The Fading Scent of Kangra Tea: A Concern in the Lead-up to Lok Sabha Elections

The fading scent of Kangra tea worries growers in lead-up to Lok Sabha elections

Despite its historical significance and economic potential, the revival of Kangra tea has been conspicuously absent from the election campaign this Lok Sabha election. Kangra tea, known for its distinct flavor, not finding a place in the political discourse has raised concerns among locals and industry stakeholders who have long-awaited the government’s focused attention to revive the industry.

As the election season nears its conclusion, stakeholders await acknowledgment and commitment from political leaders towards the revival and promotion of Kangra tea, a cornerstone of the region’s heritage and economy. According to data shared by Tea Board of India officials in Palampur, 2,310 hectares of land is under tea cultivation on paper. However, only around 1,400 hectares are currently being used.

The Kangra tea has lost favor, and production has plummeted in recent years. The annual production hovers at around 9 to 10 lakh kg, far less than the 17 to 18 lakh kg produced a few decades ago. The stakeholders say only concerted efforts can revive the industry and make it a viable business for small-scale growers.

Kangra Valley Small Tea Planters Association president Suksham Butail emphasized the need to revive tea factories to rekindle the interest of growers. He highlighted the potential of tea tourism to attract visitors to the region, suggesting that the government should allow small growers to use specific land areas for tourism purposes.

Once popular in Europe, Central Asia, and Australia, the Kangra tea has lost favor and production has plummeted in recent years. A senior official at the Tea Board of India, Palampur, mentioned that the state and central governments have supported the tea industry but emphasized the need for strong political intervention in certain areas.

Kangra tea is known for its unique aroma and traces of fruity flavor, grown on the slopes of the Dhauladhar mountain range in the western Himalayas. With its historical significance and economic potential, the revival of Kangra tea is crucial for the region’s heritage and economy. It is time for political leaders to pay attention to this fading gem and work towards its revival and promotion.