First certified organic tea garden in Nepal.
Welcome to KTE
Kanchanjangha Tea Estate & Research Centre (KTE) is located at Ranitar in the remote hilly region of Panchthar district in eastern Nepal bordering the tea area of Darjeeling at an altitude of 1300-1800m. The garden lies at the foot hills of Mt. Kanchenjunga which covers the largest vegetation area with a combination of unique blends of natural factors for the growth of exclusive aromatic tea. The enterprise was launched in 1984 by the local farmers on a cooperative model. Over a 100 farmers joined hands, pooled in their marginal land holdings and became owners of the first orthodox tea plantation covering nearly 94 hectares of land. The land which was barely enough to sustain them is now utilized to produce High Quality Organic Orthodox Tea of the Himalayas.
Environmental Protection
The Tea Estate meets the present demand for firewood and fodder from 20 hectares of forest land of its own. Vetiver (a plant that binds the soil ) is planted on both sides of the road and all farmers are also encouraged to plant Vetiver around their living quarters as it helps control soil erosion. It is also a source for extra income for them. Kalo Siris (Albezia Sinensis), Asuro (Adhatoda Vesica), Bakaino (Melia Azedarach), Khirro (Sapium Insigne), high in nutrients, are being planted in the garden. Training program for farmers are conducted regularly to develop their skills in IPM, (Integrated Pest Management) composting, environment protection etc. All young children are educated to care for mother EARTH and their society.
Certification of Organic
KTE has appointed NASAA (National Association of Sustainable Agriculture, Australia) accredited by IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement) as its Organic certifying agent according to European Union rules and regulations ECC 2091/92. The first inspection was carried out in 1995 and was recommended as "conversion to organic". NASAA certified the garden as ORGANIC from June1, 1997. According to the new Japanese regulations for organic products, MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) has authorized KTE to use the JAS (Japanese Agriculture Standard) mark.Similarly KTE was certified USDA-NOP in 2004. KTE was the pioneer member of Transfair Germany and was certified as FLO producers in 2003.