In this development, Assam's tea industry steps into an era marked by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technology.

In a groundbreaking move, the state of Assam has launched an AI and blockchain-powered digital tea auction platform. This initiative is set to modernize the tea industry, replacing outdated practices with real-time, transparent, and tamper-proof systems.

Backed by the North East Tea Association (NETA), the platform aims to revolutionize the tea trade by introducing automation and decentralization. Industry leaders have encouraged a phased rollout of the platform, starting with AI implementation before fully integrating blockchain.

The proposed AI tools will focus on automating tea grading, aiming to bring uniformity and reduce human error in quality assessments. This innovation could transform handwritten records and verbal negotiations into a digital, verifiable ledger, permanently accessible to all stakeholders.

The digital tea auction platform is being positioned as a democratizing force within the tea industry, empowering small tea growers. Traditionally at a disadvantage, these growers will now be able to directly engage in the market and receive fair value for their products. The platform is designed to streamline transactions, eliminate middlemen, and ensure fair pricing, particularly benefiting small growers.

Blockchain technology will provide a secure and immutable digital record of every transaction, ensuring traceability and reducing the potential for fraud. This transparency could enhance the region's global reputation for tea and offer unique experiences to visitors interested in the heritage of Indian brews.

The initiative is seen as a much-needed transformation in a sector that has remained largely unchanged since colonial times. With state support, industry collaboration, and emerging technologies, the future of Indian tea is being reshaped - not just with better flavour, but with smarter infrastructure.

In addition to modernizing the trading process, the Assam government has also introduced welfare-oriented measures for the tea sector. The state budget continues the exemption of green leaf cess, provides mobile creche and toilet facilities for plantation workers, and organizes health screening camps in tea gardens.

The government is also exploring how the new digital platform could support Assam's growing tea tourism sector. Tourists may soon have the ability to trace the origins of the tea they consume using blockchain verification, adding an exciting new dimension to their tea tasting experiences.

The person introduced as the advisor of the North East Tea Association and former vice president of the Tea Board of India is actively involved in the new AI and blockchain-based digital tea auction platform. His role in integrating advanced digital technologies is expected to play a significant part in transforming tea trading processes.

Suggestions have been made to improve domestic marketing efforts, including the idea of appointing a brand ambassador for Assam Tea to strengthen its national presence and appeal. This transparent storytelling approach could enhance the region's global reputation for tea and offer unique experiences to visitors interested in the heritage of Indian brews.

In conclusion, the launch of the digital tea auction platform marks a significant step forward for the tea industry in Assam. By embracing technology and transparency, the sector is poised to thrive in the 21st century, benefiting both small growers and consumers alike.