Description

About The Book 

Tea ranks among the most cherished beverages worldwide, with Assam renowned for its expansive tea estates that yield some of the finest varieties. Yet, behind every steaming cup of tea is an untold narrative—the dedication of the women who labor relentlessly to make it possible. These women are the backbone of Assam’s tea industry, though their lives, marked by hardships and challenges, often remain in the shadows and warrant greater recognition
This book aims to shed light on their daily lives, the hardships they endure, and their incredible strength. It is also an effort to understand their life style and, their health challenges they face in providing for their families.
For years, these women have worked long hours under the sun and rain, plucking tea leaves with care and precision. Their work is physically demanding and essential for the tea industry, yet they often earn low wages that barely meet their basic needs. Despite their significant contribution, they receive little recognition or support. At home, life does not get any easier. Most women live in small, overcrowded houses provided by the tea estates. These homes often lack basic necessities like clean drinking water, proper sanitation, and electricity. Such conditions make daily life a struggle and affect their overall well-being.
Health challenges pose significant hurdles for women in this context, as many suffer from ailments linked to poor living conditions, inadequate nutrition, and the physically demanding nature of their work. The situation is further aggravated by limited access to healthcare services and a lack of awareness about health and hygiene. These issues not only affect the women directly but also impact their families, perpetuating a cycle of adversity that is difficult to break.
Despite these hardships, the women we encountered during our research displayed remarkable resilience and an unwavering sense of hope. They work tirelessly to provide for their families and raise their children, often making immense personal sacrifices. Their determination and courage in the face of adversity are profoundly inspiring.
This book seeks not only to shed light on the challenges these women face but also to understand and celebrate their lives, culture, and contributions. It highlights their indispensable role in the tea industry while acknowledging the strength and fortitude that define their existence. The book is divided into four chapters to provide a comprehensive exploration of the subject. The first chapter offers a broad overview of the tea industry across India. The second chapter focuses on the living and working conditions of women workers in Assam, delving into the specific challenges they encounter. In the third chapter, findings from multiple studies conducted by the authors in Assam are presented, with primary data gathered during field research. Finally, the fourth chapter concludes by summarizing the key insights and reflections drawn from this work.
We hope this book will serve as a valuable resource for readers, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the lives and struggles of these women.

About The Author

Dr. T. Radha is working as Assistant Professor SS in the Department of Extension Education having the academic background of Extension Education, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore – 641043, Tamil Nadu from the year 2010. She is having the academic background of Extension Education with teaching and research experience. She has published research papers in the International and National reviewed journals. Also participated and presented papers in the National and International conferences. She has been supervising Ph.D scholars. She has served as a Co-coordinator in NABARD sponsored project -Women Technology Park and conducted various skill training programmes for Women. She has organized series of training workshop on Young Women Social Entrepreneurship sponsored by British Council and trained 100 women entrepreneurs.
Shikhamoni Gogoi is a Ph.D Research Scholar from the Department of Extension Education, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Born and brought up in Assam, she has completed her schooling and Higher Secondary and B.A. in her native district, Sivasagar and her M.Sc. from, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore – 641043, Tamil Nadu. Her research interests include Women tea plantation workers, and their living and working conditions. The author has attended and presented paper in national and international conferences.