A training programme on handmade tea processing was recently conducted for small tea growers in Sivoram Terang and Sarbura Singnar villages under the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKL) of Assam. The initiative was organised by biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak.
Twelve new trainees and three participants attending a refresher session took part in the programme, which was held in the Diring River Basin. The training was led by tea expert Mina Tokbipi from Englepathar village and focused on practical aspects of processing including plucking, withering, rolling, drying and quality evaluation.
The programme aimed to equip local growers with skills to produce high-quality handmade tea, strengthen the local tea industry and help farmers meet market standards. Participants were also trained in sustainable practices to maintain the tea-growing traditions of the region.
One of the participants, Jevilyn Hansepi, said she had attended a similar training in 2023 but returned to refresh her knowledge. She stated that revisiting the course helped her regain confidence and learn new techniques to improve tea quality. Another grower, Rani Singnarpi, who took part for the first time, said the training would help households as well as support the local economy.
Trainer Mina Tokbipi said she was encouraged by the response from the participants. She added that the training was an effort to equip farmers with skills to produce premium handmade teas, supporting both income generation and the continuation of traditional tea-making practices.
The sessions were facilitated by Avinash Phangcho and Moromi Nath, with support from Uttaran Dutta of Aaranyak. Officials said the programme is part of a wider effort to promote sustainable agriculture and strengthen livelihoods in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape. Similar training will be conducted in other villages in the coming months.
Aaranyak stated that its work in KKL and the Manas Landscape includes promoting alternative and sustainable livelihood options, along with awareness and education programmes. The initiative is supported by IUCN – KfW and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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