Govt approves Tea quality Upgradation scheme, Rs 230 crore outlay

New Delhi, Mar 13 (UNI) The Government today gave its approval for implementation of Tea Quality Upgradation and Product Diversification Scheme, with an outlay of Rs 230 crore by the Tea Board during 11th Plan period.

The scheme is subject to the condition that an independent evaluation of the subsidy component of orthodox tea would be undertaken before March 2009.

The scheme is expected at act as a catalyst for tea manufacturing units to invest in process modernization/upgradation, create facilities for dual manufacture of tea (orthodox and CTC), improving the standards of manufacturing and packaging, value addition, production of specialty teas and acquiring ISO/HACCP and Organic certification etc. The improved price realization owing to better quality/value addition of the produce, both in domestic and international markets would benefit the growers.

Besides, increase in the production of orthodox tea will result in additional export as it has very less demand in the domestic market.

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