The 6th National Tea Day was observed in Sreemangal, the country’s “tea capital,” with awards presented to leading gardens, organisations and individuals for outstanding contributions to the industry.
The ceremony at the Auditorium‑cum‑Multipurpose Hall honoured excellence in production growth, quality improvement, innovative marketing, labour welfare and nutrient‑rich tea.
In the production category, Sri Gobindapur Tea Estate was named highest producer per acre, while Madhupur Tea Estate received recognition for best quality tea. Consolidated Tea & Lands Company (Bangladesh) Ltd was awarded best exporter.
In the small‑scale sector, Md Motiur Rahman of Sonapatila village, Panchagarh, was selected best grower. Mirzapore Tea Estate was honoured for labour welfare.
Kazi and Kazi Tea Estate Ltd secured two awards — innovative marketing and nutritious blends. Jasmin Oraon of Nepucha Tea Estate was named best plucker. Shrishti Tea Ltd in Panchagarh Sadar received best bottling factory.
Chief Guest MP Md Mujibur Rahman Choudhury inaugurated the event by releasing balloons and festoons. He said tea is tied to Bangladesh’s history, economy and millions of livelihoods.
“We must move forward with determination to make the industry modern, sustainable and of international standard,” he said, stressing fair wages, housing, education, healthcare and social security for workers. He also proposed a Sreemangal Tourism Development Authority to promote “tea tourism.”
Presiding, Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan reaffirmed government commitment to workers’ welfare and urged better coordination among stakeholders.
Bangladesh Tea Board Chairman Major General Md Mesbah Uddin Ahmed delivered the welcome speech, noting digitalised operations and licensing, and the launch of two mobile apps — Bangladesh Tea Industry and Duti Pata Ekti Kuri. He said high‑yielding clones from the Tea Research Institute are boosting output, while value‑added teas such as Jasmine, Rose, Lemon, Masala and Chocolate are being promoted for exports.
Speeches were also delivered by Tea Workers League GS Nripen Paul, Yakub Ali, Niaz Siddiqui, Sirajul Islam Chowdhury, Shah Moinuddin Hasan and Kamran Tanvirur Rahman.
Following the ceremony, guests toured stalls at a tea fair, engaging with buyers and sellers on production and market management.
