GUWAHATI: A two-day training and orientation programme on handmade tea preparation was recently organised at the Community Resource Centre (CRC) in Chandrising Rongpi village in Kohora.
The event saw the participation of 15 women from six villages within the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKL) and 12 enthusiastic students from the local Chandrasing Rongpi Memorial High School (CRMHS).
The programme, aimed at promoting alternative sustainable livelihoods, was made possible by Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation organisation.
Local entrepreneur Mina Tokbipi from Englepathar village led the training session.
She provided hands-on training, covering every step of the handmade tea processing method—from plucking tender tea leaves to boiling, hand-withering, and sun-drying them.
The participants were methodically guided through each step to ensure the highest quality and flavour in their tea production.
The workshop provided invaluable knowledge and practical experience in tea making, enabling the participants to hone their skills in producing both orthodox and green tea varieties.
The comprehensive training was warmly received by the attendees, who appreciated the opportunity to enhance their expertise in tea production.
The programme was coordinated by Aaranyak’s Joshna Terangpi and Sarlongjon Teron, along with other team members.
Swapan Nath, a teacher from CRMHS, was also present to support the initiative.
The entire effort was supported by IUCN and Kfw, marking a significant stride towards elevating the quality and diversity of tea production in the region.
Overall, the training session not only empowered local women and students with new skills but also contributed to promoting sustainable livelihoods in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape.
