Not in favour of genetically modified tea, says Asia Tea Alliance
The Hindu
Asia Tea Alliance rejects genetically modified tea, focuses on sustainable production, and targets untapped African market for exports.
With climate change impacting tea production in different parts of the world and clamour for genetically modified tea being raised in certain quarters, tea producers of several countries under the banner of Asia Tea Alliance on Thursday (November 7, 2024) resolved that they do not favour any genetically modified tea.
“We want to deliver a safe cup of tea from bush to cup and as producers we resolve that there should be no genetically modified tea,” Hemant Bangur, chairman of Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) said.
Also Read: Explained | Why is the Darjeeling tea industry in crisis?
Observing that India’s tea production had fallen by 10% this year, Mr. Bangur said that because of climate change there has been a tendency among some companies to push for genetically modified tea.
“We are all for natural selection so that we get more robust plants rather than genetically modify the tea varieties. So we have consciously taken the decision that we will not go for this [genetically modified tea varieties],” the chairman of ATA said. Mr. Bangur gave the example of genetically modified cotton and said that not much success was achieved in this area.
Along with tea growers of India, representatives of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka participated in the fourth meeting of the ATA held in Kolkata. The other resolution which the tea producers decided during the meeting included targeting the untapped African market to shore up exports.
“We are saying that instead of focusing on targeting saturated markets of Europe and America where penetration of tea is high and consumption is also relatively low. Why not look at Africa as a market? So our slogan is this time for Africa,” Mr. Bangur said.
Australia finishes day four of the fifth Ashes Test at 567, leading England by 183 runs after impressive performances from Head and Smith.
Explore Tamil Nadu's influential role in the 1940s Constitution debates, advocating for state rights against central government expansion.
Demand for a central law to protect Amaravati follows years of political turmoil surrounding the capital
MGM Cancer Institute successfully treats a 41-year-old man with advanced tongue cancer through chemotherapy, surgery, and reconstruction.
Devotees of Lord Ayyappa will now have an opportunity to present their own devotional songs at the hill shrine of Sabarimala, thanks to an initiative by the TDB. The temple management board has decided to include newly composed devotional songs by ordinary devotees in the list of songs played through the public address system at the shrine. At present only devotional songs rendered by renowned singers such as K J Yesudas and Jayavijaya are played at Sabarimala, a Travancore Devaswom Board statement said.
Explore contrasting artistic interpretations of nature at the "Fieldnotes" and "Marking Luminescence" expo in Auroville until January 10.
Experts highlight that inadequate waste management in India results from a lack of infrastructure and community involvement, urging local solutions.
Chennai can alleviate freshwater pressure by maximizing the use of treated wastewater for industrial and urban needs.
GVMC Commissioner announces completion of TIDCO houses in 16 layouts, plans discussions for remaining allocations with local MLAs.
ED investigates suspected misuse of foreign funds by SSPL to influence India's energy policy, probing over ₹6 crore in remittances.
Bomb threat email at Bengaluru Passport Office prompts extensive police and bomb squad response; no suspicious items found.
Indian squash gains momentum for the 2028 LA Olympics after a historic World Cup triumph, showcasing emerging talent and experience.
Daksh Foundation and Sethu Pranic Healing hosted a session on Pranic healing, promoting wellness and stress relief for The Hindu staff.