Tripura has ranked fifth among tea-producing states in India and second in the northeastern region. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha stated this while speaking at the inauguration of the Agartala Tea Auction Centre at Gorkhabasti in Agartala.

The Chief Minister said Tripura produces around seven to ten million kilograms of tea annually, with 54 tea gardens contributing to the industry. He said the state government is taking steps to strengthen the economy through the tea industry.

The new auction centre is expected to enhance the recognition of Tripura tea in national and international markets. Dr. Saha stressed the need to maintain quality, strengthen marketing and increase publicity, particularly in states where tea is not produced.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, he urged people to consume locally produced tea. He added that modernisation and expansion of the tea industry would boost the state’s economy, increase the income of tea growers and generate employment opportunities, particularly for women.