The Assam Company (India) Limited, recognised as the world’s oldest tea company, celebrated a significant historical milestone on Saturday, marking 185 years of operation with a grand ceremony at its historic Maijan Tea Estate in Dibrugarh. Founded in 1839, the company is credited with pioneering India’s tea revolution and establishing the country’s presence on the global tea map.
The event, titled “Celebrating 185 Years of Heritage and Excellence,” was attended by prominent state officials including Assam Industries and Commerce Minister Bimal Borah, Labour Welfare Minister Rupesh Gowala, Power Minister Prasanta Phukan, and former Union Minister and Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha (ACMS) president Paban Singh Ghatowar. The company’s leadership, comprising Chairperson Seema Raghuram Shetty, Directors Aman Shetty and Dr Shishir Shetty, and CEO DG Hegde, hosted the gathering of senior executives, managers, employees, and workers.
In his keynote address, Industries Minister Bimal Borah praised the company’s foundational role, stating, “Ever since its foundation in 1839, Assam Company has been leading tea production in India, creating a rich heritage that we take much pride in. They were the first tea plantation company in the world… Today is a celebration of a pivotal chapter in India’s industrial history.”
Labour Welfare Minister Rupesh Gowala said, “I call upon the company and industry captains to be more compassionate towards the workforce. Apart from the management, the workers are the mainstay for the tea industry when it comes to its survival.” He added that the state government would continue to support the company’s future growth.
Power Minister Prasanta Phukan appealed for enhanced collaboration, noting, “I request the tea management to be more lenient since many times the government agencies face problems when it comes to the implementation of welfare schemes.”
Reflecting on the company’s enduring legacy, the garden management stated, “In 1845, Assam Company was awarded the Royal Charter by Her Majesty Queen Victoria. We take immense pride that one of our founding directors was Prince Dwarkanath Tagore, grandfather of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This legacy is a sacred trust we carry forward.”
With 14 tea gardens across Assam, the Assam Company (India) Limited continues to blend its historic legacy with modern innovation, maintaining its position as a cornerstone of India’s tea industry.
Also Read:
