Tea Development and Promotion Scheme (TDPS): Plantation Development for Small Tea Growers (PDSTG): Mechanization for Individual Small Growers

Yes, an application fee of Rs. 100/- (plus GST) is applicable for all applicants, except for those in the SC, ST, female, and differently-abled categories. These exempted stakeholders do not need to pay the application fee.

The two application modes are offline and online. Initially, the scheme allows for physical submission of applications at field offices (ZO/ROs/SROs/HQ) if the online platform is not yet ready for use. The Competent Authority may accept physical submissions until the online platform becomes operational.

All subsidy payments under the scheme are made through electronic modes, which include RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement), NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer), and PFMS (Public Financial Management System).

Exclusions are in place to prevent misuse. In the event of a change in ownership of a tea garden before the completion of the subsidy disbursement, the previous owner will cease to receive any further subsidy payments after the transfer or sale is completed.

Eligible applicants include small tea growers who are members of self-help groups or Farmers' Producer Organizations, provided they have Tea Board registration or an identity smart card issued by the Tea Board. The identity card serves as a unique identification number for eligibility verification.

Small tea growers are eligible for equipment under the PDSTG component. The ceiling limit for a Pruning Machine is [?]30,000, and one machine is allowed for each or up to 5.00 hectares of tea area. For the Mechanical Harvester, the ceiling limit is [?]25,000 for a Single Man Harvester and [?]40,000 for a Double Man Harvester. Eligibility for the Mechanical Harvester is for each or up to 10.00 hectares of tea area.

He TDPS comprises seven major components, each serving distinct purposes within the Indian tea industry. These components are designed to protect, grow, and sustain the industry. One such component is "Plantation Development for Small Tea Growers (PDSTG)," which aims to boost the production and quality of tea and help small growers move up the value chain. Sustainability is addressed through the promotion of organic and climate-resilient tea. Another component focuses on the mechanization for individual small growers.

Self-declaration under PPC compliance refers to an assurance by the applicant that they are compliant with all relevant laws and regulations, particularly those related to the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act. It serves as a declaration of adherence to food safety standards in tea production.

The scheme requires a survey map of the tea area, preferably A-4 size, to be drawn by a government-approved surveyor or the Land Revenue department. The map should be duly certified and signed by both the issuing authority and the applicant, where applicable. This ensures the accuracy and authenticity of the map.

Organic tea cultivation refers to the cultivation of tea without the use of synthetic chemicals or pesticides. The PDSTG component encourages practices such as using organic fertilizers, practicing integrated pest management, and promoting sustainability in tea cultivation to ensure the tea is free from harmful chemicals.

Mechanization is a critical aspect of the PDSTG component. It provides small tea growers with equipment like pruning machines, mechanical harvesters, power sprayers, brush cutters, and plucking shears. These tools significantly improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance tea quality, making the entire tea cultivation process more sustainable and profitable.

The PDSTG component aims to enhance the production, productivity, and quality of tea among small tea growers. It promotes their overall development, encourages organic tea cultivation and climate-resilient tea, and assists in setting up their own processing units. This empowers small growers and helps them move up the value chain.