Dibrugarh: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday launched the “Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli, Duti Paat” scheme at Doomdooma in Tinsukia district, providing one-time financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to tea garden workers across Assam as part of celebrations marking 200 years of the state’s iconic tea industry.The initiative aims to benefit over 6-7 lakh permanent and temporary tea garden workers, popularly known as ‘Cha Shramiks’, who have been the backbone of Assam’s tea industry for two centuries. The scheme represents the state govt’s recognition of their invaluable contribution to building and sustaining one of India’s most important agricultural sectors.Speaking at the launch event, the CM highlighted the significance of tea workers in Assam’s economic and cultural landscape. “The tea garden community has given their blood and sweat for two centuries to make Assam a global household name. Today, our govt honours that 200-year-old legacy. Through the ‘Eti Koli, Duti Paat’ scheme, we want every worker to feel that they are an integral part of Assam’s growth story,” he said.Approximately 7 lakh workers across 836 tea estates are expected to receive the financial assistance, making this one of the most comprehensive welfare initiatives targeting the tea garden community.
