Q1. [5] medium exam-ready
Describe the geographical conditions required for the growth of tea in India. Also name any four major tea-producing states. (3+2=5)
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 13:31 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Geographical Conditions for Tea Cultivation:
- Climate: Tea grows well in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Tea bushes require a warm, moist, and frost-free climate throughout the year.
- Rainfall: Frequent showers evenly distributed over the year are essential to ensure continuous growth of tender leaves.
- Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained soil rich in humus and organic matter is required.
- Labour: Tea is a labour-intensive industry; it requires abundant, cheap, and skilled labour. Tea is processed within the tea garden to retain its freshness.
Four Major Tea-Producing States:
- Assam
- West Bengal (Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts)
- Tamil Nadu
- Kerala
Source: Major Crops, Chapter 4
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Explanation
- The 3-mark part covers geographical conditions — aim for at least 4 clear points (climate, rainfall, soil, labour). Each point should be distinct and use textbook language.
- The 2-mark part only needs four states named correctly — no elaboration required.
- Do not mix up conditions for tea with those for coffee or rubber. Examiners look for "frost-free," "evenly distributed rainfall," and "well-drained soil rich in humus" as key phrases.