In the Kumaon region of the Indian Himalayas, Young Mountain Tea is building something entirely new: Kumaon Tea, a farmer-owned tea factory and a partnership between Young Mountain and smallholder farmers. The project aims to produce premium specialty tea, boosting farmers' income and creating a system that breaks from the colonial legacy of the tea industry.
Raj Vable, co-founder of Young Mountain Tea, was initially involved in solar electrification projects in the Kumaon region. He witnessed the challenges faced by farmers, including land degradation and outmigration.
Young Mountain Tea’s mission extends beyond simply producing tea. They are committed to fostering sustainable practices that benefit the environment and the community.
The core of Kumaon Tea is the farmer-owned tea factory. The factory is a critical element in empowering farmers and ensuring a fair share of the profits.
Young Mountain Tea’s approach involves a vertically integrated system, where farmers are directly involved in all stages of the tea production process, from cultivation to sales.
Kumaon Tea aims to create a positive impact on the lives of farmers in the Kumaon region.
Young Mountain Tea has secured funding from various sources, including grants and equity investments.
The new tea factory is expected to begin production in mid-May, with tea sales starting in September. Kumaon Tea represents a new model for tea production, prioritizing sustainability, farmer empowerment, and ethical business practices.
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