Guwahati Tea Auction Centre: A Management Dilemma

Tea binds Assam with the rest of the country. With the discovery of tea plants in 1823, the state emerged as a place of immense significance on the global map, opening wide avenues for direct and indirect employment. However, the tea industry of Assam underwent some significant transformation, especially with the growth of the small tea growers (STGs). The quality of the green leaf produced by the STGs was a concern. Also, to ensure production at a fair price, the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC) was formed where registered buyers, sellers and brokers meet for trading. The GTAC was expected to also provide support to the STGs and train them to produce better quality tea. However, several issues have emerged with the functioning of the GTAC which needed urgent attention. This management case is an attempt to provide a roadmap for the effective functioning of the GTAC which could also ensure the sustainable livelihood of the STGs.