The initiative seeks to develop trained tea tasters and tea sommeliers who can support quality enhancement, branding, value addition and market competitiveness of Indian teas, while also promoting tea literacy and creating employment opportunities for young professionals.
The courses have been developed with support from the Agriculture Skill Council of India, an NCVET-recognised awarding body under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The curriculum has been aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF), and was prepared by a committee comprising officials from the Department of Commerce, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, subject experts and industry representatives.
The first batch has enrolled in a 60-hour certificate programme, Essentials of Tea Sommelier, which introduces participants to tea appreciation, professional tasting techniques, tea blending and emerging practices in the sector. The programme combines classroom instruction with practical demonstrations and experiential learning.
Speaking at the launch, Tea Board India Deputy Chairman C. Murugan said the initiative would help build a skilled workforce capable of improving tea quality, strengthening scientific sensory evaluation and quality assurance systems, while encouraging greater appreciation of Indian teas among consumers.
The training modules cover tea cultivation, manufacturing, sensory evaluation, tea grading, blending techniques, tea etiquette and industry best practices. Participants completing the programme are expected to support quality assessment across the tea value chain, enhance consumer confidence and improve the global competitiveness of Indian teas.
The launch comes as the Indian tea industry is increasingly focusing on premiumisation, value addition and specialised skills to strengthen its position in domestic and export markets. Tea Board India said the programme forms part of its broader efforts to promote innovation, skill development and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the sector.