The Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government’s much-publicized “New India” agenda, alleging that its agricultural and industrial policies are pushing farmers, workers, and youth into growing economic insecurity. The party claimed that the adverse impact of these policies is now clearly visible in Tripura’s traditional tea industry.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday at the State Congress headquarters in Agartala, TPCC spokesperson Prabir Chakraborty said that despite extensive publicity campaigns, the deepening distress within tea estates cannot be concealed. He referred to high-profile events like the annual “Run for Tea,” which are celebrated with fanfare, while many long-established tea gardens continue to grapple with serious operational and financial challenges.
Chakraborty strongly criticized the state Agriculture Minister’s proposal to introduce apple and mango plantations within tea estates, warning that such “experiments” could destabilize the sector. He noted that tea gardens have historically depended on shade trees such as eucalyptus, banana, and koroi, which are well-suited to local soil and climatic conditions. Introducing mango trees without proper groundwork, he argued, raises serious concerns about sustainability.
Questioning the scientific basis of the proposal, Chakraborty asked whether any expert assessment or feasibility study had been conducted before implementing these changes, leaving workers and producers anxious about the future of the industry.
He further stated that experts consulted by the Congress have warned against the planting of palm species in some estates, pointing out that such trees rapidly absorb surface water, deplete soil fertility, and pose a direct threat to tea production.
The Congress also alleged that since 2018, the Tea Development Board has remained largely inactive in promoting industry growth or safeguarding workers’ welfare, instead favouring corporate interests. According to the party, this approach has personally benefited certain officials and members of the ruling alliance.
Citing the 1960 Land Reform Act, Chakraborty reminded that tea estates are legally permitted to house only tea factories and workers’ quarters. However, he claimed that plantations of palm, coconut, areca nut, and even cannabis have reportedly emerged within estates under alleged government–mafia collusion. He recalled that earlier attempts to replace tea with rubber plantations were ultimately banned after strong public opposition.
