Tea Production
Why it Matters?
The Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC), the world’s largest CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea hub, achieved record sales in April–August 2025, selling 77 million kg. CTC volumes rose steadily, orthodox teas nearly doubled, and overall tea crop output is expected to increase by 20–25% this year.
What You Should Know?
Tea requires a warm, humid climate with 20–30°C temperature.
Annual rainfall of 150–300 cm is ideal.
It grows best in deep, acidic, well-drained soils.
Hill slopes prevent waterlogging and are preferred for cultivation.
India is the second-largest tea producer and consumer after China. India is a top five tea exporter globally.
It contributes about one-fourth of global production.
Major Regions
Assam produces the largest share with strong, malty tea.
Darjeeling (West Bengal) produces fine orthodox tea, called the “Champagne of teas.”
Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu) are known for flavoury teas used in blends.
Types of Tea
CTC (Crush-Tear-Curl): About 80% of India’s tea, hard small pellets which are used in tea bags.
Orthodox tea: Premium whole-leaf teas like Darjeeling.
Green tea: Rising domestic and export demand.