Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins phased distribution of land rights to 3.5 lakh families across more than 800 tea gardens in Assam
Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 13 handed over 28,000 land pattas to tea garden workers in Assam, marking the beginning of a phased distribution of land rights to nearly 3.5 lakh families across more than 800 tea gardens in the state.
The initiative seeks to address a long-standing demand of the tea garden community, commonly referred to as Cha Shramiks, who have lived in labour lines for generations without formal ownership of the land they occupy. The community forms a vital part of Assam’s economy, contributing over 50 per cent of India’s tea production.
Officials said the distribution of land pattas will provide legal ownership of residential land to beneficiary families. This initiative is expected to enable them to access institutional loans, construct permanent houses, undertake small-scale farming and benefit from various government welfare schemes.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister stated, “We have given land pattas to them, and I must congratulate the Assam government for ending a historic injustice towards the tea garden workers,” Narendra Modi said.
Referring to his personal connection with the tea community, he said the initiative was also a way of repaying a long-standing debt. “In a way, I am repaying my debt by giving land pattas to tea garden workers. I have reached this position by selling tea that was produced and sent by you. I have your blessings,” he said.
During his address, the Prime Minister also criticised the Indian National Congress, alleging that the party had neglected the welfare of tea garden workers during its years in power.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the initiative as a historic step toward ensuring dignity and long-term security for tea garden families, adding that the programme would empower workers and integrate them more fully into the state’s development process.
Officials said the phased distribution programme will eventually cover 3.5 lakh tea garden families, providing legal land rights and opening new opportunities for economic and social mobility within the community.
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