Tea production during the months of April and May, 2014 declined by 30.72 million Kilograms (kgs.) compared to the production during the corresponding period of 2013. However, the production during January to March 2014 had gone up by 8.37 million kgs compared to corresponding period of 2013. Most of the tea growing regions have received good rainfall during June thereby increasing the prospect of making good the shortfall during the ensuing peak cropping months. The total budgetary support for plantations including tea, coffee, rubber and spices was Rs.471.81 crores in 2013-14 against Rs.520.17 crores in 2012-13.
Strengthening of irrigation infrastructure plays a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of the tea industry to cope with ill effects of climate change and prolonged dry spells. Government is committed to providing support to the Tea Board through adequate financial outlays for carrying out its mandated functions. The information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in Rajya Sabha today.