New machine to pluck tea leaves

A new machine has been introduced for efficient plucking of tea leaves.

 The industry is facing many problems due to the shortage of skilled labour.  The Tea Research Institute has been able to find a solution for this problem through new technology. Senior Research Officer of the Sri Lanka Tea Research Institute Dr. M.A. Wijeratne said that a single worker can pluck a higher amount of tea leaves through the use of the machine. It has also increased the income of the workers. He expressed hope that all tea estates will start using this machine.

The workers also say that the introduction of the new basket has provided them more convenience.

This worker said that a new system is  introduced after a gap of 20 years. Their monthly income is now around 18,000 rupees. It is a reason for their entire family to be happy.

She said that time is saved as tea leaves can be quickly plucked. Their hands used to get  discoloured. Now that problem is also solved.

The revenue of the tea estates have increased due to the efficiency in plucking the leaves.

Superintendent of Walton Estate said that tea leaves fetch a good price and the income of the workers has increased.