Tea planters in Darjeeling have raised that a shortage of commercial LPG, triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, could hit tea processing during the first flush, the delicate early-season harvest that commands the highest premiums and often sets the tone for the year.

The first and second flushes, the premium plucking seasons for India's heritage GI (geographical indication) Darjeeling tea, account for about 40 per cent of annual output but generate nearly 80 per cent of annual revenue. Any disruption during this period would sound the death knell for the already struggling Darjeeling tea sector.

The industry's concerns are sharper because the Darjeeling tea sector is already on a fragile footing as it grapples with climate change, labour absenteeism, declining yields and rising competition from Nepal teas.

Source: Business Standard (Extracts), Courtesy: Tea Exporters' Association Sri Lanka