Assam Chief Minister Launches Financial Assistance Scheme for Tea Garden Workers
In a significant move to honor Assam's iconic tea industry, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma officially launched the "Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli, Duti Paat" scheme on Sunday at Doomdooma in Tinsukia district. This welfare initiative provides a one-time financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to tea garden workers across the state, commemorating the 200th anniversary of Assam's tea industry.
Comprehensive Benefits for Tea Garden Community
The scheme is designed to benefit an estimated 6-7 lakh permanent and temporary tea garden workers, affectionately known as 'Cha Shramiks' in local parlance. These workers have served as the backbone of Assam's tea industry for two centuries, contributing significantly to making Assam a global household name in tea production.
Approximately 7 lakh workers across 836 tea estates are expected to receive this financial assistance, making this one of the most comprehensive welfare initiatives specifically targeting the tea garden community in recent years. The scheme represents the state government's formal recognition of their invaluable contribution to building and sustaining one of India's most important agricultural sectors.
CM's Vision for Tea Workers' Welfare
Speaking at the launch event, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the historical significance of tea workers in Assam's economic and cultural landscape. "The tea garden community has given their blood and sweat for two centuries to make Assam a global household name. Today, our government honours that 200-year-old legacy. Through the 'Eti Koli, Duti Paat' scheme, we want every worker to feel that they are an integral part of Assam's growth story," he stated passionately.
The Chief Minister highlighted how this initiative goes beyond mere financial assistance, serving as a symbolic gesture of gratitude toward generations of workers who have shaped Assam's identity through their dedication to the tea industry.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This scheme arrives at a crucial historical moment as Assam celebrates 200 years of its tea industry, which has been instrumental in shaping the state's economy, culture, and global reputation. The financial assistance aims to provide immediate relief while acknowledging the centuries of labor that have made Assam synonymous with quality tea worldwide.
The implementation of this scheme demonstrates the state government's commitment to addressing the welfare needs of agricultural workers while celebrating an industry that has defined Assam's identity for generations. As tea continues to be one of Assam's primary economic drivers, initiatives like 'Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli, Duti Paat' ensure that the workers who sustain this industry receive recognition and support for their enduring contributions.
