A Day Dedicated to People in the Tea Industry: International Tea Day 2022

Digital Desk: If you are a chai lover, it’s time to celebrate because today is International Tea Day.

Tea is the world’s most consumed beverage after water. International Tea Day is observed on May 21 every year by the United Nations. The day aims to raise awareness of tea’s long history and deep cultural and economic significance worldwide. The day promotes and fosters collective actions to implement activities favoring the sustainable production and consumption of tea and raises awareness of its importance in fighting hunger and poverty.

Assam, one of the popular destinations for tea, has about 312,210 hectares of land for tea production. Producing nearly 507 million kgs of tea per year, growing at an altitude of 40 to 50 metres above sea level, rainfall of 2500 to 3000 mm annually, rich fertile soil, as well as a tropical climate contribute to the production of some outstanding loose-leaf orthodox teas. Here the term “orthodox” refers to the traditionally hand-picked, yielded, and fermented tea leaves that make the richly scented, flavoured well-textured teas.

These Assam teas have a strong malty (tippy) sweet flavour and a rich amber colour, which provides good refreshment for the mind and is in demand worldwide.

While everyone loves a cup of tea, many of the workers and producers of tea faces poor working conditions and pay. One of the biggest producers of tea, India, recognizes the significance of tea in its communities and as a commodity for commerce.

International Tea Day is all about the tea workers and bringing civil rights into action. While International Tea Day can certainly involve paying homage to tea, we should pay homage to those working in the tea industry. The best way to do this is by helping to raise awareness regarding their working conditions so they can be improved and lead to a decent life.