Itanagar, Jul 10: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik has advocated the formulation of a vibrant and forward-looking State Tea Policy to unlock the full potential of the tea sector and ensure its sustainable growth.
The Governor made the remarks when members of the Arunachal Pradesh Small Tea Growers' Association (APSTGA), led by its president Tadak Gab and general secretary Kapwang Arangham, called on him at Lok Bhavan in Itanagar on Friday.
The delegation apprised the Governor of the progress, challenges and future prospects of tea cultivation in the state and sought support for establishing an organic certification facility, a tea auction centre, a State Tea Policy, and a special support package for the tea-growing districts of Tirap, Changlang and Longding.
The Governor said Arunachal Pradesh possesses immense potential for producing high-quality organic tea and can make a significant contribution to rural livelihoods, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth, particularly in the eastern and foothill districts of the state.
He advised tea growers to establish a representative corporation and engage with the State Government through a comprehensive proposal outlining their requirements and long-term vision.
Expressing optimism about the future of the sector, the Governor said coordinated efforts by the Tea Board and the State Government would enable tea growers to access financial assistance, quality certification, value addition opportunities, branding initiatives and wider market linkages.
He noted that such measures would enhance the competitiveness of Arunachal Pradesh tea, improve growers' livelihoods and help position the state as a recognised producer of premium tea.
The Governor also encouraged growers to focus on quality improvement, organic cultivation, value addition and branding to create a distinct identity for Arunachal tea in national and international markets. He further advised the association to leverage modern technology, digital marketing platforms and e-commerce channels to expand market access and improve profitability.
The association members expressed gratitude to the Governor for his continued support and guidance towards developing Arunachal Pradesh into a recognised hub for premium and organic tea production.