India’s tea sector must go beyond Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri teas: Piyush Goyal
Guwahati: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has called on India’s tea sector to look beyond its traditional strengths and develop a new generation of signature blends that align with changing consumer tastes, global wellness trends, and premium lifestyle markets.
Addressing the Sankalp Foundation’s National Conference on Safe Tea Production in New Delhi on November 28, Goyal said that, while India remains globally recognised for Darjeeling, Assam, and Nilgiri teas, it is time to widen the country’s catalogue of internationally marketable products.
He stressed that sustainability, responsible labour standards, and innovation are critical to maintaining high quality and low MRL levels, adding that the government and industry must work together to ensure that every cup of Indian tea reflects quality, heritage, and trust.
Goyal urged scientists and researchers to harness India’s diverse agro-climatic strengths to develop new varieties and high-value products that can drive exports and boost incomes, particularly for small growers.
Innovation-led value addition, he said, would help India remain competitive and future-ready in a rapidly evolving global tea market.
India is among the world’s largest tea producers and exporters, shipping nearly 255 million tonnes annually, he noted. Safeguarding this key sector, which plays a vital role in India’s hospitality and trade culture, is essential, he said, adding that insights from the conference would guide the Ministry and the Tea Board in strengthening the industry.
Goyal highlighted a range of government initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the Rs 1,000 crore support package for tea growers and workers and the Chai Sahayog App, which helps small growers secure better prices.
Tea, he said, is deeply embedded in India’s social fabric and continues to bring families and communities together.
The Minister underscored the need for complete supply-chain traceability, urging researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to explore technologies such as blockchain to ensure end-to-end transparency. Such systems, he said, can document every stage of production, prevent mixing with inferior or imported teas, and reinforce global confidence in Indian blends.
Goyal encouraged the wider adoption of sustainable farming practices, including drip irrigation and eco-friendly packaging. Environmentally responsible methods, he said, must guide cultivation and processing as the industry adapts to new global expectations.
He reiterated the need to expand India’s share of value-added, branded, and packaged teas in domestic and international markets, moving beyond commodity exports.
The Ministry and the Tea Board, he assured, will support global outreach efforts through international events, trade fairs, and buyer–seller meets.
Calling for collective action, Goyal emphasised improving opportunities for children in tea-growing regions and strengthening skilling initiatives, mechanisation, and modern tools to help farmers enhance productivity and income.
He stressed the importance of technology-driven systems to predict weather fluctuations and pest risks, enabling timely decision-making for growers.
Goyal also encouraged the industry to embrace storytelling in tea marketing, highlighting origin, process, and uniqueness, and urged stakeholders to identify advanced testing equipment to maintain the highest quality standards.
He assured that FSSAI, BIS, and EIC are ready to support the creation of world-class testing facilities across India.