KARIMGANJ, Feb 3 � The tea industry in Barak Valley is passing through hard days. Labour problem, including less number of tea labourers for NREGA scheme, inadequate communication system, power crisis, increased revenue tax for Barak tea garden, cess on green leaf, increased pollution fee, less transport subsidy etc. have put Barak tea industry in a hopeless condition. This was stated by DP Maheswari president TAI Barak valley branch at the 39th annual conference of the body held here recently said in keeping with the national trend, Barak valley region has also registered a fall in the production of tea last year in comparison to its output in 2008. In our country tea consumption has increased to 4 per cent. This season the whole NE region experienced shortfall in rain which created obstruction in tea production, mentioned Maheswari. He said the need of the day was to go for better quality tea, after keeping aside the common varieties of the produce in the state gardens in general and Barak garden in particular for blending purpose. TAI BV branch president has expressed concern over the shortfall of the country�s export market as the industry could send only 169 million kg of tea last year in comparison to 187 million kg in 2008.
He also demanding introduction of a special package of concessions and incentives by both the Centre and State government for Barak valley tea industry. Here he mentioned that former central commerce secretary SN Menon recommended for special package for the Barak Valley tea industry.
It may be mentioned that Barak valley has 100 tea gardens at present and needs special care from both Central and State government.
