To several people, a mere reference to Assam evokes visions of lush-green tea gardens. Indeed, along with the One-horned Indian Rhino and the mighty Brahmaputra, Assam Tea remains one of the most defining symbols of the state. Saah, as it is fondly called, is so deeply entrenched in the state's socio-economic and cultural milieu that it has become that common thread which knits people across different social strata. Its significance is thus intimately woven into the heritage of Assam.

Discovery of Assam tea dates back to 1823 when the great Maniram Dewan, along with Major Robert Bruce of the British Armed Forces and the chief of the local Singpho tribe Bessa Gaum spotted wild-growing tea bushes near Margherita. History acknowledges Maniram Dewan as the first known Indian tea planter, who established his own tea garden at Cinnamara near Jorhat in 1842. From thereon Assam tea grew exponentially, spreading its roots to several parts of east as well as north India. Such was the growth that China’s dominance over tea production gradually faded and India began dominating global black tea trade and export. Its bold, brisk, and malty flavour profile soon accorded Assam tea a unique pedestal amongst other tea varieties produced globally.

Assam tea today commands more than 10% share in the global tea production market. Backed by organised research for 112 years at TRA Tocklai, it champions the cause of smart agricultural and manufacturing practices for sustainable tea production.

The Bi-centenary Assam Tea International Conference 2024 (January 29th-30th) is being held to celebrate 200 years of Assam tea. It has been conceived to provide an excellent platform for the exchange of knowledge on tea and sharing of information amongst shareholders of the industry. The Conference is expected to facilitate discussions that will help shape the future for the Indian tea industry.

The organisers extend a warm welcome to all delegates and participants.