Assam: Tea Production Adversely Affected By Climate Change

GUWAHATI : IIT-Guwahati in a recent study found that, the tea plantation in Assam is getting impacted by the ongoing climate change. Certain erratic weather conditions has decreased the tea production in a vast manner. 

The study showed the situation is going to get worse over time. It is worth mentioning that Assam is known for its tea plantations and is one of the largest tea growing states across India. 

However, Assam is also the most climate-vulnerable state in India, according to climate vulnerability index. The IIT-Guwahati study revealed that, regions where tea plantation is carried on in Assam, experienced no less or extreme downpours of short duration in the past few years.

This has resulted in soil erosion and flooding in tea garden areas. As per a report by The Weather Channel, it has been discovered that since 1990 to 2019, every year an increase by 0.049 degree celsius in the average maximum temperature has been seen in Assam.

A decline of 10.77 mm of rainfall has been recorded during this phase, added the report. This is one of the causes behind short winter period. There are several areas in Assam who are still waiting for winter chills as the December month has ended.

The study revealed that, around 82 tea gardens in Assam recorded a decrease in tea production, every time the average temperature goes below 26.6 degree celsius.

These changes in temperature and fluctuating rainfall pattern has affected the tea production in large, resulting in low income and crop loss. Over the last decade, the price of tea in auctions has also declined by 15-20% in several categories.

The affect is majorly felt by the small-scale farmers. It is to be noted that, the state administration has not neglected the matter.

Assam Cabinet has approved the Assam State Action Plan for climate change between the year 2021-2030. This project will revolve around ways and measures on to how to make state more immune to changing climate.

Also Read : Assam Paper Mill Death Toll Rises To 113

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