Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1529919
16 STiR coffee and tea | 2024 Issue 6 (December / January 2025) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has vowed to protect the Darjeeling brand by policing the quality of Nepal imports. Speaking at the inaugural tourism fair in Darjeeling on Nov. 13, Banerjee blamed unscrupulous traders and exporters for collaborating with Nepalese growers to tarnish the reputa- tion of Darjeeling tea. According to a report in the Hindustan Times, she said, "We have decided to put a system in place. It will not leave any room for such unscrupulous practices." BK Saria, chairman of the Darjeeling Tea Association (DTA), said growers in the GI-recognized gardens produce 6-7 million kilos of tea annually. In comparison, more than 10 million kilos are sold as Darjeeling tea. The 3-4 million kilo difference is local tea blended with inferior Nepal orthodox processed tea, he said. "Many planters in Darjeeling have been demanding quality control measures along the Indo-Nepal border to ensure that only good tea from Nepal reaches India and is sold strictly as Nepal tea," he said. Meanwhile, the Tea Board of India ignored requests by the West Bengal United Forum of Small Tea Growers' Association to delay the seasonal shutdown of tea plucking and processing until mid-December. The announced Nov. 30 closing date appears firm. Still undecided is a proposed ban on imports of Nepal tea during the hiatus that ends in February. Plantation owners believe the dormancy period will improve quality, but fear Nepal will continue to export mainly low-grade CTC (crush, tear, curl) tea in quantity. India currently imports about 80% of Nepal's annual harvest. By Dan Bolton Tea planters in Darjeeling demand quality control measures be placed on imported teas from Nepal. India Threatens to "Police" Nepal Tea Imports From a tea estate in South Africa to a global brand, Wagh Bakri Tea Group has travelled a journey of 100+ years and warmed millions of hearts. The name and logo of the company depict an image where a Wagh (Tiger) and Bakri (Goat) are sharing tea from the same cup, signifying equality and harmony towards co-existence. Believing in the core value of 'Building Relationships' the customers can sip and experience the widest range of tea and tea beverages with their loved ones under one roof. The freshly brewed teas are paired with freshly made food to give the cus- tomer a homely feeling. Our offerings include 100+ varieties of teas across unique hot and chilled tea-based beverages. These include traditional chai, flavored chai, green teas, flo- ral and berry infused teas, herbal and spiced blends and pack- aged tea. These teas can be paired with a delicious spread of Indian and continental snacks, to enhance the experience. Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge offers the perfect ambience for business con- versations, relaxed times with friends and family. The new prod- uct launch (Chaat's, Gourmet Iced Teas, Combos, Thandai and Frappe) has consistently driven sales growth. Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge was recently honored with the pres- tigious "Tea Café of the Year" award at the 13th Annual Indian Restaurant Awards 2024. This Award was presented during a grand ceremony in New Delhi (India), recognizing Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge's remarkable contribution to the restaurant industry and its excellence in offering unique tea experiences. Wagh Bakri Tea Group's exclusive Tea Lounges and Tea World are spread across various locations in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi and NCR. Wagh Bakri lounges are expanding at a rapid speed across India with an aggressive growth plan. Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge is the perfect place to relax, sip on delicious teas while enjoying tasty snacks and good conversation with friends and colleagues. Photo courtesy Wagh Bakri Tea Report