Crop Insurance and Accident Schemes for Small Tea Growers

The Central Government, in conjunction with the Tea Board of India, has launched a crop insurance scheme for small tea growers (STGs). This scheme aims to protect STGs from financial losses caused by price fluctuations, reduced yields due to adverse weather, pest infestations, and other unpredictable events, thereby enhancing their economic stability.

The Tea Board of India, in collaboration with an insurance company, has implemented a Group Personal Accident Insurance Scheme. This scheme targets workers aged 18 to 70 certified by small tea growers across various Indian states, including Assam, Northeastern states, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh. It is a vital initiative aligned with the XII plan scheme guideline for tea garden workers' welfare, offering financial assistance in the event of an accident.

The Group Personal Accident Insurance Scheme provides compensation for death or disablement directly resulting from accidental means. The policy is effective for one year, with an annual premium of Rs. 14 per person, of which the Tea Board covers 75% and workers contribute 25%. Benefits include Rs. 2 Lacs for death, Rs. 2 Lacs for the loss of two limbs, two eyes, or one limb and one eye, Rs. 1 Lacs for the loss of one limb or one eye, and Rs. 2 Lacs for other Permanent Total Disablement (PTD) injuries.