Sikkim MP D T Lepcha Proposes Tea Factory at Indo-China Border Safung, Gnathang-Machong to Boost Economy
First Published: 17th April, 2025 21:30 IST
Although construction has not yet started, authorities are aiming to complete the project within the next three years.
Sikkim Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament D T Lepcha who visited Safung in the Gnathang-Machong constituency, located along the Indo-China border today, has proposed setting up a
tea factory in the area.
Tea cultivation has already begun in Parakha under the same constituency, with the Tea Growers Welfare Board, Parakha confirming that tea production is in progress in the Linkey-Parakha GPU. At present, 14 acres of land have been brought under tea cultivation, with plans to expand it to 100 acres in the long term.
To support this emerging tea sector, a tea processing unit has been proposed over approximately 3.5 acres of land at an altitude of 5,500 feet above sea level. Although construction has not yet started, authorities are aiming to complete the project within the next three years.
MP Lepcha, accompanied by concerned officials and local stakeholders, conducted a site visit today and identified Safung ward under the Linkey-Parakha GPU as a feasible location for setting up the factory.
Speaking during the visit, MP D T Lepcha said the initiative is aimed at promoting agricultural entrepreneurship, generating livelihood opportunities in the border region, ensuring long-term sustainability and self-reliance for local communities, and encouraging tourism.
“This tea factory will not only strengthen the local economy but also empower people living in the high-altitude areas by creating job opportunities and encouraging young entrepreneurs,” said Lepcha.
Also Read: UNESCO Steps In to Preserve Sikkim’s Indigenous Cane Bridge Heritage
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