India Showcases Tea Heritage at UN for International Tea Day
India hosted a special event at the United Nations headquarters in New York to commemorate International Tea Day. The event highlighted the rich aromas and flavors of popular Indian teas, showcasing the beverage's cultural significance and its contribution to empowering communities involved in tea cultivation and production. This diplomatic initiative aimed to promote Indian tea globally and underscore its economic and social importance on an international platform.
Unpacked:
Tea is deeply embedded in Indian daily life, symbolizing hospitality and social connection. It is consumed across all regions and social classes, often in the form of 'chai.' The beverage is central to gatherings, rituals, and even business meetings, making it a vital part of Indian culture and identity.
India is the world's second-largest tea producer and exporter, with the industry valued at over INR 1 trillion in 2024. The sector supports millions of jobs, particularly in rural areas, and contributes significantly to exports. Tea cultivation and trade are vital for the livelihoods of many communities across the country.
Key challenges include rising production costs, labor shortages due to migration, climate change impacts on crop yields, and increasing competition from other tea-producing countries. These factors affect productivity, profitability, and pricing within the industry, prompting a shift toward sustainable practices and modernization.
Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri teas are the most renowned Indian varieties globally. Each offers distinctive flavors and aromas, with Darjeeling often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas.” These varieties are prized for their quality and play a crucial role in India’s tea exports.