Diversification of Income for Small Tea Growers in Assam

Small tea growers in Assam can cultivate a variety of crops like bananas, papayas, lemons, and oranges in their gardens in addition to tea. This diversification allows them to earn a steady income for six to eight months of the year, supplementing the income from tea cultivation alone and generating a sizable sum of money.

To further enhance their income, small tea growers can establish dairy farms, piggery farms, or broiler farms in the unused areas of their land. These ventures not only provide a regular income source but also fulfill the manure requirements for their gardens, creating a sustainable and beneficial cycle. A survey revealed that 35 extremely tiny tea producers (with less than 5 bighas of land) improved their income and living standards by adopting dairy, piggery, or poultry farming.