The partnership will introduce improved agriculture practices and offer carbon finance to 1,100 sector tea gardens and more than 200,000 small tea growers.
Tea Research Institute TRA Tocklai and Boomitra, the 2023 Earthshot Prize winner and a leader in soil carbon marketplaces, have formed a partnership to transform tea farming in Eastern India with regenerative agriculture. The partnership will introduce improved agriculture practices and offer carbon finance to 1,100 sector tea gardens and more than 200,000 small tea growers.
The collaboration aims to transform the tea sector in India to be climate resilient for generations to come while sequestering carbon from the atmosphere.
Established as the oldest and largest tea research institute worldwide, TRA Tocklai plays a pivotal role in addressing the research and development needs of the Indian tea industry. With a primary focus on enhancing overall productivity and quality, TRA Tocklai is renowned for its groundbreaking research and innovative extension services.
The collaboration between TRA Tocklai and Boomitra signifies a major stride towards sustainable tea cultivation. Boomitra will leverage its expertise to assist TRA growers in adopting regenerative agriculture practices. This initiative is designed to enhance productivity, promote soil health, and contribute to carbon sequestration.
In addition to promoting regenerative agriculture guidance, Boomitra will enable tea growers associated with TRA to generate income through the sale of carbon credits. This innovative approach aligns with the global movement towards sustainable agriculture and provides a unique economic incentive for tea farmers to contribute to environmental conservation.
“We are thrilled to partner with the esteemed Tea Research Association to bring regenerative agriculture practices and carbon finance to tea growers in India. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and supporting farmers in mitigating climate change,” said Aadith Moorthy, CEO and Founder of Boomitra.
“The exclusive agreement with Boomitra marks a significant milestone for TRA Tocklai and the tea industry at large. By integrating regenerative agriculture and carbon finance into our practices, we aim to create a more resilient and sustainable future for our tea growers,” said Joydeep Phukan, Secretary of the Tea Research Association.
The partnership underscores TRA and Boomitra’s joint commitment to environmental sustainability, economic empowerment for tea growers, and the advancement of regenerative agriculture practices in India.