Orissa 10 12 18 20

71
 Partlculan/year 1991 1995 1999 2004
Kerala 33 37 40 44
Assam 18 20 23 25
Punjab 40 45 50 55
Haryana 18 20 22 24
Jammu & Kashmir 10 15 20 22
Kamataka 26 30 34 36
Others 30 35 40 44
Total 520 1595 870 740
Source same as Table - J

New strategies Will have to be evolved for the Russian Federation,

CIS and Pakistan_ Above all, exports will have to be given a clear
priority over domestic need. While future supply and demand, on the
overall. appears 'hand to-mouth' the future of specialty varieties.
such as Darjeelings and Assam orthodox. would depend upon
aggressive marketing.

43. Unrestricted Import of Tea: To Allow or Not

Proposal of ministry of commerce, Government of India, modified tile

export-import policy (1992-97) With a view to facilitating the EOU/
EPZ to freely import teas for bulk-re-exports generated unfathomable
dissatisfaction among many Barons of the India's tea industry. Tea
imports were allowed with t.he rider that they should be used only
for re-export with a 20 per cent value addition. But the imports were
Insignificant because the facility was limited to re-export of pa('kaged
teas, tea bags and Instant tea. The Commerce Ministry sough I the
industry's view on allowing bulk re-export of tea blendcd with the
imported product. Barons of the Indian tca association asserted: (i)
having an exportable surplus, India does not. need to Import teas: (it)
if the Imported low grade teas are blended with better stuff of the
country to export as tea bags, packets. instant tea, its image would
be damaged at the international market and exports suffer in the
long run; (iii) under the Exim policy (1997 - 2002) for tea, exporters
were not allowed to sell any portion of the manufactured items in
the domestic market. But the leaders of the Indian tea industry
feared that once bulk teas, allowed to he imported, there would also
be an option for unloading t1~sc tcas in the domestic market. And a
few larger business houses, lacing suff ('ompetiUon in the domestic
market, would practically use the cheap imported product to reduce
thelf' prices in a bid to earn and maintain substantial profit and
72
hold the domestic share; (1,,) import of teas by India would raise
international prices of teas while depressing domestic markets, a
situation, which would adversely effect the growth of tea industry
that may eventually lead to recession. The aforesaid premises, as a
corollary, led many barons of the industry to raise strong objection
against the government's intention of further liberalizing the Exim
policy, which may open t.he floodgates for import of teas. They felt
that the policy. if implemented. would nut, in anyway, help the
growth of the country's tea industry. But, however, one should not
be touchy and emotional while considering the pollcy of import.
Rather, it was imperative to visualize the necessity of imports in the
perspective of reality. And no denying the fact. that only such a
study can help comment Judiciously either in favour or against the
proposed policy.

44. Production vis-A.-vis- CODsumption

Whilst it was unlikely that the government would impose any

restrlction on exports in the foreseeable future, the pressure from
the domestic market would limit the quantum of Indian tea exports
in the years to come. AS stated earlier that with the country's
population touched to 100 crore. ever if an Indian was to drink one
extra cup a year, the additional requirement of tea would be 2.55
mUllon kg: again. if tcn cups extra were to be taken every day by
every Indian, the additional requirement would be 931 million kg per
annum. But how much the industry with its present capacity can
produce at the maximum? It may be mentioned, however. that
highest tea production was achieved in 2004 at 950 million kg. And
it was high in 1999 with the crop amounting to 880 million kg,
indicated by Mr. AK. Bothra, chairman, North Bengal bmnch of the
India tea association at the 27th annual general meeting of the
association. And this achievement Is. of course. due to maximum
favour of all inputs, practically the climatic condition. But he
reiterated that the tea industry Immediately reqUires more additional
plantation area to meet the target of 1,000 million kg by the end of
the twenty first century. Otherwise, tea production will grow at a
small rate of around 3 per cent per annum. Nevertheless. it Is
necessary to renovate tea areas, which are more than sixty years of
age. A replanting programme of 2 per cent per annum will ensure a
rotation over 50 years. Obviously, the argument in favour of
'exportable surplus' needs be reconsidered. It is a plain truth that if
not today, tomorrow India will have to import SiZeable quantity of tea
either. or to curtail its export for the sake of domestic. consumer.
Otherwise. where is the guarantee that. in the near future, domestic

73
consumers w1ll not be strangulated with severe pressure of demand-
pull inflation? Where Is the guarantee that the industry will be able
to maintain exportable' surplus, as expected? These matters are,
indeed, related with the industry's social obllgatIon to two segments-
first, obligations to domestic consumers in terms of right price for
the right product at the right time; second, obligation to the nation
in terms of help1ng earn foreign exchange. Contextually, the
observation of Mr Jimmy Hilditch may be referred to. In course of
summing up the convention papers presented at the U.K. Tea
convention held in May 1993, the following table shows the future of
India's exportable surplus of tea.

India
Partlculan/year 1950 1960 1970 1980 1992 1995 1997 1998 1999 2004
Exports (m/kg) 181 193 200 224 190 167 203 205 206 205
Production 1m/kg) 278 321 419 570 704 756 810 870 880 950
Population (million) 354 429 539 675 869 915 935 937 952 1005
Per Capita (kg) 0,21 0,29 0,39 0,57 0,61 0,68 0,74 0,79 0,87 0.95

He observed: During this period India's "production has increased

remarkably. So, too. have their population and the per capita
number for the same period. With these statistic it is difficult to
assess how India can feed internal demand and increase exports
without increasing production".

45. Imports for Re-ezport

There are countries llke U.K. U.S.A., importing huge quantity of teas,
of course, high grade. to re-export them in the value added from. It
should not go unnoticed that international buyers are fast leaning
towards packet tea, instant tea and tea bags. So, it Is high time to
catch them young. Indian tea barons should realize this fact. They
should further appreciate that endeavour to re-export value added
teas will help to find new markets and to contribute more foreign
exchange in the national exchequer through nontraditional way.
This is likely to attract new investment also. This besides, two other
significant matter should not go un-escaped from our view. First,
India's overwhelming depcnder.ce on traditional buyers - RUSSia and
CIS, who were the principal buyers of Indian tea? Although, at the
moment, India enjoys comfortaqle posHlon the possibility of creating
discomfort by the Infiltrated s('Uers in these markets should not be
over~looked. The 'seller's market' at t.hat time was turned to 'buyer's
market'. Second. China Is preparing vigorously to exert Us pressure

74
in the international market. Tea is listed as one of the key export
commodities. Due to over-whelming importance of hard currency
earnings it was very likely that the China government proVided all
sorts of incentive to the tea Industzy. It is worth noting that between
1950 and 2004 total tea area in that country increased by more
than 7 times, 155,000 hectares to 1,115,300 hectares. Output
increased by more than 3 times over the same period from 255 m
kg to 950 m kg. Export-increase accounted for 10 times from 18 m
kg. in 1950 to 205 m kg in 2004. Nevertheless, China has the
greatest range of tea in different grades and varieties. China intends
to be at the top of the list of tea traders in the world market. And
no denying the fact, China may, at the earliest opportunity,
penetrate in the Russian and CIS market. Keeping in view this
possibility, the industry should right now find new market, which
may easily be possible with selling value-added teas.

46. Standard of Quality

Of course, the standard of quality matters much at any export trade.

It may be recollected that only a few years back the quality of tea
sold to Russia was so bad that million kgs of tea were destroyed.
Serious complaints were lodged to the tea board. Russian television
cautioned the domestic consumers with the words: "Don't Sip Indian
tea". No doubt, industry's good\yia has been severely damaged by
this act of the exporters. The questions are obviously, who has to be
bJamed for this event; what measures have been taken so far to
prevent recurrences. The Tea Board, being the appropriate authority,
should devise full-proof measures to ensure quality. Tea Board
should (1) scrutinize every export order received: (it) ensure the
creditworthiness of the exporter; (iii) arrange intensive cheCking at
the time of shipment; (tv) arrange random cheddng after un-loading;
(v) introduce mandatory use of the Tea Board's logo, subject to the
fulfilment of stipulated conditions. for every export.

47. Conclusion

It is unlikely that with further liberalization of imports, the domestic

market will be flooded with low- grade imported tea. For the
Gresham's Law does not hold good in an open market. The law
reacts in the opposite manner-good product drives away bad
product. As far as India's domestic tea market is concerned,
consumers here drink the best of CTCs. Not only that. they are
prepared to pay a premium for quality. Because of the strong
domestic demand Indian tea prices are generally higher than the

75
world prices. And It is to be noted further that in volume terms
India is the largest consumer. Evidently, in the perspective of the
country's consumer behaviour it is doubtful that to what extent
importers will be able to sell the low grade imported stuff to increase
their profits and be able to exert dominant voice in the domestic
market.

It was unwise to view that once India started buying of low priced
tea, the price of its produce in the international market would have
fallen. Some Asian sellers would have been benefited out of this
transaction. From the viewpoint of open market economy, however, it
was felt that the aforesaid promise was not correct. In an open
market mechanIsm only the appropriate substitute and its price
played a dominant role in determining the demand of the principal
product the vice-versa. Since Indian importers intended to import
only cheap variety of teas, the price of Indian tea was likely too
remain unaffected until now suppliers entered the market. And in
this matter the only threat was likely to come from China- the Asian
Dragon-having a large variety and quantity of tea at its disposal.

In the light of the above study It was viewcd that there was no point
of becoming shaky even though the Ministry of Commerce allowed
free import of teas for re-exports in bulk as well. The only necessity
Is to remain alert against the unscrupulous traders who may take
the advantage of import liberalization policy of the Government of
India Just to further their own interest.

76
Part· Five: Oolong and Other Teas - World
Production, World Exports & Imports,
Producers and Importers of Green
Tea etc.
48. Introduction
Thc origin of green tea dates back to 1611 when the East India·s
Company established a factory for manufacturing green tea in
Hirado Island in Japan. Until about a decade ago, green tca was
mostly consumed in the producing countries in Asia and North
Africa. China is the main producer and consumer of green tea.
Green tea is getting increasingly more attention in the world markets
becahse of its health benefits. It ('ontains more vitamins and
minerals than black tea and produces many effects that can fight
infection and disease in human bodies. World green tea production.
consumption and exports are mainly dominated by China followed by
Japan. Indonesia. Vietnam. India. Bangladesh. Sri Lanka etc.
io Distinct Quality - Green tea is distinct from black tea in as
much as the brew from it on infusion of water is nearly
similar to the brew from fresh green tca leaves. This
characteristic Is maintained because of killing of enzymes
which cause oxidisatlon of phenolIc components. As a result
of aclton of bacterla and other micro-organisms. the green tea
leaf as also the black tea leaf. spoils easily. TIlerefore. It has to
be pt'eserved for use during off-season and transportation to
distant markets. The most prlmitive. and by far the cheapest.
method of preservation is sun drying which removes moisture
from tea leaves thereby preventing spoilage. Unlike black tea.
green tea is not fermented during its manufacture and the
green colour and the chemical composition is maintained to
retain the original characteristics. Green teas rich in caffeine
and tannins are qUite distinct because of their bItter or
astringent taste due to polyphenol1cs.
ii. Mantifacturing Processes - There are two distinct and
prominent methods of making green tea. De-enzymtng Is
typical of green tea processing which can be done through
either steaming or pan- heating. Rolling and tWisting can be
done either through baking or roasting. The Japanese method
uses the steaming process to deactivate the enzymes whereas
the Chinese follow the pan heating method. In both cases,
raw materials used are high quallty leaves and buds. freshly
harvested from green bushes.
77
 iii. Conservation Ratio - On an average 4.2 to 4.8 kg of green
tea leaves are required to manufacture 1 kg of manufactured
black tea, whereas 4.6 kg to 6.1 kg of leaf are required for
making 1 kg of made green tea. Green tea is more vulnerable to
spoUage under adverse keeping conditions than black tea and it
has to be stored under controlled atmospheric conditions.

49. World Production of Green Tea

World production of green tea has been growing conSistently and

increased from 167.06 m kg in 1978 to 667.61 m kg in 1999. The
share of green tea in total tea produced has been conSistently
increasing and Japan dominated with more lhan 60 per cent share.
From September 1980 onwards. China started having a much larger
share. However. Japanese productton of green tea has declined 50
much so that it has only 12.81% share In comparison with China
which produces nearly 75 per cent of the world production of green
tea. Vietnam has been also increasing production of green tea and of
late it has a stable 5 per cent share.

The share of green tea produced in total tea has been conSistently
increasing from 9.35 per cent in 1978 to 23.45 per cent in 1999.
Itables 13 and 141. However, green tea has less than 10 per cent
share in world exports of tea and that share has been fluctuating.
More and more green tea production js retained in producing
countries for domestic consumption.

Table 13 : Percentage of Green Tea Production

1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988
--- - . - -. _. -_. .. _ -
India .. _ 4.72 3.7:3 2.40 l.nB 1.97 1.66 1.8B 1.0G l..-l'l :.!.I :1 1.55
.- - - - -._. - - --. _. ---- , - - - . -
Dangladesh
Srllank.'l (Medl
-'
0.31 0.12 0.12 0.11 U.11 0.09 0.06 0.22 iJ..':i
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
.....
0.19
0.19
0.16
f).20
0.27 0.2R
_--. -----
0.'12 0.26 0.24
--_._
Indonesia 10.43 11.75 5.82 7.89 5.29 6.78 6.85 7.93 7.:i4- - -
6.38 5.97
._--- --
China 0.00 0.00 50.70 52.11 58.26 !l6.l'}. 57.04 55.18 57.71 61.S!) t35.7G
._- f - - - f--- .. -_----
Japan 62.6!) 60.38 29.06 26.46 23.22 23.RI 21.76 22.10 21.02 19.70 17.4:-.
. -f - - - - -
--- _ --
- --- ~
4.(;4
VIetnam
Geor~a

Russian Fed
ti.56
C).OO
0.00
t9.55 ...4.52
0.00
-- f-------
0.(':(\
0.00
0.00
4.40
0.00
0.00
4.36
0.00
n eo
0.00
0.00
5.06
._-
0.00
0.00
5.30
f-.
0.00
0.00
--
5.01
0.00
0.00
4.42
0.00
0.00
4.27
--
0.00
0.00
---
USSR/CIS
Total Green
-to
13.29 14.40' '1.39
.. -
7.08 I 1l.60
.--- ---t_.--
i
_
f--- .
6.75
..
7.10 7.03 6.5H
167.06 162.32 3:)2.00 38tJ.b!l ·j:l4.21 431.26 425.15 432.17 445.32 486.50 514.72
4.93 4.55

Tea produc-
Uon 'Il! kg! I
78
 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 ·1983 1984 1985 1988 1987 1988
% share of 9.35 8.93 19.05 20.53 21.79 21.00 19.39 18.88 19.56 20.78 20.79
Green Tea
In total tea
produced
IIJ118.00 1890.00 1991.00 1992.00 1993.00 1994.00 1995.00 1998.00 1997.00 1998.00 1998.00
India 1.62 1.59 1.82 1.67 1.27 1.25 1.43 1.41 1.35 1.34 1.23
Bangladesh 0.19 0.27 0.24 0.20 0.16 0.19 0.09 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.04
SrUanka (Med) 0.19 0.18 0.15 0.07 0.24 0.24 0.08 0.09 0.09 0.10 0.06
Indonesia 6.57 6.58 6.13 6.22 5.62 5.66 5.76 6.13 5.88 5.90 5.54
China 63.51 64.32 66.46 69.04 71.61 71.67 72.28 71.89 72.41 74.61 74.44
Japan 18.29 17.39 16.35 16.36 15.68 15.35 14.8] 15.10 14.90 ]2.83 ]3.26
Vietnam 4.51 4.60 4.54 4.48 4.41 5.00 5.17 5.04 5.07 4.82 5.09
Georgia 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.33 0.29 0.26 0.36 0.33
Russian Fed 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.04 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.01
USSR/CIS 5.13 5.07 4.31 1.96 1.02 0.64 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Total Green 494.91 5]6.91 537.73 562.46 587.54 562.10 572.44 587.32 612.02 643.62 667.61
Tea Produc-
Uon (mkg)
% share of 20.24 20.:"6 20.84 23.09 23.04 22.32 22.70 22.23 22.53 21.73 23.45
Green Tea In
total tea
produced
Source : various Issues oj rrc Bulletin. London

50. World Exports of Green Tea

World exports of green tea in 1999 totalled 144.82 m kg. 70 per
cent more than what it was two decades ago. In 1978. China had
60.75 per cent share in production. consumption and export of
green tea in the world and the same had increased to 84 percent in
1999. [Table 141.

Table 14 : Percentage 8hare of Green Tea Exporting countrie8

1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1988 1987 1988
Indla(e( 3.77 3.27 1.44 4.58 4.32 4.93 1.58 2.23 2.59 5.72 3.21
Srllanka 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.1 ] 1.33 1.10 1.74 1.89 1.23 1.35
Indonesia 0.05. 0.16 0.14 0.15 0.31 0.15 0.19 0.16 0.14 0.21 0.14

China 60.75 61.82 67.57 64.82 70.96 69.96 83.40 83.22 85.07 84.41 84.07
(Mainland)
Taiwan 20.38 19.10 14.66 12.18 5.25 6.46 3.66 3.37 3.05 1.70 2.11

Japan 4.55 3.99 3.70 4.18 3.90 2.96 3.80 2.42 1.69 1.27 1.32

Vietnam 10.50 11.65 12.48 14.09 15.16 14.22 6.27 6.86 5.57 5.46 7.81

79
 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1988 1987 1988
Total Green 74.25 76.38 72.10 63.88 62.67 70.33 71.80 72.69 71.77 82.38 93.51
Tea Exports
mkgl
% of Green 9.24 8.98 8.39 7.50 7.64 8.08 7.63 7.65 7.38 8.47 9.03
Tea
% of Green 44.46 47.1!i 20.48 16.51 14.78 16.32 16.89 16.87 16.13 16.92 18.16
Tea Prod'n
exported
% of Green 55.54 52.85 79.52 83.49 85.22 83.58 83.11 83.13 83.87 83.08 81.84
Tea Prod'n
retained
1889.00 1990.00 1981.00 1993.00 1983,00 UIIH.oo 1991S.00 11198.00 1997.00 1998.00 1899.00
Indla(e! 2.93 3.15 3.09 2.47 2.69 2.94 3.65 4.10 3.08 2.30 2.07
Srtlanka 0.02 0.44 0.03 0.40 0.62 0.73 097 0.55 0.49 0.36 0.38
Indonesia 1.48 1.82 2.67 4.48 10.08 7.43 3.93 5.91 4.51 2.71 5.06
China 85.83 86.92 86.86 85.41 79.36 81.00 81.38 76.34 80.94 85.78 83.99
(Matnland!
Taiwan 1.78 1.06 0.91 1.05 0.69 0.74 0.99 1.59 0.71 0.27 0.38
Japan 0.62 0.30 0.26 0.25 0.27 0.30 0.56 0.58 0.51 0.50 0.52
Vietnam 7.33 6.30 6.18 5.94 6.28 6.B5 8.52 10.93 9.76 8.06 7.60
Total Green 74.25 76.38 72.10 63.88 62.67 70.33 71.80 72.89 71.77 82.38 93.51
Tea Exports
(mkgJ
% of Green 9.10 8.39 9.02 9.95 9.67 9.91 7.53 6.51 8.13 10.05 11.64
Tea
% of Green 20.66 18.41 18.05 17.98 18.95 18.17 14.37 12.47 15.90 20.22 21.68
Tea Prod'n
exported
% of Green 79.34 81.59 81.95 82.02 81.05 81.83 85.63 87.53 84.10 79.78 78.32
Tea Prod'n
retained

Source : uarfous Issues oj rrc Bulletin, London

51. World Imports of Green Tea

Prior to 1990 Pakistan was a key importer of green tea but

thereafter Morocco emerged as the most significant importer with
over one-half of world imports (Table 15).

RO
 Table U5 : Countries Importing Green Tea
1% 8hare)

1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999

Austria 0.04 0,06 0.3 0.17 0.28 0.36 0.48
UK 1.77 2.93 2 1.47 1.1 0.71 0.89
Belgium and Lux. 0.88 1.13 0.41 0.38 0.16 1.17 0
Denmark 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.02 0.06 0.03
Finland 0.01 0.02 0 0.08 0.14 0.04 0
Germany 0.58 0.51 0.88 2 3.27 7.15 9.74
Ireland [Rep.] 1.13 0.11 0.05 0.01 0.18 1.47 0.17
Italy 0.42 0.24 0 0.58 0.5 0.32 0
Netherlands 1.36 1.18 1.52 2.15 2.25 1.83 1.32
Switzerland 0.05 0.04 0.06 0.17 0.23 0.4 0.57
Total [mkg] 52.23 60.29 62.4 62.38 70.19 72.92 76.15

1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999

Japan 10.49 7.83 10.36 17.35 16.11 8.66 15.82
Pakistan 8.03 6.02 3.24 2.89 0.8 1.32 1.57
Egypt 0 1.97 0.29 0 0.25 0.03 0.21
Morocco 50.56 54.35 60.18 45.32 49.79 54.85 46.26
Australia 0.41 0.37 0.41 0.51 0.4 0.49 0.57
New Zealand 0.04 0.1 0.02 0.02 0.29 0.2 0.06
Tunisia 2.87 3.32 3.4 3.37 3.56 2.71 1.84
USA 9.39 9.66 8.51 9.26 5.9 8.62 10.1
Canada 1.7 2.04 2.13 2 2.26 2.31 3.39
France 10.25 8.11 6.21 12.26 12.5 7.3 6.97
Source .' Various Issues oj rrc Bulletin. London

52. Producers of Green Tea

i. China - Nearly 75 per cent of all tea produced In China Is

green tea and China has 84 per cent share in world exports
of green tea (Table-2). China also exports sizable quantity of
other teas. which includes Oolong tea. Pouchong tea and
speciality teas.Production of green tea in China includes
several sequential processes. China produces several types of
green tea, each with distinct flavour and taste (Box-I).

81
 Fresh leaves
~
Spreading
~
De-enzyming
~
Rolling and twisting

+ ~
Pan Roast Drying Bake drying machine
~ ~
Roasted Green Tea Baked Green Tea

+ +
Long shaped Round shaped

Box - 1 : Chinese Method of Making Green Tea

According to available statistics. China' s exports of green tea have

fluctuated between 55.87 mUllon kg and 121.63 million kg during
the pertod 1990-99 lTables 4 & 5) On the whole, the export market
for Chinese green tea is balanced and well distributed. The key
destinations have been Morocco (23 per cent share) followed by CIS/
USSR [13.86 per cent}, Senegal (6.25 per cent), USA (5.70 per cent).
and Afghanistan (5.19 per cent). Exports to Mali during 1990·99
have been only 2.96 per cent with a very high coefficient of
variation indicating a very high fluctuation in percentage share
that has ranged betweenO.18 and 9.54 per cent. In 1999. Mali had
4.87 per cent share in the Chinese exports of 121.63 million kg of
green tea. This was of course less than the share of Morocco
and USSR/CIS. Pakistan with a 4.40 per cent share and a
high rate of growth has been consistently importing green tea from
China.

China also exports sizable quantity of other teas, which Includes

Oolong tea. Pouchong tea. and speciality teas (Tables 14 and 151.
Quantities have ranged between 23.16 million kg in 1990 and
3.65 milllon kg in 1997. Japan had imported nearly half of these
exports.

82
Table: 16 Analysis of Per Cent Share of Exports of Green Tea
from China 82.80 Per Cent Share of World Exports of Green Tea
{l990-99 averages}

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997

III (2) (31 (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
France 3.62 2.11 2.25 4.64 2.7 2.7 0.72 2.22
USSR/CIS 12.09 16.41 6.26 17.53 22.86 1.99 11.67 22.57
USA 6.35 5.4 5.72 4.53 6.24 7.54 10.13 4.2
Afghanistan 6.78 2.81 4.64 10.1 2.74 6.42 8.86 5.49
Hongkong 5.94 5.46 10.01 8.43 9.62 4.17 2.47 3.94
Japan 1.69 2.51 4.11 4.84 3 3.47 5.3 4.87
Pakistan 3.03 1.07 4.37 2.92 6.04 5.51 7.8 5.98
Algeria 4.45 6.93 2.76 0.66 0.28 0.2
Ubya 3.81 3.58 9.07 0.59 2.69 1.38 2.16
Mall 0.18 0.56 0.79 0.46 1.13 9.54 3.54 2.27
Morocco 30.8 33.61 30.12 24.22 20.47 22.76 14.73 13.46
Nigeria 3.67 3.67 1.61 5.96 5.29 7.71 3.87
Senegal 3.37 3.78 3 3.96 4.99 7.65 10.24 9.04
Tango 2.7 1.87 2.47 1.95 1.36 2.46 1.71 3.36
Other countries 15.2 10.22 10.76 14.21 12.89 17.11 13.46 16.36
Total exports lmkgl 82.73 84.33 86.32 88.43 82.72 66.68 55.87 18.78

1998 1999 Ay" COY G. Rate MIn. Maz.

(91 (101 (111 (121 (l31 (14) (15)
France 10.88 5.88 3.77 76.43 6.39 0.72 10.88
USSR/CIS 13.16 14.04 13.86 47.13 1.56 1.99 22.86
USA 3.75 3.17 5.7 35.89 -4.59 3.17 10.13
Afghanistan 2.31 1.76 5.19 55.11 -7.13 1.76 10.1
Hongkong 2.94 0.58 5.36 59.05 -18.88 0.58 10.01
Japan 0_74 2.71 3.32 44.52 -1.82 0.74 5.3
Pakistan 2.88 4.42 4.4 45.09 9.35 1.07 7.8
Algeria 4.9 1.82 2.75 89.97 0.2 6.93
Ubya 0.6 2.99 92 0.59 9.07
Mall 6.23 4.87 2.96 104.64 43.98 0.18 9.54
Morocco 13.18 25.68 22.9 32.38 -7.91 13.18 33.61
Nigeria 4.02 5.21 4.56 37.94 1.61 7.71
Senegal 10.45 6.05 6.25 46.19 13.69 ~ 10.45
Tango 3.75 3.33 2.49 31.75 5.27 1.36 3.75
Other countries 20.81 19.88 15.09 23.4 6 10.22 20.81
Total exports Imkg) 111.68 121.63 85.94 22.23 2.07 55.87 121.63
Source : Var10us Issues qf nc .Bullelfn. LDndon

83
 Table 17 : Quantity-wise Analysis of Green Tea Ezports from
China 82.80 Per Cent Share of World Ezports of Green Tea
{1990-99 mkg average.}
Average CV Growth Rate MIn. Maz.
France 3.63 96.76 8.59 0.41 12.51
USSR/CIS 12.11 49.34 3.67 1.33 18.91
USA 4.6 16.11 -2.61 3.31 5.66
Afghanistan 4.15 50.11 -5.2 2.14 8.93
Hong Kong 4.48 61.54 -17.19 0.7 8.64
J!:tpan 2.71 40.21 0.21 0.83 4.28
Pakistan 3.61 37.63 11.61 0.91 5.38
Algeria 2.54 90.05 0.16 5.85
Libya 2.44 98.19 0.53 7.83
Mali 2.57 106.37 46.96 0.15 6.96
Morocco 19.82 39.46 -6 8.23 31.23
NiR;eria 3.82 36.62 1.42 6.33
Senegal 5.32 52.82 16.05 2.59 11.67
Tango 2.23 50.08 7.45 0.95 4.19
Other countries 13.3 43.44 8.2 7.52 24.18
Total Exports 85.94 22.23 0 55.87 121.63
Source: Variow; issues qf rrc: Bulletin. London

Table 18 : Percentage Share of Exports of Other Tea from China

(1990-99 averqe.)
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997

USA
_- --
(I)
4.57
(2)
5.58
(3)
5.80
(4)
4.00
(5)
2.33
(6)
2.11
(7)
2.56
(8)
3.47
Afghanistan 1.23 4.12 1.68 1.43 3.81 3.61
Hongkong 32.45 30.95 27.11 22.41 18.61 17.08 15.48 18.54
Japan 40.35 48.96 44.JO 36.12 44.64 57.47 57.67 49.95
MalaYSia 3.36 3.37 I.Yl 2.32 2.18 2.43 2.43 2.33
Mon!l;oUa !1l9 0.00 2.94 I:um 0.04 0.25 0.02
Singapore 2.30 3.\9 4.03 4.19 6.44 6.48 3.46 4.07
Other countries 7.79 7.87 12.8R 12.95 24.07 12.74 14.57 18.03
Total exports ImkgJ 23.1G 25.72 24.76 27.08 :i2.12 31.69 32.83 36.54

1998 1999 Avg CV GRate MIn Max

(9) (10) (II) (12) (13) (14) (15)
USA 4.40 3.90 3.87 33.05 -4.21 2.11 5.80
Afghanistan 2.68 0.95 2.44 52.32 0.95 4.12
Hongkong 16.23 17.60 21.65 29.10 -7.64 15.48 32.45
Japan 49.94 55.37 1-'48.46
-_- 14.91 3.24 36.12 57.67
Malaysia 2.95 4.07 2.74 24.75 1.25 1.91 4.07
Mon~olia 0.00 0.00 2.93 174.11 0.00 13.89
Singapore 3.42 1 <J2 :t90 40.85 -2.61 1.42 6.48
-
Othl"r countrles 20.38 16.69 14.RO 34.87 9.46 7.79 24.07
Tot.."\1 exports lmkgl 36.16 44.38 31.44 20.75 6.73 23.16 44.38
Source :
.
Varlou.~ (.~su ..s oj rrr: Bullelln. l.ondon

84
 Table 19 : Ezporta of Other Tea from China
{1990-99 average.}

Quantity-wise (mkg)
Country Average CV Growth Rate Min. Max.
USA 1.19 30.7 2.24 0.67 1.73
Mghanlstan 0.8 51.48 0.3 1.32
Hongkong 6.52 15.38 -1.43 5.08 7.96
Japan 15.5 31.68 10.19 9.35 24.57
Malaysia 0.87 41.5 8.06 0.47 1.81
Mongolia 0.96 151.45 0 3.76
Singapore 1.21 43.78 3.94 0.53 2.07
Other countries 4.84 47.03 16.83 1.8 7.73
Total 31.44 20.75 6.73 23.16 44.38
Source : Various Issues oj rrc Bulletin. London

ii. Japan - Black tea production has practically ceased after

1971 since it had become highly uncompetiUve after trade
liberalization. Production of green tea in Japan has been
gradually decreasing since 1980. Japan Is a mountainous
country and about 60 per cent of tea plants are located on
the hillsides and plateaus in Shizuoka. Kyoto. Mie and
Kagoshima districts. The Japanese method of manufacturing
green tea is a complex process involving several steps and
several types of green tea are manufactured in Japan. Japan
is a significant producer of green tea and most of it is
consumed internally. The share of Japanese tea to total green
tea export was only 4.55 per cent in 1978. However. it has
reduced to 0.52 per cent in 1992. Japanese exports are
mainly directed towards USA and Canada.The method of
manufacturing green tea is a complex process involving
several steps. Several types of green tea are manufactured in
Japan with the details as under:
In addition to the domestically highly popular grade Sen Cha
made of young tendf"r leaves and well twisted. Japan produces
several other grades of green tea. Gyokuro or Peorl Dew is the
finest tea in Japan made from leaves grown under the shade
which reduces the tannin content. increases caffeine and
amino acids. brightens the colour of the leaf and sweetens its
flavour. Matcha or ceremonial tea Is made of leaves from
shaded bushes. The manufacturing process is similar to that
for Gyokuro but without rolling. After drying. the product is
pulverized, Kamairicha Is made in Kyushu district. The raw

85
 materta11s the same as In Sen-cha, but the first process Is
parching in place of steaming. It has a curly appearance.
Bancha is coarse tea, made of coarser leaves, or by separating
from raw Sen-cha in the refining process.
Source: Kunio 0 Tea Industry in Japan "Tea Science and Human
Health" Proceedings of the International Symposium on Tea
Technology. Kolkata.
Table 20 : Exports of Green Tea from Japan
{1990-99 _e...,e.}
1984 198& 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994
Green Tea % 98.03 97.62 96.03 94.49 97.62 94.63 87.89 87.54 88.62 92.99 90.14
Green Tea 2.73 1.76 1.21 1.05 1.23 0.64 0.28 0.25 0.26 0.31 0.31
[mkg]
Total tmkg) 2.79 1.81 1.26 1.11 1.26 0.S7 0.32 0.29 0.29 0.33 0.35
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 AVI· CV Growth MID. Maz.
Rate
Green Tea % 93.7 86.21 86.03 86.47 91.18 89.08 3.14 -0.02 86.03 93.7
Green Tea 0.46 0.43 0.5 0.65 0.76 0.42 41.41 5.45 0.25 0.76
fmkgl
Total [mkg) 0.49 0.49 0.58 0.75 0.83 0.47 41.46 5.48 0.29 0.83
Source : various Issues oj rrc Bulletin. l..ondon

fif. India - India produces only a small quantity of green tea. Its
share in green tea production has been declining from 4.72
per cent in 1978 to 1.23 per cent In 1999. During 1993-94
India exported 3.36 m kg (nearly 84 per cent of green tea
production) to Afghanistan and Russia. In 1999 India exported
around 3 m kg having a 2.07 per cent share in world exports.
Although India is not a large consumer of green tea, In the
hilly regions of Kangra and Kashmir valleys. green tea goes
well with low temperatures. In some Indian markets green tea
is also sold as herbal tea usually mixed with aromatic
condiments.

During 1993-94 India exported 3.36 m kg (nearly 84 per cent

of green tea production) to Mghanistan. Thereafter exports to
Mghanistan declined .rapidly but exports to Russia picked up.
Like black tea, Ru~sla has been having a large share In
Indian green tea exports. Percentage share of green tea export
from India was 2.07% in 1999. The procedure In Ind~
regarding green tea is as under:

86
53. Process chart of Incllan Green Tea

Freshly plucked leaves

+
Steaming (upto 2 minutes]
+
Curling and drying (In hot air at 90D-I00DC for 40-50 minutes
the leaf moisture reduces from 76% to about 50%]
+
Rolling (without heat for 15 minutes)
+
Pressing and drying (hot air at 50 D-60 DC for 30-40 minutes,
leaf moisture reduces to about 30%)
+
Curling (Drying directly on a hot pan at 800 - 90 DC
+
Twisting [for 40 minutes under pressing and rolling by a
curling-hand mounted on a pan)
+
Drying [at 80 C until moisture content of 6% is achieved)
D

+
Made Sin Cha
+
Storage

Temperature below lOODC, moIsture content below 6% concentration

of oxygen lower than 2% and humidity controlled inert gas
packaging.

iv. Indonesia - Indonesia produces about 37 m kg of green tea

with 5.54 per cent share in world production. Indonesia has a
large demand for scented teas and a stgniflcant proportion of
Indonesia green tea is scented using Jasmine. red gambir and
other types of flowers. Therefore Indonesia has only 5.06 per
cent share in world exports of green tea. Since 1989,
Indonesia has exported Sizable quantity of green tea to the
Middle East and Morocco.

87
Table 21 : Percentage share .and unit value of exports of greeD
tea from Indonesia 4.86 Per Cent share of World GreeD Tea
Exports
{1990-99 aye...,_}

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 19915 1996 1997

Green Tea % 1.56 2.35 3.72 9.06 8.94 4.08 4.26 6.56
Green tea mkg 1.73 2.6 4.53 11.23 7.59 3.23 4.33 4.39
All teas mkg 110.96 110.33 121.78 123.93 84.92 79.23 101.53 66.84
1998 1999 Ay, CV G.Rate MID MD
Green Tea % 5.26 7.56 5.34 49.1 12.62 1.56 9.06
Green tea mkg 3.54 7.33 5.05 56.67 7.06 1.73 11.23
All teas mkg 67.22 96.99 96.37 21.84 -4.93 66.84 123.93
Source : various ISsues oj ITC Bulletin London

Table 22 : Exports of GreeD Tea from IndoDesia

{1990-99 averagee}

Quantity-wise (mkg)
Avg CV Growth Rate Min. Max.
Green Tea 5.05 56.67 7.06 1.73 11.23

All Teas 96.37 21.84 -4.93 66.84 123.93

Source : various Issues oj rrc Bulletin London.

54. Importers of GreeD Tea

f. Consumer Preference - Major importers of green tea are

Japan. USA. Indonesia. North African countries and
Mghanistan. The consumers in these markets have different
tastes and preferences. However. a common feature generally
sought is that the dried green tea leaves should have bright
olive green colour without any brown or red. The Chinese
green tea is preferred in Japan and USA. Chinese green tea
leaves are generally poHshcd using French chalks or gypsum
and coloured with indigo. Mghans prefer the green tea liquor
Similar to Chinese green tea and unlike the Moroccans. they
are much less fussy about the appearance of the dry tea
Jeaves.

ii. Morocco - Morocco has the largest market for green tea
having Import.eci as much as 35.23 m kg in 1999 and almost

88
 all of that came from mainland China. Imports of green tea in
Morocco have been rising and so also its share in the world
imports. During 1990-99, Morocco imported an average of
33.67 m kg having a 51.62 per cent share at a moderate unit
import price of US ~ 2.10. Imports from China have been
consistently increasing [98.4 per cent share In 1999J. Per head
consumption of tea in Morocco is in excess of 1 kg.

iii. Japan - Japan has been a significant consumer of green tea

but its imports have been less than one-fourth of the imports
of Morocco. Of the total tea imported during 1993-99, black
tea had taken an Increasing share between 28 to 42 per cent.
In terms of per unit import value In 1993, green tea was only
44 per cent of the black tea and 59 per cent of the other
teas. While the volume and unit value of imports of other teas
has been somewhat declinIng. the unit import value of green
tea has Increased slightly from use 2.20 in 1993 to US$ 2.45
per kg in 1999.

iv. France - Nearly 82 per cent of green tea imported in France

is from China and 13 per cent is re-exports from Belgium.
The French market had paid an average of US$ 3.71 per kg.
The quantity imported has fluctuated and the average for
1990-99 was 5.36 m kg in 1997 as much as 8.78 m kg of
green tea was imported.

v. USA - USA imported an average of 6.20 m kg of green tea

during 1990-99 in which China had nearly 77.68 per cent
share. The popularity of green tea in US is largely on account
of its health benefits which has been receiving increasingly
more and more media attention. Although imports from other
countries are small. they receive higher unit import value
when compared to China. which on average received Just
about US$ 1.11 per kg.

vi. Tunisia - Although in 1997 Tunisia imported 2.5 m kg of

green tea Imports. this was abruptly halved in 1999. A highly
fluctuating pattern of imports of green tea In Tunisia from
China existed during the years 1990-99 with the average of
82.46 per cent Further the quantity-wise [mkgJ average
imports of green tea in Tunisia from China for the period
1990-97 Is 1.38.

89
 vii. canada - In 1999 Canada imported 2.58 m kg of green tea.
Imports have been increasing consistently and exhibiting a
good growth. rate. China. Hong Kong. Japan and Taiwan are
the main sources although US also had nearly 34 per cent
share. Green tea from Taiwan fetched the highest price at
USS 4.49 per kg whereas China. Hong Kong and USA teas
fetched under US$ 3.5 per kg.

55. Ooolong Tea

i. China - Oolong tea is produced mainly in FUjian and

Guangdong provinces of mainland China and Taiwan. Oolong
tea is semi-fermented. In 1990. 90 mUlion cases of Oolong tea
and 70 million cases of black tea were produced in Japan.
Oolong tea is more stable than other beverages and is
therefore easier to pack in tins, cans or bottles. As black tea
is milk or lemon flavored, its storage in vending machines Is
somewhat difficult. For these reasons, Oolong tea has found
favour With the food processors particularly in Japan.

fie Taiwan - Tea production in Taiwan has been declining and

production In 1999 at 3.07 m kg was less than one-third of
the production in 1987. Production of green tea has been
declIning and reached a low of 0.55 m kg in 1999. However.
Taiwan is a key producer of Oolong tea and almost all of its
production in 1999 was of this type. During 1990-99, the
share of green tea in tea exports has been between 14 and 33
per cent. Information on exports of green and other teas from
Taiwan Is not available.

90
Part Six : Current Tea Trends, FAO Projections
Domestic Consumption, Imports,
Research & Development etc.
56. Current Tea Trends
Next to water. tea is the most widely consumed non-alchoholic
beverage world over and it is grown in more than 32 countries.
Amongst them. India is the largest producer (28% of the world
production). World Tea Trade is going through a significant change.
While developed markets stagnate. growth is expected in the
developing countries. These markets have now been opened in the
wake of wro regime. This Will facllitate increasing global competition
In the areas of cost, price. quaUty. supply schedules. packagIng.
market focus and customer satisfaction.
In India. tea is grown in 13 States with diverse agro-cItmaUc
conditions. Tea productlon in India has been increasing and so also
has domestic consumption. Increased production in tea was achieved
by enhanced productivity through introduction of high-yielding clonal
material. improved water management and transferring results of
research to the field. Further. cultural practices such as pruning
cycles. proper use of fertilizers and foliar applications of nutrients
and plant protection measures using safe chemicals have increased
yields. Production also increased on account of increased plant
density and rehabilitation of old tea lands through replanting. using
the best available planting materials and better husbandry. Vast
resources of skilled and motivated workers. competent managerial
manpower. strong research backing. modernized and upgraded
manufacture etc .. have all contributed to a sound base and
progressive industry. The growth profile in terms of compound
growth rate of area. production. productivity. yield and exports
during the last five decades is given below :
Table 23 : Growth rates of area, production,
yield and export of tea
Period Area Production Yield Export
-
1950-60 0.45 1.16 0.98 -0.39
1960-70 0.74 2.98 1.98 +0.47
1970-80 0.67 3.48 2.37 +1.06
1980-90 0.96 2.03 1.48 -0.68
1990-00 0.53 1.35 0.83 -0.34
2000-01 0.67 2.19 1.53 -0.03
Sourc:e : X PWe Year Ran. Report Oft sub-group on Plantation Crops n - Ministry oj Commerce
91
57. Food and AgrIculture Organisation (FAO) Projections for 2005

According to FAO, world black tea production is estimated to be in

the region of 2700 million kg of which India's contribution is
expected to be 1015 to 1018 million kg. World consumption by 2005
is estimated to go up to 2670 million kgs. and India's export is
likely to rise to the level of 246 to 250 million kg. China, Indonesia
and African countries are expected to increase production. There will
be a production surplus of 24 million kg and possible imbalance and
downward pressure on prices. Of course the emergence of that
situation is contingent upon weather conditions in production areas.

58. DecUne in the Rate of Domestic Consumption

The recent study conducted on behalf of Tea Board by the Indian

Institute of Management. Calcutta (IIMC). reveals that tea consump-
tion has not been of the order as seen in the past. Expected annual
domestic demand for the next 5 years as estimated by liMe is as
follows:

Table 24 : Demand projections for Tea

Year Rural Urban Total

2000 388 265 653
200] 398 275 673
2002 408 285 693
2003 418 296 714
--
2004 428 307 735
---
2005 439 318 757
--
2006 450 330 780

Source: X Flue Year Plan. Report on Sub-group on Plantation Crops 11 - Ministry oj

Commerce

59. Imports

Imports touched around 14 million kg In 2004 against average levels

of I to 2 million kg In the past. The unique CIF value of tea
imported from a few countries was lower than the prices faced at
Indian auctions. This has aCfeded market sentiments. With the
emerging trends in the giobaUscd economy. markets can no longer
be protected. Indian Tea Industry will have to compete in the

92
domestic market. Protecting the home market is going to be a
challenging task and the Tea IndusUy has to evolve some strategy to
counter the new competing forces unleashed by globalization.

Continued supplies of tea at reasonable prices to the domestic

market and to maintain and improve the export share in the global
tea trade were the twin objectives of the previous plan period. These
twin objectives hold good for the X Plan period and they could be
fulf1lled. only if the industry continues to grow with profit and
remains healthy.

60. Present Status on Research and Development in Tea

i. R&D Contributions on Tea - Tea Research AssociaUon and
UPASI Tea Research Foundation have released 30 hlgh-
yielding vegetative clones each. This has enhanced productivity
from 1416 kg. per hectare in 1981 to 1850 kg per hectare in
2000 in North India and 1645 kg per hectare to 2300 kg per
hectare in 2000 in South India. UPASI-TRF-I recently released
in South India has yield potential upto 11000 kgs per
hectare.

Biotechnological approach in tea breeding has progressed

towards protoplast fusion. haploid line and market develop-
ments In pruning. DNA. finger printing and patenting of elite
clones. Nutrition in Tea is now based on computerised model
and green leaf yield potential. Sulphur and zInc nutrients
have been accommodated along with NPK requirements.

Cultivation aspects like prunIng. shade management. organic

nutrition in soil. soil amendment and application of weedicides
and balanced application of fertilizers have been refined over
the years to harvest increasing yield. Further. Irrigation
Drainage Technologies in tea have been improved and their
requirement in improving yields has been establlshed.

Protection of crops is linked to minimum application of

pestiCides and its linkage to follow Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) practice. Maintaining bio-diversity and
minimum or no pesticide residue is the call of the day.
Biocldes and blocontrols have been developed. ChemiStry of
Tea manufacture and flavour chemistry of Tea have helped in
refinIng manufacture of Tea on scienttfic basis and
understanding the role of enzymes involved in it.

93
 Quality Improvement In Tea has been achieved through
training, modernization of factory, upgrading of plucking
standard and Improving sanitation and hygienic situations.
ISO-9000 and HACCP as a package for quality improvement.
have been introduced.

Research on health benefit aspects has yielded positive

results. Tea drinking is beneficial in the cure of Hyperten-
sions. diabetes, cancer, kidney, malfunction, dental carles etc.
Tea contains antioxidants which help human beings to avoid
many health complications. Packaging of tea is now being
done with recently developed packaging materials llke jute,
laminated bags, multi-wall paper sacks and use of flexible
packaging substances.

if. Approach to X Plan Period. - Specific areas of research can

be Identified to launch new areas of fundamental research in
different fields, like advance programmes in bio-technology,
characterization of clones etc. Nutrition of Tea Plants Is a grey
area. Computer sirnu-tation models for balanced nutrition for
Tea will be a step to apply non-contents of fertilizer to the Tea
plant based on variable crit.eria like soil conditions, bush
frame and age, environmental factors etc. This will help in
scientific management of tea estates in accordance with the
production need.

Computer aided database, if stored for future utilisation and

guidance to the management and sectional information of tea
gardens will help both the research institutes find tea estates
to save time and initiate prompt action in taking corrective
actions. Quality of Tea can be enhanced from the information
on bio-chemical pathways, if these are identified and packages
are developed.

Electronics can play a big role once the bio-chemical

pathways are identified anc:1 these are linked to eomputer
sensors By-products of Tea can be gainfully utilized for other
industrial use. Similarly, value added items like RTD,
flavoured tea are the areas on which new research could be
thought of.

-
Sustainablllty is a rna_lor prohlem in Tea. It Is observed that
Tea productivity is not Increasing In the replanted areas. This
has been linked to soil Sickness. reasons for which are not

94
 well established. Bio-agriculture Is a new research area, which
can give answers to the problems as indicated, in organic tea
estates with stable yields.

Quality control is a major issue in Tea. The Quality Control

Laboratory Chain in South India as well as in North India
needs to be strengthened soon. Well developed field
laboratories for quality testing of tea and monitoring of
adversities with Tea Estate is essential. The conducive
environment for trade has prompted such steps to ensure
quality tea production. If needed, a phased programme can be
developed and computer net work monitoring may be
essential.

81.,New Proposal for Research During X Five Year Plan

Network programme for transfer of technology. computerlsation and

software development. data collection and strengthening of transfer of
technology units in each zone (7 centres in North East. 7 centres in
South India and connection with base laboratories) have been made.
A chain of Quality Control Laboratories (4 in North East - Tocklal,
Dibrugarh, Cachar. Nagrakata), upgradation of laboratOries in South
India (Valparal. Coonoor. Vandiperlyar, Gudalur) have been establi-
shed. Proposals relating to (1) Integrated Nutrition Management and
Computer Simulation of data in each of the Advisory Centres and
connecting base laboratories including development of models. (11)
Irrigation and Drainage Research Project, (111) Bio-chemical Analysis
and QUality Upgradatlon Programme in North East and South India
and (tv) Development of Forecasting Model for Pest

Disease Control including Bio-control aspects are on the process of

implementation. Soil management and Organic Cultivation of Tea,
Tea and Human Health. Value Added items and Product Diversifi-
cation in Tea, Packaging, Eco-friendliness and other related areas
and Bio-technology in Tea are new proposals for research in the
Tenth Five Year Plan.

95
Part Seven : Exports Markets & Competitiveness
62. Introduction

Keeping in view the global competition in black tea mainly among

India. Sri Lanka and Kenya. there is need to assess their competitive
positions. The World Bank study has done so in the context of Sri
Lanka's tea industry. This analYSis ITable 11] while quite useful1s
based on recent theories of competitiveness as per Porters Framework.
That framework. and for that matter other writings in this area are
largely based on manufacturing industry while the agricultural scene
is rather different. The framework with suitable modifications. would
perhaps be suitable for application to the industrial part of agriculture
but not quite so far to agricultural production and trade commodities
whld1 continues to be analyzed in traditional theories of comparative
advantage. One takes a rather simple View of competitiveness in global
trade in tea. The competitive positions in the market are a cumulative
expression of interactive effects of all variables from production and
processing to consumer markets.

The details of global players in tea industry [country position of

competitive factors are given below) (Table 25)

Table 25 : The Global players in the Tea Industry :

Country position OD Competitive Factors

India Sri Lanka Ken,..

Natural Resources and Human Capital
Land Average Wt:ak Strong
Water Resources Average Strong Strong
Quality of tea bushes Weak Weak Strong
Yields Average Weak Strong
Avallabflity and quality of workers Average Average Weak
Literacy rate Low High Average
Macro economic Jtnvironment
Macro economic and sector policy Weak Average Strong
Sector investment growth Weak Averag~ Strong
Exchange rate regime Strong Strong Strong
Trade and tax regime Weak Strong Average
Prtce regime Weak Strong Strong
Labour regime Weak Weak Strong

97
 IDdia Sri Lanka Kenya
Infrastructure
Transport and communications Weak Average Weak
Marketing Average Weak Strong
R&D Average Weak Average
Extension Average Weak Strong
Marketing Environment
Key market's size and growth rate Strong Average Average
Income and growth of income tn key markets Weak Average Strong
Price position In key markets Weak Strong Strong
Competitive strength Weak Average Average
Micro-marketing and co-ordination
Prod uction I Marketing co-ordination Strong Weak Strong
Local Processing and linked industries Strong Strong Average
Quality control - Strong Strong
Risk shartng - Strong Strong
Technical. finanCial and managerial skills Weak Average Strong
Cost structure Average Weak Strong
Marketing strength Average Average Average
Product Innovation Strong Average Weak
Source: ReproducedJrom World Bank (1997/. Sri Lanka's Tea Industry. Discussion
Paper No. 368 Wa.shington DC. August p.86

63. Competitor Anallsis of Sixteen specific Markets

An attempt has been made on the basis of data given in Annexure

II to present competitor analysis for 16 specific markets, which
together cover an average of over 70 per cent of world imports of
tea.On the supply side, analYSiS have been made on 13 countries,
commanding over 96 percent of the world exports. For illustration.
conSider the UK market. During 1990-99 it commanded an average
13.01 per cent share in the world imports in quantity 145.99 m kg
and rate of growth @0.24 per cent and per head consumption 2.52
kg per annum. All in all. UK is a very large size market to which
many countries supply. Sri Lanka. a key supplier to the UK market.
has a 6.16 per cent share with a decline in rate of growth at -
3.44 per cent with unit input value at US$ 2.01. As regards. Sri
Lanka. 5.2 per cent of tea exports from Sri Lanka have gone to UK
with growth rate at - 6.15 per cent and an export unit value
realisation at US$ 1.97. For each cell in the Annexure-II,
interpretations are similar anrt provide the basis of comparison and
assessing competitive position.

98
Comparing relative position in terms of market share rate of growth in
market share and unit value realisation yields a good understanding of
competitive position which are summarized in Annexure-m.
For illustration, Kenya is the market leader with 28 per cent of the
total World Tea Market. comprising UK. Pakistan. Egypt and Ireland.
In contrast, India is a market leader only in 16 per cent of World
tea market which includes Russian Federation. Poland and Germany.
For Sri Lanka leadership is of 2.5 per cent markets. China leads in
7.5 per cent for markets but a large share of that is in green tea.
Argentina has a market leadership in USA. which commands a 7.53
per ccnt share in the world imports (Annexure-ID).
Analyzing markets in this framework. an understanding of and
evaillating the competitive pOSition. would help the tea industry to
develop competitive products and market strategy. After all.
Paulskrugman puts it. "A country does not loose in the competitive-
ness game but performance of firms do. An individual firm is
competitive and it can "sell its goods at the market price and make
money". Otherwise the firm goes bust but the economy does not.
However, in case of tea. economies of small nations would also falter
if their firms fail to compete. Thus consequences of uncompetitive-
ness could be a disaster for both countries as well as firms
depending upon how important tea imports are to their economies.
To that extent. India. as a nation. has a large cushion and that is
probably the reason for our complacency and lack of competitiveness
in world markets.
64. Area, Production and Exports of Tea of Different Countries
Although as many as 34 countries are producing tea in the world,
the major countries are India, China, SriLanka. Indonesia. Kenya,
Uganda. Myanmar etc. On an average. India has an area of 498
thousand hectare with an average annual production of 830 million
kg showing an average yield of 1666 kg per hectare. Sri Lanka. on
an average. cultivates tea to the extent of 191 thousand hectare
producing average an annual crop of 295 million kg with the yield
rate of 1545 kg per hectare. In spite of the fact that China occupies
more than twice the area (average of I 115 thousand hectare) held by
India, the production was not Significant it was only 689 million kg
on an average. This was due to low yield rate [618 kg per hectare).
On the export front. Kenya exports 93 per cent of total production
followed by Sri Lanka at 83 per cent. Indonesia 66 per cent. China
36 per cent. India 24 per cent etc. There are various reasons for low
exports from India and these are discussed separately in Part VII.

99
 Table 26 : Area, Production and Export. of
Tea of Different Countries
a. Area Under Tea In Different Countrle. (Area In '000 hectare.,
Year Inella Srl Lanka Cblna IadoDeUa KeDy& Ueanda MyaDJIUII' athe.... Total
1989 415 221 0 129 87 21 58 555 2551
1990 416 221 1061 135 97 21 59 550 2560
1991 420 222 1061 137 100 21 58 551 2570
1997 434 194 1076 154 118 20 67 627 2690
1998 474 195 1056 157 118 20 68 604 2692
1999 490 195 1130 157 120 20 68 512 2692
2000 504 189 1089 157 122 21 68 515 2665
1141 161 132 21 514 2735

.1
2001 509 189 68
2002 512 189 1155 162 132 21 68 517 2756
b. Production of Tea In Different Countrle. [gty In mWion
Year Inella Srl Lanka Chlna IDdoDuia KeD,.a U,anda Myanmar athe.... Total
1989 688 208 525 147 181 5 50 689 2503
1990 720 234 540 161 197 7 36 689 2584
1997 731 278 665 158 240 20 54 738 2883
1998 798 280 670 159 245 22 57 721 2952
1999 825 284 676 161 249 25 60 693 2973
2000 847 307 683 157 236 29 60 673 2992
2001 853 296 702 161 294 33 60 692 3091
2002 826 310 715 166 287 34 60 701 3099
c. Ezport. of Tea from DlfIerent Countrle. IQty In mWion kg.)
Year India Srl Lanka China Indone.l. Kenya Uganda MyanlDU ptheno· Total
1989 213 204 204 115 163 3 5 218 1125
1990 210 215 195 111 170 5 5 224 1135
1997 188 256 194 105 220 18 25 244 1250
1998 189 260 195 102 230 20 25 234 1255
1999 191 262 194 99 242 22 25 225 1265
2000 207 280 228 106 217 26 25 245 1334
2001 183 288 250 99 258 30 25 262 1395
2002 201 290 253 100 268 31 25 264 1432
Source : T(.'Q statistics. T(."Q Board oj India. Kolkata
Note : CD Others' Indude I3anWadesh. Taiwan. Japan. Vietnam. Papua & New Guinea. USSR!
CIS. Iran. Turkey. Tanzania. Malawi. Mozambique. Zaire. Mauritius. Rwanda.
Burundi. Cameroon. Argentina Brazil. PI·ru. Ecuador. Zimbabwe. Thailand. Malaysia.
South Africa. Australia. Ethiopia and Nepal.
Others' Indude Bangladesh. Taiwan. Japan. Malaysia. Vietnam. Papua & New
Guinea. Iran. Turkey. Mala~. Mozumblque. Zaire. Mauritius. Rwanda. Brundl.
Argentina. Brazil. Peru. Ecqu...!or. Zimbabwe. Cameroon. Thailand. Nepal. Myanmar.
Geor~la. Ethiopia and South Afrl(·a.

100
Part Eight : Constraints, Suggestions & Remedial
Measures
65. CODstraints
Viewed from long-term perspectives. the Indian Tea Industry has
several constraints that are directly affecting both production and
productivity. The following are some of the important constraints.
)- Old age of tea bushes - Nearly 40 per cent of present tea plants
in India have exceeded the economic threshold age limit of 40
years. This has been affecting productivity.
» Umited availability of land for extension in traditional areas of tea
cultivation.
» Slower pace of replantation. the rate of replantation Is less than
0.4 per cent as against the desired level of 2 per cent
» Fluctuations in tea prices.
» Higher rate of taxation on income from tea.
» The dual structure (agriculture and industIy) of Tea IndustIy has
resulted in the IncIdence of hIgh taxes. some of which are not
applicable to non-plantation agriculture.
• Stiff competition from soft drinks is needed to position tea as a
health drink.
)- Poor drainage and lack of irrigation when needed greatly reduces
yield.
)- There Is consIderable gap between potential and current tea
yields.
)- Low productivity and high cost of production on account of high
input cost particularly wages and the social benefits that always
with wages. reduce attractiveness of tea production.
)- Untrammeled growth of small growers and poor adherence to
quality production norms.
66. Cost of Production
Labour cost accounts for a major part of the total cost of production
of tea which has been Jising sharply. The stagnation in productivity

101
levels Is compounded by high land labour ratios. The productivity
and cost of production matters the most in determining the
profitability of tea estate. Considering the high cost and inadequate
resources. the owners of tea gardens prefer to continue with the
existing tea bushes for reasons of economy.

87. Production Base Getting Concentrated

India's Tea production is skewed towards black tea. especially the
CTC variety which accounts for 98 per cent of production. Within
black tea, CTC variety is dominant for reasons of strong flavour and
higher cuppage and productivity. What counts in the Indian
domestic market is strength. affordabUity, cuppage and availability.
Orthodox tea constitutes a Significant portion of the world tea trade
and fetches higher price realisation than CTC variety. Sri Lanka
dominates in supply of orthodox tea. Lower cost CTC tea producers
like Kenya, etc. are competing against Indian tea for market share
and has displaced Indian Tea in key export market cities like UK.

Domestic production of orthodox tea has dropped by 40 per cent

during the nincties; however, orthodox tea has significance in the
World trade. Indian Tea Industry Jags behind Kenya, MalaWi in
terms of yield per hectare mainly due to old age of tea bushes. The
aging bushes are plllJing down gains from adoption of improved
cultural practices and Increase in areas under tea. Domestic
prodUction of green tea Is marginal; China dominates the global
market for green tea.

88. IS8ue8 Impacting India's Export Performance

There are various issues which have some impacts on the

pt;rformance of Indian exports. If these issues are addressed
squarely, there are hopes of increasing India's exports. These are as
follows
);10 Inadequate efforts made In respect of marketing and brand
bulldlng of Indian tea in overseas market.
» Exposing India's tea exports to concentration of risk arising out
of over-dependence on Commonwealth of Independant States
(CIS), UK and UAE.
-.
» For CIS and UK markets, ~rowth rates have been slower as
compared to other import destinations.

102
 )0 Indian teas are getting edged out of emerging higher growth
markets by competing produce from Sri Lanka, Kenya and China.
)0 A large market l1ke Pakistan which accounts for 9% of world
imports remains closed to India. Black eTC tea from Kenya
dominates consumption in Pakistan. Though Indian Tea would
work out cheaper on landed cost basis in Pakistan, trade in tea
remains marginal because of political sensitivities.
)0 Stagnant export reaUsation.
)0 Limited presence in emerging markets.
)- Market share depleting in matured markets.
)0 Tea'exports constitute less than 2 per cent of India's export revenues
and hence it has not been covered under the priority list.
» Given policIes and regulations are oriented towards protection of
domestic market: availability of tea in domestic market and price
stabJlity are the over riding concerns dictating policy fonnulation.

69. India's Competitive Position In World Tea Trade

India's competitive position has weakened in the world tea trade due
to various reasons which are discussed in various interaction meets/
work shops/seminars etc of national and international nature. The
following factors are held responsible for such weakness:-

);> India's tea exports are facing a double crunch with a production
slow down and loss of share in major markets sezved and inability to
make significant headway in potential/emerging markets.
)0 World export growth @5.3 per cent Compound Annual Growth
Rate (CAGR) was higher than India's export growth @3.4 per cent
- CAGR during the period 1995-99.
)0> Export realisations in dollar terms have been stagnant during the
1990·s.
)0> Region-wise trends indicate that other than the CIS countries,
India's share has been declining (in North America. India
continues to be a marginal player).
)0> In UK, the second largest importer after the CIS group, Indian
tea has lost significant market share to Kenyan produce.

103
» In green tea China has registered a much higher growth rate
(@15.3 per cent CAGR) than Indian tea exports (@3.4 per cent
CAGR) during 1~95-99.

» Even in India's traditional strongholds, CIS, Sri Lanka has made

significant inroads since 1993 following the disbanding of the
centralized marketing system. The main reasons attributed to Sri
Lanka's success are better and more organised marketing efforts.

70. IncUan Tea Industry - Supply Side Constraints

The Indian tea industry is facing various supply side constraints.

The rate of growth of land under tea cultivation dropped from the
level of 15 per cent + during the 1970's and the 1980's to about 6-
7 per cent during the 1990's. Growth in land under tea cultivation
was much higher in Kenya and Indonesia during the 1990's. India
already has the second highest area under tea cultivation after
China and further scope for expansion is limited.

India's cost of production is higher than that of Kenya and Sri

Lanka essentially due to the higher production overheads, beSides
labour costs. Thus Indian CTC tea is less competitive than Kenyan
produced tea on the issue of pricing alone. With the opening up of
the Indian market post wrO. a possible scenario is that cheaper
imports may cater to the domestic demand while finer quality tea
could be diverted to export markets.

The inward-looking nature of the tea Industry has resulted in a lack

of innovation and genuine value creation efforts and the result is a
rather diluted export focus due to lack of competitiveness in
international markets. Consumer satisfaction more than production
effiCiency is the key to long-term suIVival and growth. The Indian tea
industry thus has to move towards 'productising' Indian tea into a
'consumer product'. It needs to shift away from the commodities,
nature of exports in order to move up the value - curve.

The industry needs to address the issue of value creation through a

concerted effort that addresses the product form and the delivery
system (with the accent on convenience and innovation in
packaging). Focused brand building and a marketing campaign that
positions tea as a 'healthy alternative to other beverages' and
reinforces the superior value of Indian tea, are critical. The industry
also needs to establish strategic ~1l1ances In its major markets.

104
71. Schemes during the Xth Five Year Plan
For effectively dealing with the constraints, the following five schemes
have been taken up for the X Plan period [2002-07).
i. Plantation Development Scheme - Under this Scheme,
extension of loans will be continued for undertaking extension
planting, replanting/replacement planting and procuring
irrigation equipments. Similarly, subsidy support for
replanting/replacement planting, rejuvenation pruning and
consolidation will also be continued. Renovation of the existing
field assets rather than expansion would be the thrust area
during the X Plan. Further, subsidy for irrigation and subsidy
for new planting at different scales Is possible under the
scheme.
,
if. Quality Upgradation and Product Diversification Scheme -
Under this scheme, loan will be advanced for procuring tea
processing machinery, tractors, Ught commercial vehicles,
packaging machinery and setting up of cooperative factOries.
During the X Plan period. t.hrust would be on more value
realisation. For this purpose. the factories are required to be
equipped with adequate machinery for undertaking dual
manufacture of orthodox or ere type as the market demands.
Further. proper infrastructure needs to be created for
improving the volume of value added teas and specialties such
as green teas. flavoured teas. ready to drink teas. etc. In
order to ensure quality of tea, the process of manufacture
needs to undergo changes to suit the emerging new markets.
To facilitate this tea growers and manufacturers may
participate in the quality improvement programmes such as
capital HACCP and ISO certification.
iii. Market Promotion Scheme - The scheme would continue to
support activities such as market research sUIVey. uninational
campaign for Indian tea in selected markets. brand promotion
support to Indian companies for launching the brands in
inter-national markets. genetic campaign for tea in new
markets and setUng up of an umbrella unit in Indja to meet
the requirements of product and packaging standards in
international markets. There is an all round realisation that
the growth rate of the domestic markets need a step up for
sustainability of the tea industry. Towards this end. there is a
need to make special provisions for launching domestic
schemes under the scheme.

105
 · The market for tea Is changing. Tea Is now facing Increased
competitioJ;1 from soft drinks. In view of this, tea needs to
protect its carefully nurtured market. It also needs to make
forays into soft drink markets with a view to creating
competition rather than merely reacting to it. This can be
done through further value addition and development of new
products

The system of auction will have to be strengthened and

technologically improved by moving to appropriate electronic
formats modifying the existing systems. Accordingly. it is
proposed to extend financial support for creating suitable
database/information collection/dissemination system and
electronic auction system.

iv. Research and Development Scheme - Research and

development scheme may expand the extension services of the
research institutes so that the gap between lab and land Is
narrowed down and all the growers are able to ensure
interface with the research institutes through a network of
adviSOry centres. Further, research institutes may be directed
to focus attention on productivity improvement, cost reduction
in field operations. quality manufacturing process. value
addition. product diversification. etc. Greater awareness about
environmental issues for emphasizing the ecofriendliness of tea
has to be created. Organic tea is emerging as a special
product and demand for it is JJkeJy to increase. Therefore.
there Is an urgent need for research intervention for
developing appropriate package of practices. Health benefits of
tea have been rediscovered recently through scientific
research. Awareness campaigns will make tea Mthe new age
drink" that is beneficial for physical health.

v. Human Resource Development Scheme - The scheme will

aim at achieving overall improvement of the skills of persons
associated with tea plantations at all levels (workers to
managers) through extensive and Intensive training. For this.
the services of (1) Indian Institute of Plantation Management.
(U) Training Centre for Small Growers and Manufacturers
(iU) Comprehensive labour weJfare schemes implemented by
Indian Tea Association (ITA) and UnJted PJanters AssoclaUon
of Southern India (UPASI) aJ¥l (tv) Imparting technical training
by Tea Research Associatio:' and UPASI may be availed of.

106
 The innovative idea of a Mothers Club being tested ill Dooars
region provides a new model for improving workers' health at
the estate level. This model needs to be extended to all other
tea growing regions for which additional funds need to be
eannarked under this scheme. A new approach is required to
tap local talent and internal training in estate management. In
addition. continuing development of the managerial skills of
eXisting managers is also reqUired. The existing status of
small and marginal fanners and identifying their basic needs
for development of these sub sectors and evolving strategies to
make them more active participants in overall development
may be given priority. Organizing training programmes on
modem aspects of tea growing and manufacture. cstablish-
, ment of demonstration plots in the important areas of small
growers concentration and supply of high yielding planting
materials at subsidized rates.

Demonstration plots and trial plantations in important areas

with concentration of small growers in collaboration with
UPASI and CSIR in Himachal Pradesh may be explored
Further training of small tea growers by UPASI, Assam
Agricultural University. North Bcngal University. etc.may be
conducted. In addition. study tours to small tea farmers in
North Eastern States. West Bengal, etc. to learn improved
cultural practices being adopted by them are to be
organized.visit to Cooperative Tca FactOries in NUgiris to study
their devotions. etc.is another area which requires to be
looked into. Quality upgradation scheme which aims at
creating an awareness among the small growers and
manufacturers as to the importance of adopting finer plucking
standards ~lIld improvement of manufacturing process of tea
are to be launched.
Tea Board implemented the programmes like (a) Quality
awareness campaign in different villages. (b) Quality
upgradaUon experiment cum demonstration in different
regions. Ic} publicity including advertisements. film/posters.
notices. etc. (d) Quality awareness seminars/conferences/
farmers' meets for growers as well as bought leaf and
industrial cooperative tea factories in ditTerent talukas during
the current financial year include.

While area for expansion of tea in the estate sector is getting

exhausted. there is distinct scope for bringing additional area

107
 under tea in the small growers sector. The land poUcy of the
Government is also conducive to this development. Growing of
tea especially in the North Eastern region would help in
generation of sufficient income to sustain rural households.
creation of employment oppor-tuniUes for unemployed youth
and landless labourers. conservation of natural resources
through control of shifting cultivation and degradation of
forest areas. and providing a means of harmonious living by
minimizing the social unrest in the rural areas.

72. Development of Small Tea Growers - Measures during the

Xth Plan Period

The Tenth Plan has adopted multi-dimentional measures for the

welfare of the small tea grower~ who are concentrated in some parts
of Assam. Tamil Nadu. Karnataka etc. and constitute a major share
in total tea estates of the country. Some of the measures are (1)
setting up of demonstration plots in each of the North East States
for demonstrating all aspects of tea growing. in a more compre-
hensive manner. (il) formation of central nurseries for supply of right
kind of planting material to the small growers. (iii) arranging training
programmes to all the participating farmers on all aspects of tea
growing in collaboration with THA. Assam Agricultural University and
North Bengal University. (iv)launching of advisory services in each
State. for periodic field visils and advising on practical aspects of
cultivation and providing soil analytical survey. (v) arranging study
tours for the growers to visit the developed areas especially in south
India as well as foreign countries such as Kenya and Indonesia
where conSiderable work has been done for the benefit of small tea
growers.

All activities will be carried out by the Tea Board through Its
regional offices and In collaboration with reSI)('ctive State
Governments.

73. Progress in Recent Techniques in Cultivation of Tea

In recent times. micro-propagation. hybrid secd production and

seedlings. hi-density planting. intcgrated nutrient management. use
of bio-fertilizers, mien> irrigation. ferligation. protected cultivation.
organic farming, il1tcgrated pest management and use of bio-
pestiCides, mobeeular diagnosttcs. pesticides residues, etc. are some
of the techniques in tea culU\.lUon.

108
Propagation of tea includes release of high yielding clones, bi-clonal
seed stock and grafted plants. These planting materials have shown
extremely satisfactory results. However, existing materials and
techniques need to be Improved. Standardisation of package for
cultivation of organiC tea is yet to be made. High density planting is
sufficient for obtaining higher yield from an unit area. Any further
increase in the density would only lead to uneconomic production in
the long run.

With introduction of str1ngent Minimum Residual Limits (MRLs) ,

Integrated post harvest management, techniques required to be
further researched. More research and development efforts are called
for in the areas of micro-nutrient management.

74. :Production Target for Xth Plan

Based on the projected domestic demand, as per studies conducted

by Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta and World Export
demand as estimated by Food and Agriculture Organisation and
removal of quantity restrictions (QRs) under the Agreement of
Agriculture of wro, the estimated production and export targets
during the Xth Plan period are shown below :

Targets 2002-03 2003-04 2004-0& 2005-06 2008-07

1. Domestic Consumption- 693 714 735 757 780

2. Export ++ 234 241 248 256 264
Total production 927 955 983 1013 1044
• Based on DMC .tudy
++ According to FAa. export a.aUabUltle. are projected to reach 1800 mllllon
2005, it .. targeted to achieve a share of 18% of the total l(Iobal exports
k. in

Source: Xth Five Year Plan· Report of Sub'group on Plantation Crops· II . Tea. Coffee and
Rubber . Ministry oj Commerce

75. FAO Projections for Black Tea - 2005

FAO made future projections taking into account the committed

reduction in tariff rates for tea imports. This reduction was on
account of trade liberalization after 1994. The FAO projections
indicate that world black tea imports would increase by a further
2.9 per cent, from 1355 m.kg to 1394 m.kg by 2005 because of the
impact of tariff reductions resulting from the URA.

109
Black Tea eouat..,. Without tariff With tariff
reduction reduction
m.kg % share lD'.kg % share
Production India 1015 36.11 1018 35.96
Sri Lanka 285 10.14 287 10.12
Kenya 278 9.80 280 9.94
China 220 7.83 224 7.92
- -1-------
Indonesia 210 7.47 213 7.51
- - r-- -
Turkey 215 7.65 j·15 7.60
Exports India 245.8 17.12 249.8 172.20
---
Sri l..mka 254.5 18.22 262.6 18.09
Kenya 254.0 17.69 256.8 17.68
China 192.0 13.37 201.2 13.85
Indonesia 200.0 13.93 214.0 7.51
Source; FAO. (1995). Impact oj the URA 011 tIll' World Tea Economy : Projections 10 2005.
Commltl.·c 011 COlllmrxlil!} Problem.~. ICG Ilf Tea. Home

76. Approach to Xth Five Year Plan

According to the "Approach to Tenth Five Year Plan- targets should

no longer be production oriented. bllt shall aim at improving
productivity. value addition and marketability. It further states that
one must concentrate on increasing the prod uctivity of eXisting
gardens rather than establishing new plantations with huge
investments. There should be continued efforts towards further
increasing the profitability of tea gardens through replanting/
rejuvenation and mechanization of operations.

The main thrust would be on quality so as to make our teas

competitive in the light of opening up of the economy under the
wro agreement on agriculture. Thrust is to he given on Improving
marketing capabilities as well as substantially improving packaJ.!ing
and value addition. Conversion to organic methods of tea growing to
be encouraged.

Information teehnology needs to be given due consideratiwl for

making available ready information to the tea industry and for
promotion of our prodllce in other markets.

There must be continued efforts towards further increasing the

profitability of tea gardens through replanting/rejuvenation and
mechanjzaUon of operaUons.

110
77. Strategies for the Tenth PIau Period

The strategies of the Tenth Five Year Plan are to : (1) enhance
production through vertical development measures such as
replantation. rejuvenation. pruning. infill1ng of vacancies With better
varieties. etc. (l1)improve the productivity of small tea gardens. (111)
emphasize special attention on irrigation and drainage (iii)
manufacture additional crop; tea processing facilities are to be
augmented by construction of new tea factories (iv) modernize the
existing tea factories for ensuring production of clean teas Without
any trace of foreign material In end products. (v) encourage product
diversification and creation of facilities for dual manufacture of tea
(orthodox and CTC). (v) encourage value addition and production of
instant. ready-to-drink tea. decaffeinated tea and specialty teas. (vi)
ensute adherence to the prescribed international and domestic SPS
(Sanitary and Phyto-sanitary) standards for tea. (vii) make higher
investment on R&D and transfer of technology. (viii) reach
technological advances to smaller estates where potential for
improvement is the best, (Ix) reduce packaging costs and use
alternative and inexpensive packaging materials, (x) explore the
possibility of setting up of modern packaging and blending units
within India with foreign collaboration. (xi) support for promotion of
value added teas in overseas market by exporters. importers to take
advantage of IT tools for promotion vigorously. (xii) encourage organic
tea cultivation and production of green teas, (xiii) initiate special
promotional programmes in thrust countries, (xiv) need to continue
an intensive generic promotion campaign Within the country so as to
increase per capita consumption and to arrest declining trend in
domestic demand. A strong and vibrant internal market will create
the necessary synergy's for expanding the export market, (xv) reduce
the cost of production by improving productivity and minimizing
wasteful expenditure to increase profits from the existing plantation
The competitive advantage of tea industry depends primarily on
quality of manpower. Therefore, HRD inputs are critical to future
development of the tea Industry.

78. On the Production Front

On the production front, the strategies required to be adopted are (a)

Implementation of HACCP and ISO standard, (b) launching of quality
assurance scheme by Tea Board, (c) undertaking a planned
programme to encourage shift in production from ere to orthodox,
(d) designing and launching of a separate scheme, (e) focusing on
IncreaSing yield of area under tea in order to contribute a higher

III
percentage to world production and also increase exportable surplus,
(0 reducing cost of production by educating workers at garden levels
through workshops while maintaining targets for replanting,
rejuvenation planting. etc .. (g) narrowing down in number of grades
produced which lead to confUSion in importers' mind and (h)
exploring the possibtlity of providing zero interest/low interest loans
for purchase of roll1ng machines for orthodox, especially in the
context of the crisis in South India.

79. On the Product Front

On the product front. continuous emphasis on value added forms of
tea (tea bags followed by packet tea and instant tea) in order to
maximize returns and foreign exchange earnings, may be made. For
this, there is a need to undertake specific activities to promote these
forms of tea. These include (1) exemption of import duty on tea
bagging machinery and filter papers, (ti) arranging of workshops to
help promote packaging standards in association with Indian
Institute of Plantation Management (IIPM), (iii) on the bulk tea
exports. focus on orthodox and Darjeeling as thrust areas while
maintaining traditional markets. (Iv) improving packaging standards
to meet world norms. (v) encouraging export of green tea with focus
on specific markets like Morocco. Marketing an Indian green tea that
Is unique and not necessarily a replica of Chinese green tea, and (v)
developing specific value added products I.e. flavoured tea and teas
with herbal infusion while maintaining the brand equity of Indian
tea.

80. On the Marketing Front

On the marketing front one must identify markets based on global

predictions on demand and ability to pay premium demand by
different types of Indian teas and develop specific strategies for
focused markets and allocate funds in these markets coinciding with
penetration strategies.

There Is need to build on value perceptions around Indian tea with

DaIjeeling as flagship and launch promotional campaign in major
markets and provide legislative protection for teas of Indian origin
alongwith Indian geographical indications such as Dmjeeling. Assam
and Nilgtris. Further attempts may be made to launch an Indian tea
logo as a mark of quaUty and speciality tea register together with
extensive promotion of spec: 'llity teas by way of using using website
as a marketing tool to hasten the buying process. Emphasis may be

112
shiftted from product to quaUty based on appearance. cuppage,
ecology, sensitivity to bio chemicals. health benefits and lifestyle.
There is a need to project India as a stable. reliable producer and
supplier which will honour commitments. .

81. On the Infrastructure FroDt

Infrastructure is the key factor in sustaining development for any

sector and tea is not an exception to this. Keeping this in view
there is a need to (I) develop infrastructure for value addition, (il)
provide duty free facility to exporters. (iii) support the purchase of
foreign brands/distribution arrangements/warehouses in foreign
markets by Indian companies. Further traditional markets for
primcp1ly bulk tea must be retained. A drive to locate large growing
segment of consumer markets across the globe has to be further
launched and strengthened. We must promote our own global
brands and secure a long term markets for Indian tea in origin.

82. OD GovemmeDt FrODt

Government may further consider duty free imports of capital

equipments/machlnery for packaging of tea bags. instant tea. ready
to drink tea and canned tea machinery and duty free imports of
filter papers for tea bags and remove infrastructure bottle necks and
improve infrastructure facilities (ports. customs. banking. insurance.
etc.). Provision of incentives for value added teas. Launching
promotional campaigns for Indian teas in thrust markets. conducting
market service to assist Indian exporters in their marketing efforts
and deputation of delegations to prospective countries to enhance
contract for exports as well as to study strategies followed by
competing producer countries are some of the other areas to be
strengthened.
In order to increase India's export potential. the option of importing
tea for re-export will have to be kept open. as world blends will
require teas from other growing areas. A separate focus on tea bags
is essential. One of the highest value added emerging market.s is
instant tea and ready to drink beverages. With a view to making
India to a globally competitive position in value added teas. there is
need for setting up of the blending. packaging and processing
facilities at internationally competitive levels. Globally. competitive
canning lines, processing equipment and branded/private level option
needs to be organized. This is a highly technical field and an early
edge would open up sophisticated markets in future.

113
83. Investment Activities during Xth Plan Period 2002-07

i. Proposed Development Measures - The development

measures contemplated for the X Plan period in terms of
physical area and the anticipated contributions are presented
below:

Sr. Activity Area to be Contribution

No. developed (ha) (m.kg.)
I Extension/new planting 4.500 4
2 Replanting 20.000 14
3 ReJuvenation/pnlnlng 50.000 25
4 Irrigation 50.000 10
5 Improvement of drainage 100.000 10
6 Producllvlty Improvement 120.000 12
Total : 344,500 75

More thrust would be on renovation of field assets and

improving productivity from the existing areas rather than
expansion. It is proposed to Integrate the above activities
under one scheme viz: Plantation development Scheme during
the X Plan period. The total requirement of funds for the Five
Year period adds up to Rs.939 crores. The sources of fund
would be as under :

(Ra. in crore)
Sr. Sources of Fund Amount
No.
I Tea Board
Loan 29.00
Subsidy 130.00
2 33 AB a/c. Under Tea Development 405.00
Account Scheme
3 Tea Industry's own resources 81.00
4 Bank/Institutional loan 294.00
Total : 939.00

ii. Quality Upgradation and Product DiversifICation - One of

the main reasons attributed to the price slump in South India
during 2000. was th~ poor quality Imagl-. It is, therefore,
proposed to pay more attention towards quality improvement
of the basic product and on value addition. All the process

114
 related activities and quaUty upgradation and product
diversification programmes would be covered under a new
scheme viz. Quality Upgradation and Product Diversification
Scheme. The estimated requirement of funds adds up to
Rs.811 crores with the following sources of funds :

(Re. In crore)

Sr. Sources of Fund Amount

No.
1 Tea Board
Loan 24.00
Subsidy 100.00

,2 33 AB a/c. Under Tea Development

Account Scheme
250.00

3 Tea Industry's own resources 109.00

4 Bank/Institutional loan 328.00
Total : 811.00

iii. Research and .Development - Research areas to be covered

during the Plan pcriod are (i) integrated nutrient management.
(Ii) forecasting model for pest incidence. (iii) energy
conservation, (iv) product diversification and "alue addition.
(iv) tea and human health. (v) transfer of technology.
(vi) establishment of chain of quality laboratories in the
important tea growing regions, (vi) irrigation and drainage,
(vii) biochemical analysis and quality improvement, (viii) soil
management and organic cultivation of tea, (ix) packaging,
eco-preservation and other related areas, (x) biotechnological
aspects and (xi) pesticide residues, metals, myco-toxic and
connected research work.
Development areas include (a) setting up of a training centre
and advisory centres for the benefit of small tea growers in
NE region. (b) opening of new Development offices of Tea
Board for closer interface with the sma)) growers in the non-
traditional areas. (c) strengthening the existing field offices of
the Board, (d) setting up of nurseries for supply of planting
matertals to the small growers. (c) setting up of demonstration
plots, (0 organizing study tours. workshops. seminars etc. and
fO institution of productivity and quality awards
The estimated requirement of funds for the above activities
including service charges for implemcnting the schemes would

115
 be In the region of Rs. 225 crores with the following source of
funds:

Tea Board : grant in aid Rs. 125 crores

Tea IndustIy : contribution Rs. 100 crores
Total : Ra. 225 crores

iu. Market Deuelopment - As a result of changes in the market

scenario. the marketing orientation demands a new approach.
Towards that end. it is necessary to make a specific provision
for launching generic promotion campaign in the domestic
market in joint collaboration with the tea industry. Besides.
the regular promotion measures such as market research
survey. uni-national campaign. brand promotion support.
participation in fairs and tea festivals. exchange trade
delegations etc. would be continued. The estimated funds
requirement for the above activities is in the region of Rs.300
crores to be equally shared by the Tea Board and the
Industry on 50:50 basis.
Financial assistance to be extended under this Scheme would
be in the form of subsidies for various market development
and export promotional activities.

84. Summary of the Tenth Plan outlay

It Is proposed to cover the above noted activities under the following
schemes:
Sr. Sources of Fund Amount
No.
I Tea Board
Loan 53.00
SubsIdy 535.00
2 33 AB a/c. under tea development 655.00
Account scheme
3 Tea Industry's own resources 440.00
4 Bank/Institutional loan 622.00
Total : 2305.00

The estimated outlay and the sources of fund for each of the scheme
Is summarized in the table below :

116
Sl. Nam. of the Eetlma- Tea Board 33 AB Indu- Bank I
No. achem. ted fund Depo.lts try'. wtltu-
requlre- Loan Sub- resou- Uoll8l
ment aid,. rce. flnance
1 Plantation develop- 939 29 130 405 81 294
ment scheme
2 Qual1ty upgradation 811 24 100 250 109 328
and product diversi-
fication scheme
3 Market promotion 300 - 150 - 150 -
scheme
4 Research and
development
225 - 125 - 100 -
5 HRD 30 - 30 - -
Total: 2305 53 535 655 440 622
Source: X .Flue Year Plan. Report on Sub-Group on Plantation Crops II - Ministry oj
Corrunerce.

117
Part Nine : Pri~e Stabilization Fund, Price Stabi-
lization Fund Account, Guidelines

85. Background
Deeply concerned with the problems being faced by the growers of
coffee. tea. rubber and tobacco due to continued low prtces of these
commodities (both domestic/export). for quite some time. Government
of India (GOI) has taken a series of measures to ameliorate the
hardshIps being faced by the growers of these crops. The Price
Stabilization Fund Scheme (PSFS) is yet another step in the direction
by GOI to safeguard the interests of the growers.

86. Objective

The PSFS aims at providing financial relief to the growers when

prices of these commodities fall below specIfied levels. without
resorting to the practice of procurement operations by the
Government agencies.

87. Duration of the Scheme

The Scheme will be operational for a period of ten years. subject to
a review after five years.

88. Mode of Intervention

Under the scheme. a fund called the Price Stabilization Fund will be
established with contribution from the GOI and entry fce @Rs 500
from each grower desirous of participating in the Schenw. The
corpus of the fund shall remain undistributed and interest earnings
alone will be utilized for operationalising the PSFS.

89. Who Can Participate in the Scheme?

Initially. the Scheme will be open to growers of tea. coffee. rubber
and tobacco having operational holdings of 4 hectare or less.
Subsequently coverage of other growers could be conSidered.

90. How to Become a Member?

Growers of aforementioned commodities willing to participate shall
apply to the respective commodity Board in the prescribed form
Within the date stipulated thereof. The Commodity Boards will select

119
the members on first come first serve basis with preference being
given to the members With the least holding size. The Commodity
Boards will thereafter enroll the eligible growers as member who will
be required to deposit an amount of Rs 500 with the Commodity
Board.

91. Opening and Maintenance of Bank Account

The member would be provided With an application form to enable

him/her to open the 'PSF account with the deSignated bank branch.
TIle Commodity Board will also inform the concerned bank branch
for opening the account in the name of the member. The account
will be maintained as Savings Bank Account and would be entitled
for payment of interest at rates applicable to Savings Bank Accounts.
No service charges of any kInd would be levied. Members have to
deposit theIr annual contributions to the account by 31 March every
year. Govt. of India contributions to the account would be made not
later than 31 May every year. At the end of the duration of the
Scheme, the entire balance in the account would be payable to the
member.

92. Modus Operandi for Calculation of Contributions from Govt.

of India and Members

Govt. of India will announce a price band for each commodity based
on the seven year moving average of International prices as the mid
point with the lower bound and upper bound as 20 per cent (-) and
20 per cent (+), respectively.

When the average prices fall below the lower bound of the band in a
particular year, Govt .. of India will contribute upto Rs.IOOO to the
account of the member. In that year the member will not be
required to contribute any amount to his/her account.

In those years when the average price pierces the upper bound of
the band, the member will have to contribute Rs.lOOO to his/her
account while the Govt. .of India will not contribute any amount

In the normal years when the price remains within the price band,
the member will be required to deposit Rs.500 each year to his/her
account within a specified .. date. The Govt..or India will also
contribute upto Rs.500 to the member's account during the normal
year.

120
During years when the average market price falls below the lower
bound of the price band. the member would be allowed to draw
Rs. 1000 from the account.
At the end of the ten year period. the balance outstanding can be
Withdrawn by the grower including the Govt .. of India's contribution
and the interest earnings. The initial contribution of Rs. 500 as an
entry fee however. Will not be refunded.
The Scheme will be implemented through a Trust Fund to be set up
jointly by Ministry of Commerce and NABARD and the operations
will be monitored by a High Powered Committee set up by the
Ministry of Commerce.

93. Defaulten
In case a member defaults in making his contribution Within the
stipulated date. he will be deemed as a defaulter. The PSF account
maintained with the bank would be closed and no further deposits
either from the Govt. of India or the member. would be' credited to
the account.

94. New Membership

New growers willing to subscribe to the Scheme during the period of
operation of the Scheme may be admitted In place of dropouts:
however. the benefits of the Scheme wlll be restricted to the
remaining period of the Scheme.

mustratlon
The operation of the Scheme is illustrated below. Let us presume
that the 7 years moving average price of the commodity is Rs. 43/.
The lower bound of the band would be Rs. 34.40 and the upper
bound of the band would be Rs. 51.60. If the prevailing price of the
commodity is Rs. 31/- per kg the position will be as under.

Price of Commodity CODtrlbutiOD to the ale Withdrawal from ale

Prtce say Rs. 1000 by GOI. Rs.l000 can be drawn
Rs. 31 per kg No contrtbution by by member
[below lower bound) member
Rs. 45 per kg Rs. 500 by GOI No drawa1s
[WIthin thc prke band) Rs. 500 by member
Rs. 52 per kg Rs. 1000 by member No drawals
[above upper bound No contrtbutlon by Govt ..

121
95. Price StabUizatloD Fund Account

Guidelines for Opening and Maintenance of Account by

Banks
,,/ The account will be opened by designated bank branches
based on a Certificate of Eligibility issued by the concerned
Commodity Board.

,,/ The banks would not insist on introduction of the account

holder and would rely on the Certificate issued by the
Commodity Board.

,,/ The accounts would be opened with the deposit of Rs. 100/-
which will be the minimum balance in respect of these
accounts. The accounts would be deSignated as PSF
Accounts.

,,/ The account would be maintained as Savings Bank Account

and would be entitled for payment of interest at the rates
applicable for S8 Account..

,,/ No scrvice charges of any kind would be leviable.

,,/ In accordance with the terms and conditions of the scheme,

deposits wil1 be made by the account holders or by the
Government of India through the concerned Commodity Board
which would be credited to the account.
1/ Orawals would be allowed from the account only on receipt. of
specific advice from the concerned Commodity Board in any
particular year. The adVice would indicate the extent of
drawal that could be allowed to the member.

,,/ Members have to deposit their annual contributions to the

account by a prescribed due date which is presently set as
31 March.

,/ The Government contributions would be made not later than

31 May every year.
,/ When the grower fails to contribute his 3hare to the a('('Ount
by the due date. he will be deemed to be a defaultcr.
,,/ Onre thc account iSo-in default l.e. if the contribution due
from th(.~ member is hut made by t.he prescribed due datc. i.e.
by 31 March. the account would be closed.

122
.t No further deposits of the grower members should be
accepted for credit to a defaulter's account.
.t No Government contributions could be credited to the
defaulter's account.

,/ At the request of the grower member, the balance in the

defaulters account could be repaid to the extent of the
member's contributions with interest thereon.
,/ No part of Government's contributions and interest thereon
should be paid to the defaulter grower members.
,/ After payment of the dues to the defaulter, the balance
, represen-ttng Governments contributions and interest thereof
in such accounts should be rcmitted back to the Price
Stabilization Fund Trust through the concerned Commodity
Board .
.t Banks have to provide an annual return to the concerned
Com-modit), Boaed indicating the numbt'r of accounts
maintained, the balancc therein and the list of accounts to
which Government contributions were credited during the
year and also a list of accounts which have turned into
default with details of accounts closed on account of default.
Further, details of payments made to the defaulting member
as well as amount remitted to the Government from the
defaulting account. on its closure should also be sent to the
Commodity Board every year.
,/ At the end of 10 years. the entire balance in the account is
payable to the grower members.
,/ In case of any douht, daritkaton/s could be obtained from
the Price Stabilisation Fund Trust Offi Cf' , R No. 133, ewing
Nirman Bhawan, Maulana Azad Road, New Delhi 110 011.

123
 Part Ten : Madhukar Committee - Report of the
Working Groups on Problems of the
Industry
98. Background

A meeting on the problems of Tea Industry was convened at RBI.

Mumbai Shri Vepa Kamesan. the then Deputy Governor. RBI as
Chairman. The meeting was attended by L V Saptarishi. Add!.
Secretary. Ministry of Commerce. Chief Executives of various Banks.
Chairman. Tea Board and representatives of Tea AsSOCiations. Duting
the above meeting. a small Working Group was constituted to study
the prpblems of tea industIy in-depth and come out With acceptable
solution. The Working Group was chatred by Shri Madhukar.
Chairman and Managing Director. United Bank of India. and
members were Chairman. Tea Board. representatives of Ministry of
Commerce and Industry. Govt. .of India. Representatives from
NABARD. Kolkata. State Bank of India. Tea ASSOCiations of North
India and South India. It was further decided that Working Group
would submit the report to the RBI before 25 July 2002.
In the light of the above deCision. a meeting of the Working Group
was convened at United Bank of India. HQ. Kolkata on 22 and 23
July 2003 where 05 representatives from United Bank of India. 03
from State Bank of India. 02 from Tea Board. Kolkata. 02 from India
Tea Association. 01 from NABARD RD. Kolkata. 01 from United
Planters Association. South India. 01 from Ministry of Commerce.
and 01 from Nilgiri Boughtleaf Tea Mfg. Association. Before
c()nvenin~ this meeting. a questionnaire was Circulated among the
members of the Group and the data elicited by the questionnaire is
given below.
97. Suggested Solutions based on the feed backs
Based on t.he suggestions received from the various Members of the
group and the replies to the aforesaid questionnaire. the current
problems of tea industry vis-a-vis the suggested solutions were
discussed at length in the above meeting of the Working Group.
During the discussions, it was decided that for revival of the tea
industry. all the agencies involved in the process viz. the Banks.
NABARD, Tea Board, Govt. of India. Tea Associations and the
borrowers have their respective roles to play. The deliberations were
accordingly structured on the above basis and the decisions taken
thereof are appended below:

125
98. For Bauks
i. The major problems currently being faced by the tea IndusUy
are due to the high cost of production. and sharp decline in
sale price as a result of which many tea borrowers are
findiIH;s it difficult to maintain their cash budgets prepared by
th('lIl at the heginning of the season. Since this projected cash
hl:d~\! .<; the basts of providin~ working capital limit to the
t.' . bOlTuwns. operations in their accounts become difficult
lJt:~ :m: ,~ of low cash inflow resulting in irregularity in the
accounts. Normally. the borrowers are required to liquidate
their ollls1 Il'riinf,!f; in their tea hypothf'cation acc:ount by the
enc! of the ~';'. iISOII. BlIt failure on the part of the borrowers to
liquidate tILt hypoli:u'ai:o(l dues by the end of the season,
results in further diflkully for the borrowers as they are not
in a posiiioll to avail fl t::jh working capital limit for the next
season. In view of this. it. W.1S J'('l'{)mmendeu that

The seasonal deficit of te« burrowal accounts [classified

as standard assets/ may be converted to a term loan
repayable within a period :~(.t ·~);cecding 5 years subject
to the conditions that at lea~r. 50% oJ the peak hypothe-
cation outstanding has been li'}ili(i.~~t.,·d by the borrowers:
if. In many tea a(~c()unts, it has Let'll . , d that. though the
borrower is nol in a position to liqt!II])' :", ~(~()sonab)e dues
by the end of the s(,<Ison. it is b'll'kl.'fi ;'. '.:I.luate stock of
tea which could not be suld due to I.: l h. 1,1 1; (:ll1und in the
markd. In such cas(~s. lhere is no n','I~d ()f , .. :t ~\'elling the
dues to a term loan and illstead. an (':\!l~llsiO;1 ,:I" \'\'nayment
ppriod to IiqlliciLlte the ollblandin~ seaSUll.11 d' h. ill hypothe-
cation <"H.'('ount to a maximum pl'riod of t) I,' 'tl~~'; may be
allowed wit.hout affecting its drawing In the t(' " .. ')()thc(:Jlion
account of the ('urr{'nl s('ason. j\<'corcilngly. 1111'" W0r;:ing
Group reCOlIllll('IHkd tlmt;

Extension of period to liquidate the working capital dttcs

of (ast season may b~ allowed to a maximum of six
months in those cases where the entire outstanding is
backed by !J :.tock of tea or the prompt receivables
without a.flc;, ·ti,'g tIle drawings and the working capit«l
limit of current year. provided atleast 60% of the tea
hypothecation outstunrJing 1tCl.S been included and in this
case there is no ne,;'d :)f conversion of working capital
limit to term loan as stated uhove.

126
iii. In order to enable the borrowers to operate the tea garden
during the current season after aforesaid conversion/
restructuring of the account. a iresh working capital may be_
extended and it was recommended that
Release of needbased working capital finance for current
season based on realistic position, keeping in view the
production track record, accepted price levels. market
demand etc. may be allowed in accounts classified as
standard assets.
iv. Many tea borrowers are enjoying term loan facilities from
banks. which were taken earlier to meet various project costs
undertaken for development and expansion of tea garden/
, processing units and they are not in a position to service their
installments of such loans as per the earlier terms stipulated
at the time of sanctioning such loans. In view of genuine
problems of tea industry. it is recommen-ded that
Reschedulement of existing term loans repayment
schedule on the basis of borrowers' future position and
repayment capacity, may be allowed.
v. As the banks are required to undertake the aforesaid
converslon/restructuring/reschedulement in many tea
accounts. such accounts should not be treated as NPA
because the borrower could not service in time on
installments or liqUidate tea hypothecation dues and the
account w~s otherwise treated as standard asset. In the light
of the above discussions. it Is recommended that

J\fter the conversion/restructuring and rescheduling in tea

accounts, the term loan as well as working capital limit
shall be treated as current dues, and need not be
classified as NPA provided that at the time of conversiOn/
restructuring, rescheduling, the account was classified as
standard assets as per the prudential norms issued by
RBI from time to time. The asset classlfaed thereafter
would be governed by revised terms and conditions
adopted adopted at the time of restructuring of the
account.
vi. The tea advances have since been categortzed as agricultural
advance as per the latest gUidelines of RBI. The prudential
nonns In respect of agrtculture advances. Inter-alia. treat that

127
 in respect of advances granted for agriculture purpose,
interest and! or installment of principle remains unpaid for
two harvest season but for a pertod not exceeding two and
half years. such an advance will be treated as NPA. The crop
cycle for tea plantation is one year and hence in terms of the
above gUidelines issued by the RBI. the tea accounts are not
getting full ~enefits because of the existing ceiling period not
exceeding two and half years, whereas for tea plantations crop
cycles are equivalent to two years. In view of the above and
considering the current crisis through which the tea Industry
currently passing. it is recommended that

In respect of tea advances where interest and/or

installment of principle remains unpaid for two harvest
seasons but for a period not exceeding two years, such
an advance should be treated as NPA.

vU. In case of many tea accounts. the borrowers are in current

capital expenditure towards development of tea gardens.
expansion of tea processing units. without arranging the
corresponding sources of long term finance. particularly. when
the tea industry was doing well. Tea borrowers did not face
much problems at that time. as they could finance such
projects either out of cash generation or by utilizing a portion
of their working capital advance. Assets were created out of
such capital expenditure and such assets are also changed to
the lending banks. However. due to the current problem of
the tea industry, such borrowers are now finding it difficult to
meet their working capital requirements as a portion of it is
tied up with capital cost of the project. In such cases the
banks. may allow working capital term loan to meet such
mismatch in the asset liability position of the borrowers.
provided that working capital facilities extended to such
borrowers is not utilised for interunit Investment to a
company under the same group or for any other purpose
outside the tea business of the unit and debt equity ratio in
such cases is not worse than 3: 1 This facility may be given to
genuine and good borrowers having saUsfactory track records.
for capital expenditure incurred during the last 3 years and
not supported by any long terms source. The Working Group
accordingly recommended that
Fresh working capital term loan in an account classified
as standard asse&. may be allowed where due to capital

128
 expenditure incurred by the borrower during the last
three years for development lex tension of tea estates
processing units etc. without arranging corresponding
long term funds reSUlting in asset liability mismatch,
aJ'fecting the net working capital position of the
borrowers. This facility would be granted to genuine,
good borrowers with satisfactory track records having a
minimum debt equity ratio of 3:1 and who have not
diverted funds by way of investment in other companies.
transferring fund to the subsidiaries group company or
created assets other than for productive purposes.

viii. There Is a continuous demand from the Industry that the rate
of interest being charged by the lending banks Is required to
, be reduced at this hour of crisis, for enabling them to become
more competitive. In this respect it was mentioned that all the
individual banks have their own credit rating system which is
linked with the prices i.e. credit of interest and does not
justify to allow a rate of interest not commensurate with its
credit rating. However, considering the difficult time through
which industry passing. it is recommended

Bank may allow a rate of interest upto two stages better

than the rates as applicable to such borrowers according
to its credit rating by the individual banks subject to the
condition that qfl:er such reduction, such rate of interest
should not be below prime lending rate IPLRI

99. For NABARD

Under refinancing scheme. NABARD is presently charging 10% p.a.

interest for various projects under tea finance. Considering the
current crisis it is recommended that

Under the refinancing schemes related to tea industry NABARD

may charge an interest rate of 0.5% below the rate applicable
to a similar project to other industry.

100. For Tea Board

The Tea Board is at present providing 200/0 capital subsidy in respect

of certain capital cost projects. including development of tea
plantations. it was fill that Tea Board may allow similar subsidy In
respect of those capital expenditure which a tea borrower has

129
incurred during the last 3 years arranging the corresponding long
term funds and which has created productive assets towards such
borrowers enhancing its production capacity and if such subsidy is
allowed by the Tea Board, there will be mrresponding reduction in
the long term loan re'luiremcnts from banks. It is recommended that
Tea Board may provide 20% capital subsidy in respect of those
capital expenditure incurred during the last three years in
creating assets for enhancing the pJ'oduction capacity of the
borrowers, where such borrowers could not arrange for the food
tie-up of such capital costs provided the borrower is having
satisfactory track record. Such release of su.bsidy should have
linkages with the term loan from the ban.k for the same
purpose, if auailed, the subsidy should be released to the
lending of such. borrower.
101. For Central and State Governments
The representatives of Ministry of Commerce, Govt .. of India
mentioned that the Central Govt. is llkely to set up a Price
Stabilization Fund for plantation including tea industry, and its
modalities of operation is now laking final shape. All members of the
Group appreCiated the efforts tak('n by the Government and
requested for expanding the creation of the Fund because the benefit
should accrue to the industry as soon as possible. It was further
discussed that the respective State Govts. may avail the facility
under Rural Infrast.ructure Development Fund being provided by
NABARD for the purpose of development of infrast.ructure at the tea
estates such as housing, irrigation.etc. which will ease t.he financial
burden of the borrower who are at present supporting these
expenses.
The Stat.e Govt .. may also consider re-imhursement (by aVaillng RIDFJ
of the capital expenses Incurred by tea borrowers during the last
three years for meeting these reqUirements of infrastructure of tea
estates. The Working Group therefore recommends.
tal The formation of Price Stabilization Fund for plantation
including tea industry is to be expedited.
fbI The State Gout. may avail the RIDF Fund from NABARD to
meet the expenses towards development of irifrastructure at
tea estates and reimbursement of earlier expenditure
incurred by the tea borrowers during last three years for
the purpose of building up required irifrastructure at tea
estates.

130
 102. For Tea Associations
At present the Associations do not communicate with the banks as a
result of which their views on the latest development in the indusUy
is not forthcoming. Many policy decisions in respect of efficacy of
auction system, review of various benchmark parameters like average
yield. coverage of tea cultivable land, replantation, conversion ratio of
green leaves, wastages. etc are not being regularly communicated by
the Associations. It is expected that there should be continuous
interface between the associations and the banks. Moreover, the
ASSOCiation shall bear the moral responsibility for fostering for
improved performance among its members and assist them towards
this objective in every possible way.

The A~sociat1on has a greater role for better marketing efforts to

improve the domestic demand for tea as well as developing new
export markets for better price and for more export orders.
Currently the tea market is under threat from contemporary
beverages and the Association is required to immediately initiate
image boosting exercises for tea.

In the light of the above discussions it Is recommended that :

The Tea Associations should have regular inter:face with the

tea lending Banks to appraise the bankers about the general
health of the industry. mqjor policy decisions. the status of the
Industry and the needs of the industry. They will foster for the
improved per:formance among its membership and assist the
members towards this object in every possible way.

The Tea Associations will have to take a more active role for
development for both domestic and global tea markets through
publicity in different media and thwart the challenge posed by
contemporary beverages. It should carry out continuous efforts
to improve the tea price in the domestic as well as interna-
tional market.

103. For Small Tea Growers and Bought Leaf Factories

The small tea growers and bought leaf factOries are facing certain
specific "Problems due to price differentiation, non-realisation of
receivable in time, etc. As more in-depth study Is required for these
problems. separate working groups may be formed under the
chairmanship of the convener bank of SLBCs of the respective States

131
with members from SBI. Tea Board and the Industry to study the
problem in-depth and come out with their recommendations within a
month. In the light of these discussions it is recommended that :

Separate Working Groups under the chairmanship of the

Converter Bank of the SLBC of respective States along with the
member from lead bank of the district, SBI, Tea Board and the
Industry may be formed for an in-depth study of the problems
of small tea growers and bought leoJ factories and the report
of the Group[sJ may be submitted within a month.

104. For the Tea Borrowers

The Group's recommendations in this respect are:

Every tea borrower should report its unaudited results at least

each quarter.

The tea borrower should have better financial discipline. There

should be no diversion of fund to any sister unit or outside the
business without proper tie up of funds and consultation with
its lending banker(sJ prior to taking up any such commitments.
There should be atleast 1 % replantation every year in each tea
estate.

..

132
 Part Eleven : Package of Relief Measures for Tea
Industry
105. Introduction

The tea industry has been experiencing difficulties in their operations

since 1998 on account of drastic fall in the prices of tea both in the
domestic and international markets. The problems were triggered by
a glut in production during 1998 and the depressed conditions
continued unabated till the end of 2003. The prices are now looking
up and the Industry is seeing the trend as a tum around and they
expect market conditions to remain favourable In the coming years.
During 2002, the RBI had announced certain relief measures
follOWing studies conducted by an Expert Committee. While the
finanCial assistance extended under the scheme benefited the
Indust.ry to some extent. the Tea AssOCiations had represented to the
government for a fresh look at the package relief measure since
market conditions continued to be unfavourable even during 2003.

FollOwing a request received from the Chairman, Tea Board, IBA had
arranged a meeting between senior bankers and representatives of
Tea Board/Tea Association of Kolkata on January 12, 2004. At the
meeting the Chairman, Tea Board and representatives of major Tea
Associations presented difficulties faced by them both in the
domestic and the export market. the current state of tea industry,
the challenges and opportunities in the global market, efforts being
made by the tea industry to overcome their weaknesses, and their
expectations of relief measures from the banking industIy. Based on
the discussions in the meeting. this package of relief measures was
prepared and was approved by the Managing Committee of the
Association in its meeting held on 31 October 2004.

106. The Statu8 of Tea Industry In India

India is the largest producer of tea in the world and the country has
retained its leadership in production over the last 150 years. India is
also the largest consumer of tea in the world. Tea has been an
important foreign exchange earner contributing to about Rs. 2000
crore to the export basket even though in terms of share in the
world market, we lag behind Sri Lanka, Kenya and China. The
fragmentation of USSR, strained relationship with Pakistan and the
problems in Iraq had adversely affected Indian tea exports in the last
decade. The relatively higher cost of production and poorer quality of

133
our output has affected the competitiveness of our tea industry.
High cost of labour coupled with low productivity has been the
primary reason for the high cost of production. Productivity and
quality of tea produced in the country is also affected due to
existence of ageing plantations in the country. A significant portion
of our tea plantations is aged beyond economic life of tea bushes.
The tea gardens of Sri Lanka and Kenya are of relatively younger
origins. It is therefore felt that the Indian tea industry needs to take
drastic measures to improve productivity and also take up
replantation/rejuvenation on a war footing. to improve competitive-
ness and long term viability.

The necessary conditions continuing since 1998 had resulted in

many of the tea plantations incurring losses in the recent years.
The strained cash flows has also affected much needed
developmental activity in the plantations.

107. Outlook for the Future

There has been a pick up in the demand for tea and consequentry
prices since December 2003. The tea industry representatives view
the developments as a turn around and expect the positive
sentiment.s to continue over the next 4-5 years. The prospects of
reviving business with Iraq and Pakistan. add to the optimism. The
Government has also initiated promotional measures aimed at
developing new export markets and encouraging consumption of tea
in the country. The Government has also earmarked more funds for
development of this sector in the Tenth Plan. This could encourage
tea growers to take up replantation/rejuvenation on a larger scale.

108. Approach to Restructuring of Borrowers Accounts

Borrowers under the tea sector could be dividcd into three segments:
1) Small tea growers with holdings not more than 10 hectares
2) Bought leaf factories which do not have own gardens and 3) Large
tea growers and manufacturers. The bank lending to this sector
consist of both term loans for development gardens. construction of
factory sheds. processing facUities. etc. and working capital facilities
for on-gOing production. Any restructuring exercise would involve
segregation of overdues Into a separate facility to be repaid over a
period of time. The unit would need fresh working capital Bmit for
operations and may also need term loans for replacement/balancing
of facilities to achieve projected levels of production. As part of
restructuring, the unit::, may also like to carry out productivity

134
improVing measures like implementation of voluntary retirement
schemes. etc. While in respect of small tea growers. a standardized
approach could be taken. it is felt that decision on restructuring of
larger units should be on the basis of case-by-case evaluation. In
the prevailing market conditions and interest rates scenario. banks
could consider converting existing rupee loans into foreign currency
denominated funding. This would enable the units to enjoy the
benefit of lower interest rates without the banking system having to
make saCrifices.

While restructuring the borrowal accounts in the tea sector the

regulatory reqUirements Vide RBI's circular DBOD No. BP.BC.98/
21.04.048/2000-2001 dated March 30. 2001 will have to be kept in
mind, The industry had sought extension of delinquency period
beyond 2 half years on the plea that the harvesting season for tea is
9-12 months. However. Reserve Bank of India had not acceded to
this request.

109. Recommended ReDef Measures for various segments of tea

industry

f. Small Tea Growers - Banks may carve out irregular portion

of outstanding in term/working capital loan accounts as on
31 December 2003. into a Special Tea Term Loan (STTL)
repayable in 5 to 7 years with a moratorium of one year.
Interest on STIL may be charged at the Benchmark Rate of
the bank. Fresh working capital limit may be considered
based on assessment of requirements. Working capital limits
upto Rs. 2 lakh may be sanctioned at a concesslonal rate of
interest not exceeding 9 per cent p.m. For loans exceeding Rs.
2.00 lakh. interest may be charged at the Benchmark Rate of
the bank.

if. Bought Leaj Factories - Banks may carve out irregular

portIon of outstanding in term/working capital loan accounts
as on 31 December 2003 into a special tea term loan (STIL)
repayable in five to seven years with a moratorium of one
year. Fresh working capital limit may be conSidered based on
assessment of requirements. Interest on STIL and fresh
working capital may be conSidered at Benchmark Rate of the
bank.
iii. Large Tea Growers and MaRlifacturers - It is suggested
that restructuring options for the borrowers coming under this

135
 category may be considered on a case-to-case basis on meIit.
The position of accounts as on 31 December 2003 may be
considered for restructuring. Irregular portion of outstanding
in term/working capital loan accounts as on 31 December
2003 may be calVed out into a Special Tea Term Loan (STILI.
As part of the restructuring exercise, funding reqUirements for
carrying out a VRS exercise or such other measures for
improving productivity could also be conSidered depending on
the viability of the proposal and suitable repayment fixed on
the basis of cash flow projections. The repayment of STIL
may be allowed over a period of 5 to 7 years Including a
moratorium of one year based on the cash flow projection.
Interest on STfL may be charged at the Benchmark Rate of
the bank. Banks may examine feasibility of converting Rupee
Loans including restructured loans into Foreign Currency
Loans to pass on the beneflt of lower interest rates to the
borrowers. Fresh working capital limit may be conSidered
based on assessment of requirements. Interest on fresh
working capital would be as per the pricing policy of the
bank. In cases where the asset cover is insufficient. banks
may seck additional collateral security from the borrowers.

110. Conclusion
Tea growing regions. because of the use of shade trees in West
Bengal and the Northeast, can be classed as forests. In KeraJa. they
are converting potato and other available land to lca and the
findings of the experts are that tea areas cany out the same positive
functions as forest land, so far as ecology and land erosion are
concerned. Industry's plea is simple, tea areas with shade arc almost
as good as forests and certainly much better than the degraded
forest.s. As such, degraded forests can be given to the industry for
growing tca not only In the national int.erest but also In the
eculogical interest. And It is the industry has formed partnership
with the Govemmcnt to extend its wings and gives effective support
to the industry by allotting land, a big portion of which can be
degraded forests. Pragmatism is called for not le~alism or
bureaucratism. As these forests 'on papcr' cannot claim any standing
trecs. it would be bctter to plant thcse areas with tca and shade
trees! We may classify shaded tea areas as forests and the ratios
laid down for forest -land. will be cffectively maintained. We may
have to only amcr.d tht' definition of a forest! Taking about the
Government. as an act.."c partner. the first partnership contribution
industry seeks from the Government is maintenance of law and

136
order and rationalization of taxation. The Industry and Government
have gone into a genuine partnership where It is in the interest of
both parties to see that the industry keeps on growing and
generates increasingly more wealth. so that the Government can
partake of it and get bigger revenue amounts in comIng years. As a
good partner. it is industry's duty to see that both the Center and
the State earn increasingly more revenue from the tea industry.
Government should consider by taking a smaller percentage of a big
and growing cake. rather than a big percentage of a stagnating and
slowly diminishing smaller cake. Hence there is a necessity for
continuous growth of production through increased productivity of
both land and labor and increased production with more land
coming under tea.
,
While the Industry understands that the Government has certain
baSic fiscal needs. and is willing to do Its best, the Government also
has to appreCiate that if the industry is to prosper. taxes have to be
rationalised, more lands have to be allotted and law and order must
be maintained. However. even with all the help and understanding
from the Government. the industry will not be able to hold its own
in the new climate of free market economy and globalization. unless
its productivity improves most of which will have to come from the
workers. through industry's efforts. Demanding productivity from
workers as a qUid pro quo for Increase in wages does not work. It Is
industry's responsibility to ensure that workers are trained and
motivated to use this training in the overall interests of all
concerned.

137
 Part 1Welve : Product Diversification, Exports of
Packet Teas, Tea Bags, Instant Teas
111. Background

Even 50 years ago. tea drinkers abroad used to buy 'pure' tea from
the producing country of his choice from among the neighbouring
grocers. The teas of different origins were being sold under well
advertised brand names by trading companies located in the
importing countries. These companies got their merchandise from a
number of tea producing countries. In other words. there was a so-
called international diVision of labour under which tea was grown
by poor developing countries especially for the purpose of exports in
bulk a~ raw materials to various developed countries. The imported
tea was then sold by the developed countries through a network of
large Sized companies with substantial capital investment who were
marketing the tea in attractive consumer packs under different
brand names built up by intensive campaigns. This diVision of
labour was not based on any natural advantage as understood in
the theory of international trade. It was based on historical factors
and on advantages artificially created for different companies by
virtue of dominant position of their countries over the erstwhile
colonies. The companies not only controlled over 40 or 50 per cent
of the markets of developed countries but also controlled trade
channels for marketing and distribution of tea. Moreover. there were
some bigger companies which owned plantations and controlled a
large part of retail marketing of packaged tea. Thus, it is of vital
importance that an attitudinal change must precede our attempts
towards boosting of tea exports by the developing countries. This
would work as catalyst to mark a departure from the traditional
POSition of tea producing countries being content With export of tea
as a primary product to value added items. This change covers the
diversification into blending of tea and its packaging would enable
the tea producing countries to free themselves from the vagaries of
the wholesale market of tea and enter the consumer markets directly
where prices are more stable compared to wholesale markets. Packet
tea can help the producing countries to earn added value on
account of blending and packaging and thereby earn more foreign
exchange. Similar is the case of instant tea and tea bags.

It may, therefore. be the strategy of all the developing countries that

they should bring in certain structural changes in the product they
export. This will help them in improving their share in world trade

139
and in earning more foreign exchange. Besides, this would enable
the developing countries to be known not only as exporters of
'primary' products but also as exporters of 'convenient' products or
manufactured goods which can directly find place in the display
counters of the consumer stores tn the developed countries. In other
words. a switch over from 'primacy' to 'processed' goods might open
up new vistas of economic growth for the developing countries
through increased exports. India, which is one of the developing
countries. has progressively ushered in diverSification in many of its
agricultural commodities in recent years. India started by exporting
groundnut seeds and then moved to export of oilseeds and thereafter
to products like meal. In case of leather products. India has moved
from raw hides to tanned, semi-processed to processed and finished
leather. and for over a decadl~. India has been developing markets
for shoe uppers. shoes and leather as well as leather garments and
goods. The same could happen in the case of tea. The question is
what type of structural changes In tea exports i.e. product
diversification has been achieved in India so far.
112. Export of Packet tea
India Is the largest producer and exporter of tea in the world and is
expected to produce 850 million kgs in 2004 assuming an average
annual growth rate in tea production to Uw extent of a little over 3
per cent. other things remaining constanl. On an average. India
produced about 820 million kgs annually during the last five years.
India produced 826 million kgs of tea in 2002 and her share in
world production was 27 per cent. The volume of her tea exports
was 201 m kg in 2002 which accounted for 14 per cent of world
exports and these are mostly in bulk form. India has been trying to
maximise exports particularly in the form of processed tea such as
packets, tea bags, and instant tea.
In India. tea packets contaIning loose tea are still the normal fonn of
packaging. India for the first time started the export of packet tea [in
consumer pack upto a size of I kgl in 1965. Six years lall'r she
ventured into export of tea bags. instant tea, etc. Sincc then lndia
has been making steady and consistent progress in llH~ exporl of
packet tea. In 1965. wit h only lw() firms in the field. she had
exported 2 111 kgs of packet tea and at the end of fivc years. with
entry of few lIlore firm". her h'a exports doubled to 4 III kgs 1971-
72 and in another 4 years. ('xports reached the level of about 11 m
kgs (1975-76). The prooi·css. sinn' thc..~n. 110tewortllY wit.h the entry of
more than 200 firms in the I"it-lei.

140
The year-wise growth of exports of packet tea in India for the last
two and a half decades since 1973-74. is given below:

Table 27 : Export of packet tea from India during

1973-74 to 2001-2002
Year Quantity [th kg] value [Rs.J Unit value (Rs/kg]
1973-74 4744 50216.00 10.58 _.-=:
1974-75 6095 83051.00 13.56
1975-76 10787 172457.00 15.99
1976-77 12612 193635.00 15.37
1977-78 25187 519834.00 20.64
1978-79 38599 787384.00 20.40
1979-80 30024 580703.00 19.34
19BD-81 32322 699834.00 21.65
1981-82 20493 468216.00 22.85
1982-83 10101 263232.00 26.06
1983-84 17368 521288.00 30.01
1984-85 21841 9a0552.00 42.61
1985-86 25690 994063.00 38.69
1986-87 16847 595727.00 35.36
1987-88 21142 785994.00 37.18
1988-89 25541 879841.00 34.45
1989-90 75817 3548148.00 46.80
1990-91 71514 3908642.00 54.64
1991-92 78321 4520917.00 57.72
1992-93 65245 4040263.00 61.92
1993-94 64917 4685722.00 72.18
1994-95 52042 3577669.00 68.75
1995-96 83965 6162394.00 73.39
1996-97 81016 5714458.00 70.53
1997-98 78115 7490434.00 97.89
1998-99 82013 8904328.00 108.57
1999-2000 63518 674390.00 106.16
2000-01 69315 7195601.00 103.89
2001-02 42719 5211372.00 121.99
Soure('s : UMOLIS isSllCS qJ Tea Slali.... llcs. Tea Board. Koikata

India's export of packet tea increased from 5 m kgs in 1973-74 to

43 m kgs in 2001-02. Yearwise data further reveaJed that on many
Occasions India could not retain the volume of her preceding years
exports. Export of packet tea showed a record increase of R4 m kgs
in 1995-96 fol iowed by 82 m kgs in 1998-99 and 81 m kgs in
1996-97. On an average India exported about 68 m kgs fetching Rs.
712 crore with average unit price of Rs I05 per Kg. India acquired
an important position as the worlds largest direct exporter of packet
tea surpassing the U K. She is the leading exporter of packet tea

141
and accounts for 60 percent of world trade in packet tea. It is
interestlng to note that packet tea imports constituted nearly 20 per
cent of total world imports and India constitutes for nearly half of it
by way of direct export of this item during the year.

113. Direction • Regionwlse Packet Tea Export

During the last 4 decades major changes have already taken place
in the tea market in the world. Countries like USA, UK, Canada
and others have preference for packet tea, tea bags, instant tea in
recent years. The countries in the region of West ASia and North
Africa place their order mostly for these items. The exports of packet
tea in the countries of West Europe (United Kingdom, Irish,
Netherland, Germcmy. Austria. Finland etc.) are also gradually falling.
On an average, about 4 m kgs are exported to West Europe, 21 m
kg to East Europe. 1.5 m kg to America {North & Latin AmericaJ.

114. Export of Tea Bags

In order to cope up with changing consumer preferences. India

started production and export of tea bags from 1971 onwards with
three firms. Progress made since then has been considerable and at
present there are many firms manufacturing tea bags. The progress
relating to export of tea bags in India is sct oul below:

Table 28 : Export of Tea bags during 1973-74 to 2001-02

Year Quantity [tb kg} value 1Rs.1 Unit value IRs/kg}
1973-74 4744 50216.00 10.58
1973-74 144 3571.00 24.80
1974-75 108 2752.00 25.48
1975-76 157 5914.00 37.67
1976-77 285 10560.00 37.05
1977-78 390 18522.00 47.49
1978-79 238 10570.00 44.41
1979-80 493 20275.00 41.13
1980-81 754 32591.00 43.22
1981-82 777 33531.00 43.15
1982-83 618 23172.00 37.50
1983-84 514 24259.00 47.20
1984-85 "'631 36551.00 57.93
1985-86 590 37839.00 64.13
1986-87 467 31845.00 68.19

142
 Year Qwmtlty [th kg] value [Ra.J Uolt value [Ra/kg]
1987-88 498 32424.00 65.11
1988-89 626 44409.00 70.94
1989-90 546 46875.00 85.85
1990-91 496 43715.00 89.20
1991-92 483 71408.00 147.84
1992-93 520 72536.00 139.49
1993-94 1007 101456.00 100.75
1994-95 1008 144180.00 . 143.04
1995-96 861 125811.00 146.15
1996-97 1716 252479.00 147.16
1997-98 2169 449957.00 207.45
1998-99 2415 498180.00 206.29
199~-2000 2305 557207.00 241.74
2000-2001 1917 385332.00 200.96
2001-2002 2542 597103.00 234.89
2002-2003

exports of tea bag in 1973-74 was 144 thousand kgs which went up
to 2524 tho kgs In 2001-02 showing an increase of 17.6 times. There
was an appreciable increase of this item from 1994-95 on wards.
Except 1995-96, exports of packet tea boosted up from 1716 tho kg
in 1996-97 to 2169 th kgs in 1997-98. It further improved from
2415 tho kgs. in 1998-99 to 2542 tho kgs. in 2001-02. Average
export of packet tea during last five years was to the level of 2270
tho Kgs. fetching Rs 219 per kg. It is also obseIVed that average unit
price stands at Rs 201 per kg.
115. Direction of Tea Bag Exports - Region-wise
Tea bags are exported to mainly countries like Untted Kingdom, Irish
RepUblic, Germany. France. Belgium & Luxemberg of West Europe.
A substantial quantity is also exported to east Europe i.e CIS
countries (Russian Federation, Ukraine. LaMa. Kazakhasthan. etc.)
and Poland. Meagre quantities are exported to USA. Canada and
Brazil of America as well as Iran, UAE, Kwait, Bahrain, Muscat
,Yemen of West Asia and North Africa. Further less quantity in the
level of 20 thousand is exported to Asia other than West (Japan),
Africa other than North (Angola, South Africa) and Australia and
Oceania (Australia). It is interesting to note that over the last three
years quantities exported to East Europe has increased from 1816
th.kg in 1999-00 to 2115 in 2001-02. while it was 16 tho kg 84 tho
kg dUring the period in America. There was fall in exports from 207
tho kg to 106 tho kg in West Asia and north Africa.

143
116. Value Added Concept

By Introducing structural changes In tea exports India has been

sharing the value added market. Before making any attempt to
define 'value added' concept it would be worthwhile to mention that
despite over a century of India's entry in world tea export market
Indian tea has been hardly known by name or origin except. in the
country like UK and Germany. In these countries there was good
demand for fine DaIjeeling Tea while Chinese and Srilankan Tea are
well known in export markets abroad. Even the small amount of
value that may be added on account of the consumer preference for
a particular origin of tea has not reached us. The first value added
exercise could, therefore, start with Indian tea known for superior
quality and flavour to create among consumers a purchasing
preferecne for Indian tea. The next stage would be to create
awareness among the consumers about the regional varieties such
as Darjeellng tea, the Nilglrls tea, the Assam tea, Kangra
tea etc ..

117. Forms of Value Addition

There are three methods by which valucs are added to tea. These are
(1) Breaking bulk and blending Involving no technology but require
skills that we possess. (ii) Consumer packing in attractivc packets,
cans or bags using modern packing materials, if sold in other brand
names (to devote attention towards marketing and promotional skills)
and cost, if sold under own brand name (iii) Product processing and
qualltattve improvement extracting tea solubles i.e., solids and
flavour. The country which exports tea in bulk quantities without
rccourse to value added system is, thercforc. not only deprived of
legitimate share or value added but also fails to reach the consumer
directly. The value added items of tea which are sold in the rctail
market. are In the forms of tea in consumer package and tca bags.

118. Sharing of Value Added Tea

The sharing of value added which could be seen from the price
differentials in respect of packet tcas and tea bags as compared to
bulk teas is shown bellJw:

. "'

144
 Table 29 : Price dlfferentials during 1988-87 to 2001-02
(fob as./ke)
Year Packet tea Tea bag Bulk tea Percentage of value addition
In packet/bag to bulk tea
1966-67 9.88 - 8.18 20.80
1971-72 9.48 20.39 7.47 26.90 173
1973-74 10.58 24.80 7.63 27.90 225
1974-75 13.76 25.48 9.16 50.20 178
1975-76 15.99 37.67 11.22 42.50 178
1976-77 15.36 37.05 12.01 27.90 235
1917-78 20.64 47.49 23.29 -14.00 208
1978-79 20.40 44.41 20.61 -1.90 113
1979-sb 19.34 41.13 18.12 6.70 127
1980-81 21.65 43.22 19.15 12.80 122
1981-82 22.85 43.15 18.15 25.90 138
1982-83 26.06 37.50 18.72 39.20 101
1983-84 30.01 47.20 24.79 21.00 91
1984-85 42.61 57.93 34.12 24.80 70
1985-86 38.69 64.23 30.25 27.70 112
1986-87 37.42 63.84 29.53 26.50 116
1987-88 37.18 65.11 31.10 19.50 109
1988-89 34.45 70.94 31.13 10.60 128
1989-90 46.80 85.81) 42.97 8.90 100
1990-91 54.64 89.20 53.58 3.50 69
1991-92 57.72 147.84 55.61 3.80 62
1992-93 61.92 139.49 56.05 10.50 148
1993-94 72.18 100.75 65.19 10.70 55
1994-95 68.75 143.05 64.64 6.40 0
1995-96 73.39 146.15 71.25 3.lD 105
1996-97 70.53 147.13 75.44 -6.50 95
1997-98 97.89 207.45 85.79 14.10 142
1998·99 108.57 207.45 107.81 -0.70 91
1999-2000 106.16 241.74 100.61 5.60 143
2000-01 103.81 200.96 89.41 16.10 125
2001-02 121.99 234.89 89.98 36.90 164

Sourc-e : Various Issues oJ T('(I Statlstfcs. Tea Board. Kollcata

The data presented in the above table showed that packet tea and
tea bags added more value approximately 27% and 173% respec-
tively than the bulk tea during 1971 - 72. Value addition in respect
of packet tea and tea bags stood at 37% and 164% respectively in

145
2001-02. Value addition for packet tea ranged from 3% to 39%
during the period from 1966-67 to 2001-02, while it ranged from
55% to 235% during the same period in respect of tea bags. Value
addition was reduced to minimum during 1990-91 and 1992-93 in
respect of packet tea and tea bags as compared to bulk tea because
of increase in the price per kg of bulk tea.

Packet tea can offer a dependable and standardised product to a

consumer while tea bags standardisation simplifies the process of
brewing. In the second stage. by marketing tea under a brand name.
although being a costly process in terms of high costs of distribution
and consumer promotion. the exporter gets an easy access to
preferences and some command over the market. together with
increase in profitability comparatively higher than the returns
available ff(~m the export of loose tea.

119. Instant Tea - Its Development

As regards instant tea. India is still on the threshold of product
development. With the gradual acceptance of instant tea by the
consumer. its demand is bound to rise gradually in the near future.
Instant tea is processed in two forms, the cold water solubles (CWS)
and hot water solubles (HWS). These are manufactured both from
the green leaf and from the black tea or from a combination of both
types. HWS has limited market in the UK. Australia. etc. While CWS
has markets in USA. Tata Finlay. is specialising in CWS and food
specialities in HWS. Both the products are manufactured in South
India. The data relating to export of instant tea from India is given
in the table below:
Table 30: Export of Instant Tea from India : 1974-75 to 2001-02
Year Quantity (Th.kg) Value (RI.) Unit Value (RI./Kg)
1973-74 295 9217.00 31.24
1974-75 255 563.00 33.58
1975-76 478 19162.00 40.09
1976-77 584 25064.00 42.92
1977-78 598 31533.00 52.73
1978-79 686 35500.00 51.75
1979-80 656 30509.00 46.51
1980-81 761 36608.00 48.11
1981-82 832 41712.00 50.13
1982-83 m 43185.00 54.05
}983-84 10..9 66874.00 63.75
1984-85 1138 95538.00 83.95

146
 Year Quantity (Th,.kg) Value (lb.) UDlt Value (lb./Kg)
1985-86 938 80428.00 85.74
1986-87 1134 94896.00 83.68
1987-88 8661 66611.00 7.36
1988-89 1147 100986.00 88.04
1989-90 925 90068.00 97.39
1990-91 1283 158039.00 123.18
.-
1991-92 1740 270592.00 155.51
1992-93 1122 221463.00 197.56
1993-94 1320 228667.00 173.23
1994-95 1230 260940.00 212.15
1995-96 1868 446403.00 238.97
1996-97 2483 578336.00 232.92
1997-98 2428 629703.00 259.35
199~-99 2602 653770.00 252.26
1999-2000 2783 831013.00 298.60
2000-01 2574 741979.00 286.04
2001-02
Source : Vanous issues oj Tea Statistics. Tea Board. KoUcata

It will be seen from the above table that the export of instant tea
increased from 295000 kg in 1973-74 to 2594000 kg in 2001-02
showing an improvement of less than 10 times. Similarly, in value
terms it was Rs. 92.17 lakh in 1973-74 and 7419.79 lakh in 2001-
02.
120. Export Market for Indian Tea
Indian instant tea is exported to 23 countries. Among those
countries USA accounts for about 71% of the total followed by
SWitzerland 9%, Canada 6%, Italy 5%, etc. It Is interesting to note
that instant tea is gaining popularity in United Kingdom, France,
Austria, Netherlands. UAE. Japan etc.

121. Incentives to Value Added Teas

In order to encourage value added teas. the Central Government has
been providing various incentives as under :

A. Package Tea
Rate of duty Rs/Kg

(a) Tea packed in unit containers Rs. 0.44 + duty for the time
of content not exceeding 25 being leviable for loose tea

147
 grams and ordinartly inten- which has not already been
ded to sell to consumers in paid (w.eJ. 11.3.86)
those pack.
(b) Tea packed in unit containers Rs. 1.10 + duty for the time
of content exceeding 25 grams being leviable for loose tea
but not exceeding 20 kgs whe- which has not already been
ther or not ordinarily intended paid (w.eJ. 11.3.86)
for sale to consumers in that
pack.

(c) The packed in bags for retail There Is no excise duty on Tea
consumption known as "Tea Bags. but duty leviable for loose
Bags". tea should be paid if such loose
tea is used for manufacture of
tea bags (w.e.f. 15.5.86)

11 % + duty for the time being

leviable for loose tea (w.e.f.
11.3.86)

B. Instant Tea
Rebate allowed on export (w.e.f. 9.9.86)
a. Loose Tea:
A rebate on excise duty @50 paisa per kg on loose un-blended/
blended tea exported out of India Is granted w.e.f 9.9.1986
With effect from 4.12.1986 the rebate is granted on export @50
paise per kg on loose un- blended/blended tea exported out of India
provided the duty of excise so paid is not less than 50 paisa per kg.
Full rebate of excise duty has been granted on loose tea
exported out of India w.e.f. 27.4.1988.
b. Package Tea:
(I) A rebate on Excise Duty @ 50 paisa per kg on loose un-blended
tea which is used in the manufacture of blended tea and packet
tea exported out of India is granted w.eJ. 9.9.1986.
(it) A rebate of additlonal.exctse duly on export of packet tea at the
following rates are ak') granted w.e.f. 9.9.1986

148
 (a) Tea packed in any kind of container not more than 25 grams
net of tea - Rs. 0.44 per kg
(b) Tea packed in any kind of container more than 25 grams but
not more than lkg net of tea - Rs. 1.10 pel kg.
c. Instant Tea
The whole of the duty of excise leviable on instant tea provided that
the duty of excise has already been paid on loose tea used in the
manufacture of such Instant tea w.eJ. 1.3.1986.
W.e.f. 27.4.1988 the whole of the duty of excise leviable on instant
tea.

C. Loos'e Tea
Rebate of Excise Duty granted on exports of Bulk tea w.e.f.
23.7.1983 has been withdrawn w.e.f. 1.2.1985.
D. Cash Compensatory support : W.e.f. 1.4.1989 the C.C.S. Has
been granted at the following rates on f.o.b. Value of exports (valid
upto 31.3.1992.).

Description of the product !tates of C.C.S.

(a) Tea Bags 8% (Eight)
(b) Packet Tea caddies and Tea chestlets 18% (Eighteen)
(c) Instant 8% (Eight)
(d) Quick Brewing Black Tea 12% (TWelve)

122. Problems of Value Added Instant Tea

For expansion of exports of value added items of Tea, India is facing
various problems. These are : (1) Dearth of indigenous know how in
international market, (ti) inadequate production capacity of tea bags,
(Ul) lack of investment for establishment of firm's brand name and
entry into the super markets in foreign countries (tv) imposition of
various tariff as well as non-tariff barriers created by developed
Countries against the entry of Indian tea in consumer packs.
123. Long term Strategy for Marketing of Value Added Items
For evolving a long term strategy for marketing of value added items,
the "Committee on Tea Marketing" set up by the Gol recommended
in its report a three phased approach which is quoted below:

149
In the first phase packet tea export should be confined to our
neighbouring countrIes through local collaboration particularly in
those cases where there are no packeting facilities and tea is
imported in packages espectally in premium range. ThIs would mean
less investment. no clash of interest among own customers and a
prtce advantage on account of lower freight. On both sides of India
upto Africa and South East Asia, there is great demand for imported
packet teas where our exported tea could successfully compete with
others.

The second phase would be collaborating with existing packers In

Europe and supplying the blends in bulk and sharing part of their
profits.

The third phase could be independent marketing efforts tn value

added, medium priced tea in major markets of UK and Ireland. Over
riding all these phases. there are atleast two considerations to
ponder over.

First. research into new tea products and tea blending continues.
Second, to support export of value added tea abroad in the form of
packets, bags and inst.ant tea. we should first encourage and
organise markets at home. It was noted by the Committee that exact
strategy would depend on three factors like creating favourable
market conditions. increasing Investment on export promotion and
building of organisational marketing strengths.

As regards tea bags, the Committee has recommended that the

facilities for manufacturing units in India with tea bagging facilities
should be carefully examined and maximum encouragements may
be given. It has also been observed that to acquire market facilities
and skills abroad. the cost will be high and will have to be standar-
dised. The public sector agencies like Tea Trading Corporation and
State Trading Corporation will be able to work on the problem of
external markettng of value added items of tca. As regards instant
tea, the Committee recommended that the existing companies in the
field as well as new entrants should be encouraged. The company
should invest capital In promoting technical and marketing skills by
encouraging only or part acquisition of R&D equlpments and sharing
international promotion expenditure on time bounds which must be
result oriented and moni.tored against expected returns.

150
 124. Potential and Scope for Instant Teas

Tea is probably one of the most widely consumed beverage in the

world and is accepted and acclaimed everywhere. The worldwide
acceptance of tea is because of its zero alcohol content, stimulating
effect and aroma etc. Many types like black, green, orange,
flavoured, golden, pekoe, etc. grades of tea are available in the
market. These types are mainly classified according to their
manufacturing process, compiled with spices and other flavour
rendering substances. Brewing of instant tea is a common and old
practice. Black and green teas are only products obtained on a large
scale from the tea bush and at present none of the other products
mentioned above are being exploited on a commercial scale. Efforts
Will be tbade for developing and standardising suitable and effective
technologies for tea industry to keep pace with other tea producing
countries like China, Sri Lanka and Kenya who has already made
their mark in the world export market for t~a.

125. Tea Powder

Although commercial production of instant tea began in the 1940s.
little information is available as to what sort of process is SUitable,
as these techniques have been kept a secret by patent rights over
the manufactured products. Generally. tea powder. the basic material
is derived from the fermented leaf. The usual steps adopted in the
preparation of powder are extraction of tea solids followed by
concentration of extracts and finally drying of these concentrates, to
convert them into powder. Extraction is generally carried out by
recovering the solids in water. Concentration of extracts is effected
by evaporation of the water at low temperature and under reduced
pressure. The final step of drying the concentrated leaf is achieved
by subjecting the concentrate to either low temperature. spray, fridge
or foam drying. The sol1d thus obtained is brown in colour and
amorphous in nature but on breeding it turns into brown powder.

One such study was conducted in the tea research laboratory in

Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwa Vidhyalaya, Palampur. The yield of
powder from the fermented tea was generally better than that of
made tea. At present a number of laboratories are set up which
have invented the technolOgies for preparation of tea powder.

151
 Part Thirteen : Small Tea Growers - Problems
and Prospects
128. IDtroductioD

India is the world's largest producer, consumer and exporter of tea

accounting for 30%, 20% and 11% of global production, consum-
ption and exports respectively. India has 112 thousand registered tea
estates covering an area of 5,07,196 ha with estimated annual
prodUction of 840 million kg in 2004. Small gardens (up to 10.12
hal constitute 98.38 % of total tea estate, 16.92% of total area and
16.21% of total production.
,
Assam has 39390 registered tea gardens occupying an area of 2.67
lakh ha (53% of area) with an annual production of 452 million kg
(55% of total). Amongst them there are 30.174 small estates( 84.64
% of the entire North Indian estates) cultivating 30,717 ha (74.13%)
and producing 49,487 kg (75.26%). Besides. tea industry provides
employment to nearly 5.55 lakh work force. Though tea cultivation
is spread through out the estate, the major districts are Dibrugragh,
TInsukia, Jorhat, Golaghat, Sibsagar, Oarrang, Sonitpur and Cachar
Valley. The average productivity of the estate is 1,850 kg per ha and
is at par with all India productivity at 1,865 kg per ha. The highest
productivity is observed in Darrang (1,984 kg per ha.) and lowest in
Rarbl Anglong (866 kg per hal. Tea cultivation in small holdings in
Assam ranges from 0.13 to 3.0 ha or more are spread over almost
all the districts. However. the highest concentration is in the 5
districts viz. Dibrugarh. Tinsukia. Sivsagar, Johrat and Golaghat.

127. Concept of Small Tea Cultivation

The concept of small tea cultivation in home stead gardens and

unutilised land along with other crops to sell the green leaf to the
existing big factOries for enhancing farm income was initiated during
the seventees by the then Janata Government in Assam. Encouraged
by the Government.

Patronage a few farmers of erstwhlle Sibsagar district initiated tea

CUltivation in their high land ranging from 0.13 hectare to 3 hectare.
During the end of eighties the Department of Tea Husbandry of
Assam Agriculture Industry surveyed the possibility of growing tea in
small scale and Advisory Cell was established to promote small scale
tea cultivation by providing technical know-how. In the meanwhile,

153
the formation of all Assam Small Tea Growers Association during
1987 was another landmark for extension of Small Tea Cultivation in
Assam. In 1991. the Tea Board of India approved the proposal of the
Agriculture University to provide financial support to the Advisory-
Cell of the Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology and the
Cell was reconstituted as "Small Tea Growers Advisory- Programme"
to the broad mandate. Apart from Self Employment the cultivation of
tea has opened a wide vista of business opportunities by providing
not only indirect employment but also creating a sound base for
farm income. In a nutshell tea cultivation could act as a catalyst for
the overall economic changes in the rural scenario of Assam
especially in tea growing districts. There are 38.393 small tea
growers in the State. The Small holdings are spread over all the
districts. however concentration is in the five upper Assam districts
viz. Dibrugarh. Tinsukia. Slbsagar. Jorhat and Golaghat.

128. Soclo economic ProIDe of the Selected Borrowers

Small Tea Growers of Assam have been categOrised into 6 socio -

economic background viz. (1) Sedementary cultivators, (11) Educated
rural youth. (iii) Educated urban youth. (1v) In service personnel.
(v) Tea garden workers/supervisors. and (vi) Sleeping growers.

129. Field Practices and Cultural Operations

I. Climate and Soil - In Brahmaputra valley. tea is cultivated

on flat lands at an alleviation of 50-120 msl. In Barack valley.
tea is grown in small hillocks and to some extent plains
adjoining the hillocks. The alluvial soils are generally deep
fertile. have good wat~r logging capacity and respond well to
manure. The annual rainfall of the State varies from 210-290
cm.

if. Variety - The small tea growers are generally using a

mixture of clonal plants and seedlings of seed origin. They
also use approved planting materials recommended by the Tea
Board.
iff. Land preparation and planting - Deep Cross Ploughing
followed by harrowing and levelling is done and small drains
are dug as per sp~cincallon (45 cm x 30 cm) at 105 cm
spacing between drains. The rehabilitation crops are also sown
with same spacing as that of tea after 18-24 months. The
planting density varies from 14.000 to 17,000 bushes per

154
 hectare. About 2 kg of fann yard manure, 30 gm SSP, 30 gIn
rock phosphate and 2 gm thymate are mixed with excavated
soil and the pits are refilled with natural compaction.

iv. Manuring and Fertiliser - The young tea is manured With

10:5: 15 NPK mixture. The matured tea crops of more than 5
years of age is given fertiliser in the ratio of 110 to 140 kg :
30 to 35 : 110 to 140 kg per hectare of NPK. Generally. ring
method is adopted for manuring and fertiliser. However. In
some cases broadcasting method is also applied.

v. Shade - Conventionally. tea is grown under shade. These

shade trees help In regulating the temperature and hUmidity
at'the bush level and minimising the loss of water through
evaporation and transpiration.

vI. Pruning - The bushes are pruned to maintain the desired

shape and height in the plantation. revitalise the vegetative
vigour and attain good yield of crops. Pruning is carried out
in pre-monsoon or post monsoon period since adequate soU
moisture is pre requisite. Generally. 4 year pruning cycle is
followed In Assam. The pruning cycle followed by small tea
growers is as follows: (a) 1st year: Prune at 30 cm and
centre. (b) 2nd year : Cut across at 75 cm and recentre, (cl
3rd year : Prune 28-40 em/level skiff at 60 cm. (d) 4th year :
Prune at 50 cm, (el 5th year : Deep prune/top prune at 35
cm. and (f) 6th year : Unprune

uft. Weed control - Weeds are responsible for conSiderable loss

to the crop. It is estimated that dtcot weeds can cause 12%
1055 in the crop while grasses are responsible for 2001b crop
loss. Weed control is achieved by use of paraquat dichloride.
2.4 - D and glyphosphale. Application of weedicides in
different doses during 3-5 years and hand weeding for 2 years
are also made to control weeds.
viff. Pest control _ Tea is prone to attack by various pests like
mites. caterpillars. thrips. etc. Mites are controlled by spraying
Acarlcite with water and other pests are controlled by
spraying thlodan or ekalux. etc. Fungal and bacterial diseases
are controlled by spraying fungicides.
ix. Irrigation - There Is definite increase in crop yield due to
irrigation either by sprtnklers or by drip system. Some small

115
 tea growers are nowadays adopting sprinkler irrigation to
increase the green leaf yield during the dry perlod. It is done
in the morning or night.
x. Drainage - The drains of 2 ft wide and 3 ft deep are
sprayed over the area of 40 ft. inteIValS along with the slope of
the land.

xi. Ha.roesting and post haruest management - HaIVesting of

tea involves regular removal of young shoots comprising an
apical bud and two or three leaves immediately below It. The
shoots arising out of the sticks (frame) of pruned bushes are
called primaries. Tea shoots are plucked in the months of mid
Februacy to mid December and plucklng round (the number
of days between two successive plucking) of 4 - 14 days is
followed by small tea growers and 7 day plucldng round Is
most common. Harvesting is carried out when the shoots
attain maximum weight without compromising the quality.

130. Infrastructure Support

The Small Tea Growers Advisory Programme in the Assam

Agriculture University. funded by Tea Board. lmpart required tralnlng
and provide technical inputs free of cost. Tea Board has recently
sanctioned another small Tea Advisory Cell at Tocklal Experimental
Station for the benefit of small tea growers. Further. small tea
growers have informal access of information from the big gardens in
the organised sector. located nearer to them. For processing green
leaf there are suffiCient number of bought leaf factories operating In
the district. BeSides. most of the gardens in the organised sectors
have their own factory.

131. Crecllt Bow

Out of the farmers visited only a few small tea growers had availed
of loan from banks. All others raised plantation with their own funds
or borrowed from relatives. Many of them did not approach bank for
loan with the apprehension that they will have to waste their time
running after bank officials without any effective results. It was
learnt that most of the Lea growers did not have patta land. Further.
in many cases title waf> not. dear which was a handicap in obtaining
loan. The growth of small l~a sector has slowed down on account of
limited availability of further suitable land as major portion of the
land has already been put under cultivation. Further. as most of the

156
plantations are 8 to 10 years old. there is hardly any possibility of
rejuvenation or replantation. Requirement of loans for such opera-
tions may arise after another 5-6 years. A field study reveals that
fanners expressed their requirement for working capital for purchase
of fertilser. pesticides and payment of wages including advance
during puja season.

132. Inputs (Raw materials) and Output (Production)

Input Uke planting materials. fertilisers. pesticides, insecticides. etc.

are locally available. Generally. small growers purchase fertilisers.
etc. from the wholesalers in nearby towns and also purchase clones
from big estates or private nurseries because of low requirement.
Average,yield reported by the farmers ranged from 1200 kg to 2000
kg green leaf per blgha which is equivalent to 1850 to 3000 kg
made tea per hectare.

133. Cost of Cultivation

The farmers have reported that average cost of plantation up to 4

year is Rs 76,750 while it was Rs. 45.000 per acre in the first year.

134. Marketing
All the small tea growers sell their green leaf either to nearby big
gardens or to bought leaf factories and average price varies from
Rs. 6.70 to Rs. 9.35 for depending upon the quality. It was learnt
that during 1998-99, the green leaf was maximum at Rs. 11.50 to
Rs. 12.00 per kg. and in some cases it was Rs. 13.00 per kg.
The major problems in marketing of green leaf is the poor handling
in transportation. etc. The factory owners buy on 'first come first
served' basis or at competitive price and growers had to be at the
receiving end.

The situation has now been solved through the price sharing scheme
of Tea Board. The scheme states that the growers must be paid
minimum @ 60% of the average auction price upto Rs. 70 per kg of
made tea. Beyond this. if auction price is more. then tht: amount
should be shared @ 50:50 basts.

135. Problems of Small Tea Grcnren

i. Unorganised Growth - The production of green leaf from
small tea growers is not matched with the demand for tea

157
 market. Further. the production of green leaf is not properly
channeUsed to tea processing fac1l1ties. In many cases.
unsuitable land and marginal lands were utilised for
cultivation of tea affecting the quality as well the productivity
of the plantations.

ii. Land Patta and Title - Most of the small tea gardens
established on government land. ceiling surplus land, grazing
land or annual patta land are deprived of being registered
with tea board. As a result they could not avail the benefit of
plantation subsidy scheme and the bank loan. Although. there
is a provision for issuing provisional regIstration to the
growers with annual patta. normal land, etc. on the basis of
certificate of enjoyment of holding for tea plantation, the
revenue authorities are making in ordinate delay in this
regard.
iff. Technical Backup - There is a vide technological gap
between the trained and untrained small tea growers. Small
tea growers may be imparted training in certain areas like
drainage. manuring. weed/pest control. pruning, etc. This may
help in enhancing lhe producti-vily of tea crop.
iv. Ecological Imbalance - The mushrooming growth of tea
plantation has reported a large scale ecological problem by
way of clearing village wood lots. The commercial forestry
(bamboo plantation, etc.) has vanished and crops like orange,
pineapple. sugarcane. citronella have been replaced by tea.
The indiscriminate use of pesticides and agro chemicals have
brought in havoc to liver and waterline population.
v. Finance - About 98% of small tea cultivation has been
developed through self finance or finance arranged by growers
themselves from informal sources. In absence of tlnancial back
up most of the plantation could not be developed on scientific
Unes.
vi. Marketing - In the absence of well knit marketing channel
for the produce of small tea growers. the term is ,many a
time, dictated by factory owners and growers are at the
receiving end. The problem is aggravated due to the fact that
some growers tend tn supply inferior leaf.
vii. Uncareful handling - The growers and the transport agents
do not appreCiate the utmost need of maintaining the ultimate

158
 product quality to realise better option market and take llttle
care to maintain high standard in parking and avoid damage
in handUng and transport.

138. Conclusion and Recommendatloo8:

(a) ConclusiOD
The small tea sector has come up in the districts of Assam since the
last 15-20 years and presently contributes 25-300/0 of the State Tea
production. The sector suffered due to recession in green leaf price
during the last four years commencing from 2000.

The scientists in the Tea Husbandry department of Assam

Agriculture University opined that the operational cost of production
in a matured plantation would not be more than Rs. 5.00 per kg.
Due to unscientific CUltivation, price fluctuations, etc. small tea
growers are facing difficulty In repayment of loans.
Mushrooming growth of tea plantation has brought in large scale
ecological problem.
Although. a Small Tea Growers Advisory Programme has been set up
in Assam Agriculture University at the instance of Tea Board, it can
hardly meet the requirements of large number of growers. primarily
due to inadequate staff strength.
The benefits of Tea Board Plantation Subsidy Scheme. Price Stabili-
sation Scheme of G0vemment of India etc. have hardly been gone to
the growers due to defect in the prevailing system of land ownership
and timely inaction of Government.
At present. agents are involved in transporting of green leaf from
fanners to bought leaf factories in many areas. This has resulted in
reduction of net gain to the growers and quality of made tea Is also
not maintained.
(b) Recommendation.

The integration of small tea growers areawise under a single

management to synchronise farm activities to the tune of market
requirement.
Setting up of multi point advisory centres at different locations is
essential to encourage small tea growers with proper scientific and
technical back up.

159
Arrangements for training on sCientific and cultural operations as
well as organisation of awareness camps.
Maintenance of ecological balance through utilising high lands for
tea plantation and not destrOying village wood lots.
Developing viable mixed cropping system to be adopted by small
growers.
Carrying out research on developing a prototype processing unit
capable of manufacturing small quantity of green leaf.
Streamlining the marketing system and developing market linkages
in a scientific and systematic manner.
Allowing only registered agents to transport and supply green leaves
to factory and implementation of price sharing scheme during
slumps in the market.

Integration of small farming units and its attachment to a single

processing unit for sale of green leaf.
Marketing of small tea growers production under a separate logo or
brand as in case of Amul or NOGA (Nagpur Orange Growers
Association) .
Strict watch on bought leaf factories for improving the quality of
made tea.
Facilitating term loan/working capital loan for expanding existing
gardens.
Creating better awareness among small tea growers about the credit
faciltties. subsidies and other functional schemes of the Tea Board.
Before sanctioning any fresh loans. adequate care to be taken to
verify land records. technical feasibility of the land. marketing
facUity. tie up arrangement with leaf factories and proper verification
of the application.

137. PoUe)" Issues

• There is a need to frame Government poliCies for allotment of

land pattas to those farmers taking up tree plantation on
government/quasi gove"nment lands to enable the farmers to
register with the Tea Board.

160
 • Government may issue land holding certificates to the effect that
the farmer is a small tea grower having holding with government
land/annual patta land under his possession so as to enable him
to get provisional regislration with the Tea Board. All these will
help farmers to avail of benefits of the price subsidy scheme.

• Government may strengthen the mechanism for price fixation for

the small tea growers.

• For ensuring quality tea from the small tea growers sector. an
effective co-ordination mechanism amongst small tea growers.
green leaf transporter and bought leaf factory may be evolved.

• The ex\Sting Directorate of Tea. Government of Assam may be

entrusted with the task of co-ordlnaUng the entire activities of
the small tea sector in Assam.

• The Small Tea Growers may take up organic tea cultivation in a later
stage after gaining experience in tea cultivation for few years .

• Setting up of tea nurseries with technical support from Assam

Agricultural University (AAU) and finanCial support from banks
may be considered at different places in the district. Further.
streamlining of small tea growers advisory programme by AAU
may be strengthened.

• Tea Board may redesign its schemes to make it accessible to the

farmer.

• Improve co-ordination among various segments of industry •

Government (Central & State). University/Research Organisations.
FinanCial InsUtutions. Tea Associations/Tea Factories. etc. for
better quality tea and stabilisation of falling prices.
Rfiferences
1. Baneljee Barundev (1993): Tea production and Processing. New Delhi Oxford.
IBH and Publishing Company.
2. Arunachalam K (1995). a handbook of India Tea Coonoor. The TamUNadu Tea
Plantation Corporation Ltd.
3. Banerjee G D (1983): Structural Changes in Tea Industry since 1956
unpubltshed thesis submitted to Jadhavpur University. Kolkata.
4. BaneJjee G D (1996): Tea Plantation Industry In India between 1815 and 1992.
Lawyers Book Stall. GuwahaU. Assam

161
5. KunIo O. Tea Industly In Japan. Tea Science and Human Help. proceedings of
the international symposium Tea technology. Kolkata 1950-54
6. Sarkar Gautam K. 1972 . The World Tea Economy. New Delhi Oxford University
Press
7. Banerjee G D : Tea Marketing is no Longer a Fashionable Slogan. published in
IASSI Journal Aprll- June 2001

8. Banerjee G D : Primacy Marketing of IndianTea. Indian Journal of AgrIcultural

Marketlng,Annuai Conference Issue. December 2000.
9. Banerjee G D and Km. Sarda Banerjee, Sustainable Tea Plantation Management
published In IASSI Journal January - March 2004

10. FAO 1995. 1999 : Impact of Uruguay round agreement on the World
Economists position to 2005 and current situation and short term outlook.
paper presented to Inter Government Group on Tea Ottawa September.
11. Assam Review and' Tea News. Kolkata - various Issues
12. Tea Statistics. Tea Boards of India. various issues
13. Tea Directory. Tea Boards of India. various Issues
14. V N Asopa - 2004 Competitiveness of Global Tea Trade - Oxford and IBH
Publishing Company Pvt Ltd. New Delhi

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162
 ANNEXURE - I

I) Number of Tea Estate. - a) North bulla

Di.trlct./8tate 1951(+, 1961 1971 1990 1995 2000 2001

Darrang 98 94 93 ll6 829 829
Goalpara 10 10 13 13 249 249
Kamrup 15 14 15 13 54 54
Lakhtmpur 229 233 15 20 326 326
Dibrugarh @ @ 280 385 21388 22392
Nowgong 22 23 24 34 213 213
Sibsagar (a) 254 262 264 471 15735 16375
Cachar
, 116 114 121 115 206 206
North Caehar - - 9 9 8 8
Karbl Anglong - - 14 20 143 143
Total AII8am. 785 744 750 848 1198 39151 40795
DaIjeeUng 99 97 102 83 85 85
Dooars 155 151 163 168 545 548
Terai (b) 47 48 82 92 910 921
Total We.t Bengal 296 301 296 347 343 1540 15M
Trtpura 55 55 . 53 58 57 292 292
Bihar 9 3 3 1 17 244 244
Uttar Pradesh 45 33 30 8 11 11 11

Himachal Pradesh 1115 1385 1385 1660 3679 3679 3679

Mantpur - - 2 5 39 39
Stkktm - - 1 1 74 74
Arunachal Pradesh - - 6 21 50 50
Nagaland - - 1 8 94 94
Ortssa - - 1 2 1 1
Meghalaya - - - - 15 15

Mtzoram - - - - 12 12

North India Total 2305 2521 2517 2933 5340 45202 46860
(a) Including Karbl Anglong & North Cachar upto 1989.
(b) Includtng West DlnaJpur.
(c) Includtng Cooch Behar.
+ Break up by district are not available
@ Figures prior to 1981 Included wtth Lakhlmpur.
• Provisional

163
 ANNEXURE - I continued

II) N1IIIlber of Tea Eetatea - b) South India

DiIItricta/8tate 1951 1961 1971 1990 1995 2000 2001

Kanyakumari 6 7 7 7 7 7
TIrunelvell 3 3 4 4 4 4
Madura! 4 4 6 6 6 6
Colmbatore 34 31 40 45 52 52
Nllglris 4942 6405 6760 25749 60549 62145
Total TamD Nadu 2772 4989 6450 6817 25811 60618 62214
Cannanore 8 11 - - - -
Palghat 5 5 32 33 33 33
Kozhlkode 22 19 - - - -
Malapuram (d) - 1 1 1 1 1
Trtchur 1 1 1 1 1 1
Trivandrum 6 6 6 6 6 6
Qullon 28 110 104 104 104 104
Ernakulam 4 16 2 2 2 2
Kottayam 1902 2863 3705 953 954 954
Idukkl (e) - - 204 4978 4967 4967
Wynaad (+) - - 34 53 85 85
Total Kerala 1125 1976 3032 4089 6133 6153 6153
Chlkmagalur 11 14 14 29 29 29
Coorg 1 1 6 7 7 7
Hassan 1 1 1 1 I 1
Total Kernataka 12 13 16 21 37 37 37
f--.
Total South India 3909 6978 9498 10927 31979 66808 68404
Total All India 8214 9499 12015 13860 37319 112010 115264

(d) Ncw District. fonned slncc 1969 out of Kozhlkode Dlstrtct ..

(e) Ncw Dlstrtct fonned slm~e 1972 out of Kottayam & Ernakulam District..
+ Break up by district Is not avallahle
• Provisional
Note: Since 1998 figures are Inclusive of Small Growers operating In different tea
producing Dlstrtd./States •

164
 ANNEX1JRB - I (continued)
ill Area under Tea In blella - a) North Inella

m.tdcta/State 1951(+) 1961 1971 1990 1995 2000 2001

Darrang 25320 26509 30897 39989 40284 41037 41233
Goalpara 1467 1603 2098 3141 3176 3460 3454
Kamrup 1881 2074 2713 3557 3013 3442 3436
Lakhimpur 46926 50243 57297 4212 4494 4815 4727
Dfbrugarh @ @ @ 68207 68998 93076 94080

Nowgong 5064 5577 6372 7780 7723 7994 8001

Sibsagar (a) 44571 46433 51930 63348 62810 74807 75864
Cachar , 30445 29928 31018 35075 29969 32008 32272
North Cachar - - - 3696 4263 4004 4047
Karbl Anglong - - - 1358 1550 1869 1869
Total Anam. 155674 162367 182325 23036S 226280 266512 268983
DaIjeellng 16569 18605 18245 20065 18932 17228 17318
Dooars 64609 5475€ 59485 67760 69175 69703 70017
Teral (bl 8402 9344 10769 13345 13083 20548 21467
Total Weat Benpl 79580 82705 88499 101170 101190 107497 108802
Tripura 4773 5055 5444 5778 5952 6623 6700
Bihar 1644 534 460 22 76 1350 1445
Uttar Pradesh 2605 2084 1818 876 1068 1068 1068
Himachal Pradesh 4317 4183 4183 2063 2312 2325 2325
Manipur - - - 140 347 907 950
Slkklm - - - 171 172 296 300
Arunachal Pradesh - - - 195 1361 2176 2250
Nagaland - - - 13 256 1214 1270
Ortssa - - - 213 219 214 214
Meghalaya - - - - - 351 370
Mizoram - - - - - 391 400
North Inella Total 248593 256928 282729 341001 339233 390906 395077
Cal Including Karbt Anglong & North Cachar upto 1989.
(bl Including West DlnaJpur.
(cl Including Coach Behar.
+ Break up by district are not aVailable.
@ Figures prior to 1981 Included with Lakhlmpur.
• Provlslonal

165