Brewing Success: Darjeeling Tea Reaches New Heights with Sustainable Practices

Darjeeling, West Bengal: The world-renowned tea estates of Darjeeling have added another accolade to their legacy by achieving organic certification for a significant portion of their produce. Spearheaded by the Tea Board of India and supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this milestone emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices and positions Darjeeling tea as a global leader in organic tea production.

In 2025, over 40% of Darjeeling’s tea estates have transitioned to certified organic farming, driving a 25% increase in exports and further solidifying its premium market position.

Key Highlights of the Organic Certification

Transition to Sustainable Farming

• Tea estates in Darjeeling have eliminated synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, adopting eco-friendly practices like composting and natural pest control. This shift ensures healthier soil and higher-quality tea leaves.

Global Organic Standards

• The certification complies with international organic standards set by bodies such as the European Union Organic Certification and USDA Organic, opening doors to expanded export markets.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Boosting Exports and Revenue

• Organic certification has increased Darjeeling tea exports to countries like Japan, Germany, and the US. According to the Tea Board of India, export revenues have crossed ₹1,000 crore in 2025, a 25% year-on-year growth.

Premium Pricing for Farmers

• Organic Darjeeling tea commands a 30% higher price in international markets, directly benefiting small-scale tea growers with increased earnings.

Environmental Gains

• Sustainable farming practices have improved soil fertility, reduced water pollution, and promoted biodiversity across Darjeeling’s tea gardens.

Promoting Rural Employment and Community Welfare

Empowering Local Workers

• The organic transition has created over 10,000 green jobs in roles like organic farming, compost production, and certification compliance, empowering local communities.

Support for Small Tea Growers

• Training programs conducted by the Darjeeling Tea Association have equipped over 5,000 small growers with the skills needed for organic farming.

Future Plans for Darjeeling’s Tea Industry

• Expand organic certification to cover 70% of tea estates by 2030.
• Develop new product lines, including organic green tea and herbal blends, to cater to health-conscious consumers.
• Partner with global retailers to enhance the visibility and availability of Darjeeling organic tea.

Darjeeling: Brewing a Sustainable Legacy

Darjeeling’s organic certification journey underscores its commitment to quality, sustainability, and global leadership in tea production. By blending tradition with modern sustainability practices, the region is not only preserving its heritage but also creating new opportunities for growth and innovation.

As Darjeeling’s tea estates continue to set global benchmarks, they reaffirm their position as the epitome of excellence in India’s tea industry.