Tea production in India has a rich history and continues to be one of the country’s most important agricultural industries. India is the world’s second-largest tea producer, with over 1.3 million hectares of land dedicated to tea cultivation. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of tea production in India, the different types of tea grown in the country, and the process of tea production from harvest to consumption.
Table of Contents
History of Tea Production in India
Tea production in India can be traced back to the early 19th century when the British introduced tea cultivation in the country. The first tea plantations were established in the district of Chittagong in present-day Bangladesh. The British were looking for a way to break China’s monopoly on tea, and they believed that India had the potential to become a major tea producer.
In 1823, the British began experimenting with tea cultivation in Assam, a region in northeastern India. The climate and soil were found to be ideal for growing tea, and the industry quickly took off. By the 1850s, Assam had become the world’s largest tea-producing region.
Over time, tea cultivation spread to other regions of India, including Darjeeling in West Bengal, Nilgiri in Tamil Nadu, and Assam. Today, India is home to numerous tea-growing regions, each with its own unique flavor profile.
Origin of Tea Cultivation
The origin of tea cultivation can be traced back to ancient China, where tea was first used as a medicinal herb. According to legend, the Chinese emperor Shennong, who lived around 2700 BCE, discovered tea when tea leaves accidentally fell into a pot of boiling water he was drinking from. Intrigued by the resulting infusion, he began to explore the medicinal properties of tea, and the use of tea as a beverage and medicine spread throughout China.
Types of Tea Grown in India
India is known for producing a wide variety of teas, each with its own distinct flavor and aroma. Here are some of the most popular types of tea grown in India:
- Assam Tea: Assam tea is known for its strong, full-bodied flavor and malty aroma. It is grown in the northeastern state of Assam, which is the largest tea-producing region in India.
- Darjeeling Tea: Darjeeling tea is often referred to as the “Champagne of teas” due to its delicate flavor and floral aroma. It is grown in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet.
- Nilgiri Tea: Nilgiri tea is grown in the Nilgiri Hills of southern India, at elevations of 1,000 to 2,500 meters. It has a light, brisk flavor and is often used in blends.
- Kangra Tea: Kangra tea is grown in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 meters. It has a light, floral flavor and is often compared to Darjeeling tea.
Tea Production Process
The process of tea production involves several stages, from plucking the tea leaves to packaging the finished product.
- Plucking: The first stage of tea production is plucking the tea leaves. Tea bushes are usually plucked every 7 to 15 days, depending on the weather and the type of tea being produced. Workers use a special technique to pluck the top two leaves and the bud from each branch of the tea bush.
- Withering: After the leaves are plucked, they are spread out on large trays to wither. This process removes excess moisture from the leaves and makes them more pliable.
- Rolling: Once the leaves are withered, they are then rolled to break down their cell walls and release the enzymes that will later give the tea its flavor and aroma. Rolling is typically done using machines, although some high-end teas may still be rolled by hand.
- Fermentation: After the leaves are rolled, they are left to ferment. During this stage, the enzymes in the leaves react with the air and begin to oxidize, which gives the tea its characteristic flavor and color. The length of the fermentation process depends on the type of tea being produced, with black teas undergoing a longer fermentation process than green teas.
- Drying: Once the fermentation process is complete, the leaves are dried to stop the oxidation process. This is typically done using large ovens or drying machines, although some teas may be sun-dried.
- Sorting: After the leaves are dried, they are sorted according to size and quality. Lower-quality leaves may be used for tea bags, while higher-quality leaves may be sold as loose-leaf tea.
- Packaging: Finally, the tea is packaged and prepared for shipping. India exports tea to countries all over the world, including the UK, Russia, and the US.
Challenges and Opportunities
While India’s tea industry has a long and storied history, it also faces a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is climate change, which is causing temperatures to rise and affecting the quality and yield of tea crops. In addition, the industry is grappling with issues such as labor shortages, Leaf Rusting and declining demand for certain types of tea.
Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for growth and innovation in the Indian tea industry. For example, there is growing interest in specialty teas, such as organic and fair trade teas, which can command higher prices and appeal to consumers who are looking for more sustainable and socially responsible products. In addition, there is potential for the industry to leverage technology to improve efficiency and productivity, from using drones to monitor crops to implementing blockchain to track the supply chain.
Which state is ranked first in tea production in India
India is the world’s second-largest tea producer after China, with tea being grown in several states across the country. However, some states stand out as the largest tea producers in India, based on the volume of tea produced. Here are the top five tea-producing states in India:
- Assam: Assam is the largest tea-producing state in India, accounting for around 50% of the country’s total tea production. The state is known for its strong, malty black teas, which are prized by tea drinkers around the world. Assam’s tea gardens are spread across the Brahmaputra valley, and the state’s tropical climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for tea cultivation.
- West Bengal: West Bengal is the second-largest tea-producing state in India, accounting for around 25% of the country’s total tea production. The state is home to the famous Darjeeling tea, which is grown in the Darjeeling district in the foothills of the Himalayas. Darjeeling tea is known for its delicate, floral flavor and is considered one of the finest teas in the world.
- Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu is the third-largest tea-producing state in India, accounting for around 8% of the country’s total tea production. The state is known for its Nilgiri tea, which is grown in the Nilgiri Hills in the western part of the state. Nilgiri tea is known for its brisk, bright flavor and is often used in blends.
- Kerala: Kerala is the fourth-largest tea-producing state in India, accounting for around 6% of the country’s total tea production. The state’s tea gardens are located in the highlands of the Western Ghats, where the cool, misty climate provides ideal conditions for tea cultivation. Kerala’s tea is known for its strong, full-bodied flavor.
- Karnataka: Karnataka is the fifth-largest tea-producing state in India, accounting for around 5% of the country’s total tea production. The state’s tea gardens are located in the Coorg region, where the hilly terrain and rich soil provide ideal conditions for tea cultivation. Karnataka’s tea is known for its bright, brisk flavor.
In addition to these states, tea is also grown in other parts of India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. Each of these regions produces unique and distinct teas, adding to the rich diversity of India’s tea industry.
Which country is the largest producer of tea?
China is the largest tea-producing country in the world, accounting for approximately 40% of global tea production. China has a long and rich history of tea cultivation, dating back thousands of years, and the country is home to a wide variety of tea types, including green tea, black tea, oolong tea and white tea.
India is the world’s second-largest tea producer, accounting for approximately 23% of global tea production. As mentioned earlier, India is known for its high-quality black teas, such as those produced in the state of Assam and the Darjeeling district in West Bengal, as well as for its green teas, which are primarily grown in the southern part of the country.
Which country import tea from India?
India is one of the largest tea exporters in the world, with tea being one of the country’s most important agricultural exports. In 2020, India exported approximately 248,000 metric tons of tea, with a total value of over $780 million. Tea exports account for a significant portion of India’s foreign exchange earnings, and the industry provides livelihoods to millions of people across the country.
The main destinations for Indian tea exports include the United Kingdom, Russia, Iran, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. Indian tea is particularly popular in the United Kingdom, where it is consumed in large quantities and is an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage.
Climatic Conditions Required for Tea Cultivation
- Temperature: Tea grows best in warm temperatures, typically ranging between 20-30°C during the day and 15-20°C at night. These conditions help tea plants to grow and produce leaves throughout the year.
- Rainfall: Tea requires a consistent supply of water throughout the year, typically in the range of 1500-2500 mm (60-100 inches) of rainfall annually. This ensures that tea plants have enough water to grow and produce high-quality leaves.
- Humidity: Tea plants require high levels of humidity to thrive, with relative humidity levels of 70-90% being ideal. This helps to prevent the leaves from drying out and becoming damaged.
- Soil: Tea plants require well-drained, acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5-5.5. This type of soil provides the necessary nutrients and minerals that tea plants need to grow and produce high-quality leaves.
- Altitude: The altitude at which tea is grown can also influence its flavor and quality. Higher-altitude tea plantations, typically above 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, are known for producing high-quality tea with a unique flavor profile.
International Tea Day
International Tea Day is an annual observance celebrated on May 21 every year. The United Nations officially recognized International Tea Day in 2019, with the aim of raising awareness about the health benefits of tea and the importance of sustainable tea production. The theme for International Tea Day varies each year, with a focus on topics such as tea and health, tea and the environment, and tea and culture.
GI Tag for Tea Production in India
Several varieties of tea produced in different regions of India have been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tags. A GI tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are unique to that region. Here are some of the teas that have been awarded GI tags in India:
- Darjeeling Tea: Darjeeling tea is a premium variety of tea that is grown in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma and is often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas.” In 2004, Darjeeling tea was awarded a GI tag, which ensures that only tea grown in the Darjeeling district and meeting certain quality standards can be sold under the Darjeeling Tea name. It was the first GI tag awarded in India.
- Assam Tea: Assam tea is a strong, malty tea that is grown in the Assam region of Northeast India. It is known for its bold flavor and is often used in blends for making chai. In 2011, Assam tea was awarded a GI tag, which recognizes its unique characteristics and ensures that only tea grown in the Assam region can be sold under the Assam Tea name.
- Kangra Tea: Kangra tea is a high-altitude tea that is grown in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It has a delicate, floral flavor and aroma and is known for its light color and texture. In 2005, Kangra tea was awarded a GI tag, which recognizes its unique qualities and protects its geographical identity.
- Nilgiri Tea: Nilgiri tea is a black tea that is grown in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. It has a distinctively floral and fruity flavor and is often used in blends for making iced tea. In 2009, Nilgiri tea was awarded a GI tag, which ensures that only tea grown in the Nilgiri region and meeting certain quality standards can be sold under the Nilgiri Tea name.
Tea Board of India
The Tea Board of India is a statutory body under the ministry of commerce, and is responsible for regulating and promoting the production, export, and marketing of tea in India. It was established in 1953 under the Tea Act, which provides for the control and regulation of the tea industry in India. It’s Headquarter is located at Kolkata, west Bengal.
The main functions of the Tea Board of India include:
- Promotion of tea production: The Tea Board of India promotes tea production in the country by providing technical and financial assistance to tea growers, organizing research and development activities, and encouraging the adoption of new technologies.
- Regulation of tea exports: The Tea Board of India regulates the export of tea from India by issuing licenses to tea exporters, monitoring quality standards, and promoting the use of Indian tea in international markets.
- Marketing and promotion of tea: The Tea Board of India is responsible for marketing and promoting Indian tea in both domestic and international markets. It conducts promotional activities, participates in trade fairs and exhibitions, and provides financial assistance to tea marketing organizations.
- Quality control: The Tea Board of India is responsible for maintaining quality standards for Indian tea. It sets standards for tea production, processing, and packaging, and monitors compliance with these standards through regular inspections and tests.
In addition to these functions, the Tea Board of India also provides financial assistance to small tea growers, promotes the use of eco-friendly practices in tea production, and conducts research and development activities to improve the quality and productivity of Indian tea.
Overall, the Tea Board of India plays a crucial role in promoting and regulating the Indian tea industry, ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry while maintaining high standards of quality and environmental sustainability.
Comparison of Climatic Conditions Required: Tea and Coffee
| Climatic Factor | Tea Cultivation | Coffee Cultivation |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 20-30°C | 18-28°C |
| Rainfall | 150-300 cm annually, evenly distributed throughout the year | 100-200 cm annually, with a dry season for harvesting |
| Humidity | High, ideally between 70-90% | Low to moderate, ideally around 60-65% |
| Sunlight | Partial shade to full sun, ideally 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day | Full sun, ideally 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day |
| Altitude | 600-1800 meters above sea level | 600-1800 meters above sea level |
Tea production in India UPSC
Tea production in India is an important topic for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination. Here is some information on tea production in India that may be helpful for UPSC aspirants:
- India is the world’s second-largest tea producer after China. Tea production in India has a long history, dating back to the early 19th century when the British introduced tea plantations in Assam.
- The tea industry is an important source of employment in India, providing livelihoods to over two million workers, most of whom are employed in tea estates in Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.
- India has several tea-growing regions, including Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, and Kangra. Darjeeling tea is a premium tea known for its unique flavor and aroma, while Assam tea is known for its strong, malty flavor.
- The Tea Board of India is a government organization responsible for promoting and regulating the tea industry in India. It provides various services to tea growers, including research and development, training, and financial assistance.
- The GI tag has been given to several varieties of tea grown in India, including Darjeeling tea, Assam tea, and Nilgiri tea. The GI tag is a certification that recognizes the unique characteristics and quality of the tea produced in these regions.
- The tea industry in India faces several challenges, including climate change, pest and disease outbreaks, and low productivity. The government and various organizations are working to address these challenges through research and development, improved farming practices, and financial assistance to tea growers.
Tea Production in India: Summary
- India is the world’s second-largest tea producer after China.
- Tea production in India dates back to the early 19th century.
- Tea is grown in several regions of India, including Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, and Kangra.
- Darjeeling tea is a premium tea known for its unique flavor and aroma.
- Assam tea is known for its strong, malty flavor.
- The tea industry is an important source of employment in India, providing livelihoods to over two million workers.
- The Tea Board of India is a government organization responsible for promoting and regulating the tea industry in India.
- The Tea Board of India provides various services to tea growers, including research and development, training, and financial assistance.
- The GI tag has been given to several varieties of tea grown in India, including Darjeeling tea, Assam tea, and Nilgiri tea.
- The GI tag is a certification that recognizes the unique characteristics and quality of the tea produced in these regions.
- India exports a significant amount of tea, with the UK, Russia, and Iran being major markets.
- The tea industry in India faces several challenges, including climate change, pest and disease outbreaks, and low productivity.
- The government and various organizations are working to address these challenges through research and development, improved farming practices, and financial assistance to tea growers.
- International Tea Day is celebrated annually on December 15th.
- The ideal climate for tea cultivation includes temperatures between 20-30°C, high humidity ideally between 70-90%, and 150-300 cm of rainfall evenly distributed throughout the year.
- The ideal climate for coffee cultivation includes temperatures between 18-28°C, low to moderate humidity around 60-65%, and 100-200 cm of rainfall with a dry season for harvesting.
- Tea and coffee have different climatic requirements due to their different origins and growth requirements.
- Tea and coffee are both important agricultural commodities in India and around the world.
- Taking tea in moderation can have health benefits, including improved cognitive function and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
- Drinking too much tea or taking it with excessive amounts of sugar can have negative health effects, including weight gain and increased risk of tooth decay.
Tea Production in India: Questions
Q. What is the largest tea producing state in India?
a) Assam
b) West Bengal
c) Tamil Nadu
d) Kerala
Answer: a) Assam
Explanation: Assam is the largest tea producing state in India, producing over 50% of the country’s total tea output.
Q. What is the ideal temperature range for tea cultivation?
a) 10-20°C
b) 20-30°C
c) 30-40°C
d) 40-50°C
Answer: b) 20-30°C
Explanation: The ideal temperature range for tea cultivation is 20-30°C, which is why tea is mainly grown in regions with a subtropical or tropical climate.
Q. What is the Tea Board of India?
a) A private organization that promotes tea consumption in India
b) A government organization that regulates the tea industry in India
c) A non-profit organization that supports tea growers in India
d) A certification agency that grants GI tags to tea producers in India
Answer: b) A government organization that regulates the tea industry in India
Explanation: The Tea Board of India is a government organization responsible for promoting and regulating the tea industry in India.
Q. Which country is the largest tea producer in the world?
a) India
b) China
c) Kenya
d) Sri Lanka
Answer: b) China
Explanation: China is the largest tea producer in the world, followed by India.
Q. Which state in India produces the most Darjeeling tea?
a) Assam
b) West Bengal
c) Tamil Nadu
d) Kerala
Answer: b) West Bengal
Explanation: Darjeeling tea is produced in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
Q. What is the main challenge faced by the tea industry in India?
a) Low demand for Indian tea in the global market
b) Pests and diseases that affect tea plantations
c) Lack of government support for tea growers
d) Overproduction of tea leading to a surplus in the market
Answer: b) Pests and diseases that affect tea plantations
Explanation: The tea industry in India faces several challenges, including climate change, pests and diseases that affect tea plantations, and low productivity.
Q. Which country is the largest market for Indian tea exports?
a) China
b) USA
c) UK
d) Russia
Answer: c) UK
Explanation: The UK is the largest market for Indian tea exports, followed by Russia and Iran.
Q. What is the ideal humidity range for tea cultivation?
a) 10-20%
b) 20-30%
c) 30-40%
d) 40-50%
Answer: b
Q. With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: ( UPSC 2022)
- The Tea Board is a statutory body.
- It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru.
- The Board has overseas offices in Dubai and Moscow.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4
Solution: The correct statements regarding the Tea Board in India are:
S1: The Tea Board is a statutory body. Correct.
S2: It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, not Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Incorrect.
S3: The Tea Board’s Head Office is located in Kolkata, not Bengaluru. Incorrect
S4: The Board has overseas offices in Dubai and London, Moscow. Correct.
Therefore, The correct option is (d).
Q. Consider the following States: ( UPSC 2022)
- Andhra Pradesh
- Kerala
- Himachal Pradesh
- Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
(a) Only one State
(b) Only two States
(c) Only three States
(d) All four States
Solution: There is no significant tea cultivation in Andhra Pradesh. Rest all three are tea producing states. Hence, the answer will be (c).
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