Kolkata: A major welfare initiative for tea garden workers has been announced with the implementation of the “Pradhan Mantri Chai Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSY)”, aimed at improving education, healthcare, and living conditions of tea garden labourers in North Bengal. The total financial allocation for the scheme stands at ₹313.30 crore.
The announcement was made following approval by the state-level committee responsible for the scheme’s execution.
Education Boost with ₹177 Crore Allocation
Under the Chai Shramik Shiksha Yojana, the largest share of funds—₹177 crore—has been allocated to strengthen educational infrastructure for tea garden workers’ families.
The focus will be on:
- Improving educational facilities in tea garden regions
- Enhancing quality of education for workers’ children
- Strengthening school infrastructure and learning resources
This initiative aims to reduce educational inequality in remote plantation areas.
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Healthcare Expansion with ₹72 Crore Investment
To improve medical access in tea garden areas, ₹72 crore has been earmarked under the Chai Shramik Health Security Scheme.
The funds will be used for:
- Expansion of healthcare services in tea garden regions
- Strengthening primary medical infrastructure
- Improving access to treatment and preventive healthcare
The objective is to ensure better health security for workers and their families.
₹63 Crore for Modern Shelter Facilities
Under the Chai Shramik Awas Yojana, ₹63 crore has been allocated for developing modern rest shelters for tea garden workers.
A total of 321 new rest sheds will be constructed, including:
- 88 shelters in hilly areas
- 233 shelters in plains
These shelters will include modern amenities such as:
- Solar energy systems
- Clean drinking water facilities
- Seating arrangements
- Sanitary toilets with ceramic flooring
Implementation Through North Bengal Development Department
The responsibility for implementing the scheme has been assigned to the North Bengal Development Department.
The department will coordinate with:
- Health Department
- Paschim Banga Samagra Shiksha Mission
- District administrations
This multi-agency approach is aimed at ensuring effective and timely execution of welfare projects in tea garden regions.
Focus on Improving Living Standards of Tea Garden Workers
The initiative is expected to significantly improve the socio-economic conditions of tea garden workers by addressing key gaps in education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure.
Officials stated that the programme reflects a long-term commitment to the welfare of plantation workers and their families.
With an investment of ₹313.30 crore, the PMCSY scheme marks a comprehensive welfare push for tea garden communities in North Bengal, focusing on sustainable improvements in education, health services, and living conditions.
