Wokha tea growers showcase organic tea at Tokhu Emong, seeking government support to expand production and markets
With 104 registered growers, WDSTGA seeks processing infrastructure to take locally produced tea to state, national and international markets
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WOKHA — The stall of the Wokha District Small Tea Growers Association (WDSTGA) emerged as one of the key attractions during the recently concluded Tokhu Emong Festival in Wokha, showcasing the district's growing potential in organic tea cultivation and processing.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror during the festival, members of the association highlighted their determination to expand beyond local markets and establish a stronger presence on larger state, national, and international platforms.
The growers proudly described their produce as 100 percent organic tea, known for its distinctive taste, aroma, and quality.
WDSTGA president R Mhabemo Lotha informed that small-scale tea cultivation in the area dates back to 2008.
Recognising the increasing demand and commercial potential of organic tea, growers came together in 2018 to formally establish the association, which was subsequently registered under a cooperative society.
Today, the association comprises 104 registered organic tea growers across Wokha district.
Lotha stated that while tea is cultivated in several parts of the district, not all producers are certified organic growers.
He emphasised that TSTGA follows strictly organic farming practices without the use of artificial fertilizers, chemicals, or growth enhancers, ensuring the authenticity and quality of its products.
Highlighting the vast potential for expansion, he noted that Wokha's favourable climate, fertile landscape, and rich biodiversity make it highly suitable for large-scale organic tea cultivation.
However, he pointed out that the absence of a local tea processing factory remains a major challenge. At present, black and green tea processing is carried out manually, a labour-intensive process that limits production capacity and market reach.
He expressed optimism that government intervention and support from relevant agencies in establishing a tea processing unit in Wokha could significantly boost production, reduce labour costs, and strengthen the district's position in the tea industry.
Since receiving recognition from the Tea Board of India in 2018, the association has actively participated in various training programmes, research initiatives, and exhibitions across the country.
Members have undergone specialized training in Tezpur, Jorhat, and Darjeeling, while also promoting their products at exhibitions in New Delhi and participating six times in the prestigious Hornbill Festival, one of Nagaland's largest cultural events.
Beyond tea cultivation and processing, the association has diversified its activities into food processing. It has secured FSSAI registration for dry fruit processing and is currently engaged in the production of dried wild apple products.
The association appealed to the government for support in setting up a processing factory, maintaining that with sustained assistance similar to that extended to rubber and coffee plantations, tea cultivation could emerge as one of Wokha's most promising agricultural sectors.
"Our tea possesses a unique character and exceptional quality that can compete in premium markets," the association stated, expressing confidence that organic tea from Wokha has the potential to attract both domestic and international buyers in the years ahead.