Assam will host India’s first decaffeinated black tea factory in Dibrugarh, utilising an indigenous CSIR-NEIST process that removes up to 95% of the caffeine while preserving the flavour, aroma, and health properties. CSIR marked its 84th Foundation Day by launching the technology and transferring it to Jalan Investments and Gangwal Healthcare, with commissioning targeted for early next year.
What’s happening
A first-of-its-kind decaffeinated black tea facility is being set up in Assam, marking a major value-addition milestone for India’s tea industry. The factory will process Assam black tea to remove most naturally occurring caffeine without compromising its signature taste and benefits.
Who’s behind it
The decaffeination technology was developed by CSIR–NEIST, Jorhat, and formally unveiled during CSIR’s 84th Foundation Day proceedings in New Delhi. CSIR-NEIST’s team was led by Dr Bipul Das under the guidance of Director V Tewari, with technology transfer executed to Jalan Investments Pvt Ltd, Dibrugarh, and Gangwal Healthcare Pvt Ltd, Mumbai.
Where and when
Jalan Investments will establish the decaffeinated tea factory at South Jalan Nagar tea estate in Dibrugarh, with operations aimed to begin early next year. Gangwal Healthcare will set up a green-process caffeine extraction plant in Tinsukia to convert tea waste into pharmaceutical-grade caffeine.
How the tech works
The indigenous method removes up to 95% of caffeine from black tea while maintaining the beverage’s flavour, aroma, and broader health attributes, addressing a longstanding technology gap in India. CSIR-NEIST officials said Assam black tea now lets drinkers enjoy an almost caffeine-free cup without losing quality
Why it matters
Global demand for decaffeinated and wellness teas is rising, with the decaf tea market estimated at $2.5 billion in 2025 and projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2033 at a 7% CAGR. The initiative could open premium export channels, create new value chains, and support revenues for estates and smallholders through value-added production in Assam.
Official launch
Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh released India’s first indigenous decaffeinated black tea at the CSIR Super Model Store during the 84th CSIR Day celebrations at Dilli Haat. The event also marked the formal transfer of the technology to two industry partners in the presence of senior CSIR leadership.
What’s next
The Dibrugarh factory will start up early, and the planned caffeine-extraction unit in Tinsukia will further position Assam to lead India’s decaf tea value chain end-to-end.. As science and tradition converge, the state’s tea sector could redefine evening-friendly brews for domestic and global consumers alike.
Source: Internet
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.