Dry spell may affect Darjeeling tea

TNN, KOLKATA: Adverse weather conditions and a prolonged dry spell during the first few months may negatively affect the quality of Darjeeling tea this year.
Often referred to as 'champagne of the teas', Darjeeling tea is one of the finest varieties that the country produces. What is worrying for tea connoisseurs is that the first flush or the finest variety of the tea is likely to be hit the most. Known for its colour and aroma, the first flush of Darjeeling tea has been the connoisseurs' choice for ages.;

The first flush is sold through private auction and exported apart from being sold at a premium price in India. Last year Makaibari tea fetched a record price of Rs 1.12 lakh per kg.
"The quality of the first flush depends on the rain during December-January. This year we had a prolonged dry spell and it is likely to affect the quality of the crop," said C S Bedi, managing director of Rossell Tea.

 Tea bushes thrive in cold and moist atmospheric conditions to grow properly. During December and February, when no leaves are plucked, low temperature and high moisture level enhances growth.
"Last year we had a drought-like condition. This year again we are facing a similar situation. Such conditions weaken the bush," said Arun N Singh CEO and MD of Goodricke Tea. "Leaves have already become dry due to weather. If it does not rain for next 2-3 days, things will turn worse," he said.
With the Euro being weak at present, export potential does not look bright for the industry either. "A large portion of Darjeeling tea is exported and we don't see a good fortune even on the export front," said S S Bagaria, chairman of the Darjeeling Tea Association.

Indian Tea Association estimates show that in the Terai region, rainfall is deficient by 60% this year. The tea industry in North Bengal is likely to be affected by the ongoing labour problem in the region too.
These additional problems will most likely push up prices of tea this year.