Tea tourism and construction of houses under Indira Awas Yojana are the two non-tea activities to be permitted by the Tea Board only on that area within a tea estate where viable tea plantation will not be possible.
However, prior to undertaking such non-tea activities, the gardens concerned have to obtain a ‘no objection certificate’ (NOC) from the Board which will issue the certificate subject to certain conditions.
One condition is that no uprooting of tea bushes will be allowed to facilitate non-tea activities.
Next, the Tea Research Association or Upasi must certify that the areas to be used for tea tourism and IAY housing are not viable for taking up new plantation.
Third, the proposed activities must not affect the existing plantation within the garden.
Finally, no land will be used for commercial housing project, except for creating accommodation for tourists and guests for temporary stay or for IAY housing.
An undertaking on this has to be furnished by the estate owner himself or his authorised representatives.
Also, NOC will be issued subject to fulfilment of relevant rules, regulations and directions by the State and Central Governments from time to time, according to tea industry sources.
santanu.sanyal@thehindu.co.in