The tea industry in Assam has taken a significant hit due to the adverse effects of climate change, with provisional statistics from the Tea Board of India revealing a 36.99 million kg shortfall in tea production during the 2023-24 season compared to the previous year.
According to the Tea Board of India, Assam, one of the leading tea-producing states in the country, recorded a total tea production of 661.39 million kg in 2023-24. Of this, big growers accounted for 349.85 million kg, while small growers contributed 311.54 million kg.
This marks a notable decline from the 698.38 million kg produced in fiscal 2022-23, with big growers producing 363.66 million kg and small growers producing 334.72 million kg.
The provisional statistics also shed light on the month-wise tea production in Assam during the 2023-24 financial year. Tea production in the state fluctuated throughout the year, with April 2023 witnessing 37.97 million kg, May 2023 recording 67.46 million kg, and June 2023 seeing 66.09 million kg.
However, production peaked in August 2023 with 101.09 million kg, followed by October 2023 with 104.26 million kg. Notably, January 2024 saw no production, indicating significant challenges faced by tea growers during that period.
The adverse impacts of climate change have exacerbated existing challenges faced by the tea industry in Assam. Erratic weather patterns, including unpredictable rainfall and temperature fluctuations, have disrupted tea cultivation, leading to decreased yields and quality.
The decline in tea production poses significant economic challenges for tea growers, workers, and the overall industry in Assam. With tea being a crucial source of livelihood for many in the state, efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance resilience in tea cultivation are imperative.
As stakeholders in the tea industry grapple with the repercussions of climate change, there is a pressing need for collaborative initiatives and adaptive strategies to ensure the sustainability and viability of tea cultivation in Assam.
