Context:
- The state-run Tea Board of India is introducing a new certification called “Tea Mark”, expected to roll out in May 2026.
- The Purpose: To implement traceability in the supply chain, curb adulteration, and prevent the blending of high-quality Indian tea with inferior varieties.
- Target: Eligible tea manufacturers registered under the Tea (Marketing) Control Order, 2003.
KEY FEATURES OF THE SCHEME
1. Nature of the Scheme
- Voluntary: Manufacturers are not forced to join, but those who do gain a competitive edge by proving their quality.
- Verification: The mark signifies that the tea has been tested and verified against Food Safety Standards (FSSAI) and existing control orders.
2. Digital Traceability & Verification
- Supply Chain Integrity: The Board will use digital tools to track the tea from the garden to the final package, ensuring the “origin” is not misrepresented.
- Testing: Verification will be conducted through empanelled testing laboratories.
- Enforcement: The Board will take legal action against the misuse of the logo or false quality declarations.
3. Promotion & E-Commerce
- The Tea Board may develop a dedicated e-commerce platform specifically to promote and facilitate the sale of “Tea Mark” certified products to global and domestic buyers.
TEA CONSUMPTION LANDSCAPE IN INDIA
India holds a massive stake in the global tea market:
- Global Standing: 2nd largest producer globally; 1st largest producer of black tea.
- Total Consumption (2023): ~1,197 million kgs.
- Per Capita Consumption: ~840 grams annually.
- Urban: 925 grams.
- Rural: 797 grams.
CONCEPTUAL MCQs
Q1. What is the primary objective of the “Tea Mark” certification? A) To make tea mandatory for all citizens.
B) To ensure traceability and verify that tea meets food safety and quality benchmarks.
C) To increase the price of tea by 500% automatically.
D) To replace the existing Coffee Board of India.
Q2. Is the “Tea Mark” scheme mandatory for all Indian tea producers?
A) Yes, all citizens must use it.
B) No, it is voluntary for eligible registered manufacturers.
C) It only applies to imported teas.
D) It is only for tea sold in rural areas.
Q3. Which digital mechanism will the Tea Board use to ensure the integrity of the tea?
A) Satellite radio broadcasting.
B) Digital traceability and verification of the supply chain.
C) Social media “likes” on the product page.
D) Cryptomining in tea gardens.
Q4. India is the world’s largest producer of which specific type of tea?
A) Green Tea
B) Oolong Tea
C) Black Tea
D) White Tea
Q5. Based on the data provided, where is the per capita consumption of tea higher in India?
A) Rural areas
B) Urban areas
C) It is exactly equal in both.
D) Only in the Himalayan region.
ANSWERS
Q1: B (Explanation: The mark acts as a “seal of trust” for quality and origin.)
Q2: B (Explanation: Voluntary schemes encourage quality through market incentives rather than force.)
Q3: B (Explanation: Digital tracking prevents the “middle-man” from blending inferior teas into premium batches.)
Q4: C (Explanation: India is the 2nd largest producer of all tea, but 1st in Black Tea.)
Q5: B (Explanation: Urban consumption is 925g vs. 797g in rural areas.)
EXAM RELEVANCE
| Exam | Focus Area | Relevance Level |
| NABARD Grade A | ARD (Agri-Marketing & Supply Chain); Plantation Sector | Critical |
| State PCS | Agriculture & Export Promotion (Assam/WB/Kerala) | Critical |
