New Delhi : Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, addressed the Sankalp Foundation’s National Conference on Safe Tea Production in New Delhi today, emphasising the need for India to diversify and innovate its tea offerings while preserving quality, sustainability, and heritage.
While acknowledging India’s global recognition for iconic teas such as Darjeeling, Assam, and Nilgiri, Shri Goyal stressed that the country must develop new signature blends to cater to changing consumer tastes, emerging wellness trends, and premium lifestyle markets worldwide. He highlighted that sustainable practices, responsible labour standards, and continuous innovation are crucial for maintaining high-quality tea with low Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs).
The Minister urged researchers and scientists to leverage India’s diverse agro-climatic zones to create innovative varieties and high-value products, unlocking new export opportunities. He noted that such value-added innovation will enhance India’s global footprint and enable small growers to secure better returns. Sustained research, experimentation, and product development, he said, will be key to keeping Indian tea distinctive and globally competitive.
Shri Goyal highlighted that India is among the world’s largest tea producers and exporters, with nearly 2.55 million tonnes exported annually, and stressed the importance of safeguarding this critical industry that underpins India’s hospitality, trade, and cultural identity.
He pointed out that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, initiatives are underway to support small tea growers, workers, and allied stakeholders. He noted that tea is deeply woven into India’s social fabric, bringing families and communities together. The Government’s ₹1,000-crore package for tea growers and workers, along with tools like the Chai Sahayog App, are helping small growers secure better prices for their produce.
Focus on Traceability and Technology
Shri Goyal emphasised the importance of complete traceability across the tea supply chain, from plucking to packaging and export. He urged stakeholders to explore emerging technologies such as blockchain, which can record every stage of production, ensure authenticity, prevent adulteration, and maintain India’s reputation as a global tea leader.
He also encouraged the adoption of innovative, sustainable farming practices, such as drip irrigation, to enhance water efficiency and productivity. Eco-friendly packaging, value-added branded teas, and greater global outreach, he said, are essential for strengthening India’s market share in premium tea segments.
Social Development and Skill Building
The Minister called for collective efforts to improve opportunities for children in tea-growing regions, underscoring that long-term sectoral progress must include social development. Skilling initiatives, mechanisation, and technology-driven tools for weather and pest forecasting will help growers raise productivity and incomes.
Marketing and Quality Assurance
Shri Goyal urged the industry to adopt storytelling in tea marketing, highlighting the origin, production process, and uniqueness of each blend. He emphasised the need for state-of-the-art testing facilities, supported by FSSAI, BIS, and EIC, to ensure international quality standards are met.
Concluding his address, Shri Goyal reiterated that the government and industry must work together to ensure that every cup of Indian tea reflects quality, heritage, and trust. He expressed confidence that the tea sector will play a pivotal role in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 during the Amrit Kaal.