Promotion And Development of Tea Tourism Infrastructure

Assam government launched Promotion And Development of Tea Tourism Infrastructure (PDTTI) scheme to help private tea garden owners turn their heritage estates into proper tourist destinations. The scheme gives money support for building modern amenities and restoring iconic bungalows, which helps local employment and rural tourism in the state. Applications under the scheme are accepted by the Assam Tourism Department for eligible tea gardens as of August 2026.

Promotion And Development of Tea Tourism Infrastructure - Introduction

The scheme is run by the government of Assam to improve the tourist experience inside the green landscapes of its tea gardens. By upgrading heritage bungalows with modern comforts, the scheme turns historic estates into premium tourism hubs that can attract both Indian and foreign travelers.

Assam tea estates hold great potential that remains largely unused. Their lush greenery, rich cultural heritage, and iconic architecture can draw global travelers and bring in good revenue. The scheme works in a mission-mode way to develop about 50 selected gardens into top tourism destinations, encouraging environmental care and regional economic growth.

Beyond looks, the scheme pushes active visitor engagement through nature trekking, professional tea-tasting sessions, factory visits, and hands-on leaf plucking experiences. It works on a need-based model where site development can include:

The government follows a 50:50 sharing pattern, with a support ceiling of up to ₹2 crore as the government share. Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) looks after the rollout, while the State Level Committee (SLC) keeps an eye on the whole process.

Government funds are released in three milestone-based installments:

To get the final payment, one needs to provide project photographs, geo-tagging data, and a 100% work-completion report certified by the site engineer.

Key Information

Benefits

This scheme helps tea garden operators refresh their estates and use a growing tourism market. Main benefits include:

• Upgrading old infrastructure into modern tourist amenities, which makes each estate more appealing to visitors.
• Encouraging private sector entry in hospitality within the tea belt.
• Bringing local traditions, dress, and handicrafts into the tourism experience to support the rural economy.
• Showing the diverse cultural heritage of the Tea Tribes to a worldwide audience.
• Creating steady income opportunities for local youth and estate workers.
• Improving tourism circuits with golf, trekking, and nature trails.

Eligibility

To keep high standards for guests, the scheme follows clear selection criteria:

• One should be a private tea garden company or an authorized garden owner.
• If operating on a lease, one must have a minimum of 15 years left on the lease from the date of application.
• Heritage properties and gardens larger than 50 hectares (25 hectares for hill districts) receive preference.
• The garden should be free from legal disputes, encroachment, or industrial pollution.
• Estates near wildlife sanctuaries, reserved forests, or national parks are given priority.
• Garden workers get preference for the employment roles created by this scheme.

Application Process

The application process for this scheme is explained below in steps.

STEP 1 - Stay informed by watching daily newspapers and electronic media for ATDC advertisements about the scheme.

STEP 2 - Submit the application in the prescribed format to the Managing Director, ATDC, Guwahati, along with the required documents.

STEP 3 - Present the proposed infrastructure plan and estimated costs to the Selection Committee so they can understand the project.

STEP 4 - The State Level Committee (SLC) will examine the proposal closely for approval.

STEP 5 - ATDC officials will carry out a physical inspection of the proposed site to check whether the project is feasible.

STEP 6 - Once approved by the SLC, the applicant receives an official notice to begin the project work.

For the latest details, check the official Assam Tourism portal.

Documents

Keep the following documents ready before applying so the process goes smoothly:

• Identity proof such as Voter ID, PAN, and Aadhaar card.
• A site roadmap and a self-contained proposal detailing the planned tourist infrastructure.
• No Objection Certificate from the local Circle Officer or DC.
• Police Verification Report.
• Land records including certified copies of deeds or lease agreements.
• Financial health documents, including audited balance sheets for the last five years.
• A non-refundable Demand Draft of ₹5000 in favor of the Managing Director, ATDC.
• Site photographs and a formal undertaking to follow the scheme rules.

References

Guidelines and Application Form | Assam Department of Tourism | Official Assam Tourism Portal

FAQ's

What is the main scope of this scheme?

The scheme helps tea garden owners create immersive tourism experiences like nature walks, tea-tasting, and factory tours, while offering top-tier accommodation in renovated heritage bungalows.

Are there specific activities encouraged for tourists?

Yes, activities like tea leaf plucking, golfing, nature trekking, rafting, and local cultural experiences are strongly encouraged.

Who qualifies as an eligible beneficiary?

Private tea garden owners or leaseholders with at least 15 years left on their lease may apply.

Is there a preference for specific types of gardens?

Yes, iconic heritage gardens, those with existing facilities like golf courses, and gardens near national parks or wildlife sanctuaries are given priority.

How will the government monitor progress?

Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) conducts physical inspections, and the State Level Committee (SLC) keeps check of all financial and operational activities.

How can one identify the members of the State Level Committee?

The SLC includes the senior-most Secretary as Chairman, along with the Tourism Secretary, Industries Secretary, Director of Tourism, and the Managing Director of ATDC.