India explores high-tech tea plantation methods
Scientists in India have demonstrated new ways of growing and harvesting tea, which could pave the way for wider cultivation at cheaper prices and less human involvement. Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur have devised a new CTC (crush, tear, curl) machine that reduces tea processing costs due to lower energy consumption. The machine is dubbed a "game changer" and may represent up to 30% cost savings for small farmers. Scientists also encourage farmers to grow tea in plain lands (as opposed to hills) by turning them into slopes and by using shade management and irrigation. These developments are welcomed by small farmers across India, with several participating in trials for these various solutions.