India’s cherished chai, a staple of daily life for millions, is facing an existential threat from climate change. Tea plantations across Assam and Darjeeling are reporting declining yields due to rising temperatures, unpredictable monsoons, and increased pest infestations.
According to agricultural analysts, tea plants require specific climatic conditions—consistent rainfall and moderate temperatures—to thrive. Recent data from the Indian Meteorological Department shows a 15% decrease in annual rainfall in key tea-growing regions over the past decade, coupled with a 1.2°C temperature rise.
‘We’re seeing smaller leaves and lower-quality yields,’ said a plantation owner in Assam who requested anonymity due to ongoing negotiations with buyers. The Tea Board of India has acknowledged the challenge, with officials stating they’re exploring drought-resistant tea variants.
The economic implications are significant. India produces about 25% of the world’s tea, employing over 1 million workers directly. Industry sources suggest production costs have risen 20% in three years due to climate adaptation measures.
Looking ahead, researchers at the Tocklai Tea Research Institute warn that without intervention, some regions may become unsuitable for tea cultivation by 2040. This could fundamentally alter India’s cultural fabric, where chai transcends socioeconomic boundaries as both a daily ritual and social lubricant.