Assam Tea Sector Boosted Under TDPS with SHGs, FPOs, Mini Factories and Export Growth

Between 2021-22 and 2025-26 (up to 31 October 2025), the Tea Board allocated ₹152.76 crore for Assam-specific activities under TDPS, out of which ₹150.20 crore has already been utilized.

The Government of India, through the Tea Board, continues to strengthen the tea sector across the country—including Assam—under the ongoing Tea Development & Promotion Scheme (TDPS). The initiative aims at improving productivity, quality, and export competitiveness of Indian tea while empowering small tea growers through organized value-chain development.

Between 2021-22 and 2025-26 (up to 31 October 2025), the Tea Board allocated ₹152.76 crore for Assam-specific activities under TDPS, out of which ₹150.20 crore has already been utilized. The program targets key development areas including modern cultivation practices, support for processing units, brand enhancement, and market outreach.

Key Achievements Under TDPS in Assam:

• 437.42 hectares of tea plantations taken up for replantation

• 318 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), 143 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and 26 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) formed

• 31 mini tea factories established to help small growers process and market their own tea

• 30.32 hectares converted into certified organic tea plantations

• 30 farm field schools launched for capacity building and real-time learning

• 1,343 training and awareness programs conducted to strengthen Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and quality control

These interventions are gradually transforming small growers from raw leaf suppliers into processors and brand owners, thereby increasing income and enhancing price realization.

Growth in Exports

Indian tea exports—including Assam tea—have shown a positive trend, rising from USD 751.07 million in 2021-22 to USD 923.89 million in 2024-25, recording a 7.15% compound annual growth rate, reflecting increased global demand and quality improvement.

Independent Evaluation and Future Planning

An evaluation conducted by the Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO), NITI Aayog, in May 2023 found the scheme to be effectively implemented and impactful, especially in productivity enhancement and farmer collectivization. Key recommendations—such as strengthening branding, expanding replantation support, scaling SHG/FPO formation, and improving knowledge dissemination—have been incorporated into the scheme design for the ongoing phase (2023–24 to 2025–26).

The TDPS initiative is expected to continue playing a pivotal role in enhancing the global presence of Assam tea, supporting sustainable farming practices, and strengthening rural livelihoods.

This information was shared by Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.