Why in news?
Tea growers in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu raised concerns about low prices for green leaves and falling incomes. Oversupply and weak demand at auctions have plunged many small farmers into financial difficulty.
About Nilgiri tea
Nilgiri, meaning “blue mountains”, refers to the Western and Eastern Ghat ranges meeting in Tamil Nadu. Tea cultivation started there in the nineteenth century. Nilgiri teas are grown at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,500 m. The region’s cool climate, rainfall and lateritic soils produce teas with brisk flavour and floral notes. The Tea Board of India granted the region Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2008.
Varieties and uses
- Orthodox teas: Whole‑leaf teas with bright liquor and fruity aroma, often enjoyed without milk. They are popular in the Middle East and Europe.
- CTC (Crush‑Tear‑Curl): Stronger teas used in blends for chai and iced tea. They brew quickly and pair well with milk and spices.
- Specialty teas: Frost teas harvested during winter and teas scented with jasmine or lemon are gaining popularity.
Challenges facing growers
- Green leaf prices have fallen due to oversupply and limited processing capacity. Farmers often depend on a few factories and brokers.
- Auction mechanisms favour big buyers and sometimes depress prices when quality is inconsistent.
- Cost of production—including labour, fertiliser and fuel—continues to rise, squeezing margins.
- Climate change affects yield and quality, while pests and diseases require careful management.
Way forward
- Diversify markets and promote Nilgiri teas directly to consumers through branding and digital platforms.
- Improve quality by investing in better plucking practices and small processing units owned by farmers’ cooperatives.
- Lobby for reforms in auction systems and greater government support for tea gardens facing financial stress.
- Adopt climate‑resilient agronomy and expand value‑added products such as organic and specialty teas.