Aid for jobless garden workers: Bengal government announces cash, rice assistance

The state BJP government has announced an ex-gratia payment for workers of closed tea gardens in north Bengal ahead of Durga Puja festivities.

Chief minister Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday said the state Cabinet has decided to provide financial assistance and additional food grains to over 19,000 jobless workers in closed tea estates.

“The assistance would be provided to workers who are below 60 years of age and live in tea estates that have been closed since January 1, 2023. Altogether, there are 19,524 workers in 21 such gardens,” he said.

“They receive 35 kilos of rice in a month, but ahead of the festivities, we will provide them with an additional 50 kilos of rice. Also, ₹5,000 would be transferred to the bank account of each of these workers. This is a gesture from our side,” Adhikari added.

A source said the decision would help the workers during the festive season as they do not get wages and thrive on odd jobs.

Raju Bista, the BJP MP of Darjeeling, has appreciated the state for extending help to these workers.

“I thank the chief minister for approving a special festive-season package to support workers of closed tea gardens. This timely support reflects the government’s commitment to standing by our tea garden families, particularly those facing economic hardship,” said Bista.

He also said the state is taking steps to expedite the reopening of closed tea estates. “We are hopeful that by this time around next year, all tea gardens will be fully operational,” the MP added.