India Tea News for the week ending March 21, 2025
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Alternative Power Source Drives Solar Adoption in Assam
A reported 0.94 units of electricity is needed for every kilo of tea that is manufactured. While most factories in Assam use coal and natural gas, the high costs and CO2 emissions from their use have been a concern. The Assam Tribune reported that 100 factories have switched to solar power. The report quoted a study of tea estates in Assam and Bengal where every tonne of tea adds 3mn kilos of carbon dioxide per hectare CO2 emission at about 13.61 kg. Fuel and power are significant costs for a tea factory, making the solar source attractive. While initial investment costs are high, the report says the return can be expected in under 4 years. The state government’s Integrated Clean Energy Policy is another stimulus towards green energy adoption for Assam tea.
First Flush Darjeeling: Fire at Longview
Fire at Longview estate in Kurseong, Darjeeling, has razed 120 hectares, leading to a disheartening start to this year’s first flush. The cause of fire is yet to be determined. The fire department took five hours to contain it because of strong winds. No casualties have been reported. The factory also remains safe. But the tea bushes have all been scorched. The Times of India reported that earlier this month, the management issued a no-work, no-pay notice after workers refused to start plucking, alleging non-payment of benefits and bonuses. This accident is another loss for the already struggling Darjeeling tea industry, where 12 tea gardens have closed.
Cafe Niloufer is India’s Largest Tea Cafe
Hyderabad city saw the opening of the 9th outlet of the Cafe Niloufer chain. This outlet has made the news because of its sheer size – 40,000 sq ft. making it the most prominent tea cafe in the country, accommodating 700 people. Hyderabad is famous for its Irani chai culture, and Cafe Niloufer has showcased it since its beginning in 1978. The chain was started by A Babu Rao, whose son, Shashank Anumula, has expanded into a more modern enterprise.
Episode 210
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