Tea Research Association Warns of Devastating Greenfly Attacks Reducing Tea Yields by 55% in Assam and Bengal

The Tea Research Association (TRA) has raised concerns about greenfly attacks affecting tea crops in Assam and West Bengal, emerging as a major threat over the past two years. The sap-sucking insects have caused significant damage to tea plants during dry months, reducing yields by up to 55% in some areas. Infestations are particularly devastating during the May-July second flush period, when gardens earn over 30% of annual revenues. Officials expressed concerns about possible invasion of modified or aggressive greenfly strains near international borders, with one former Tea Board official suggesting potential bio-aggression in the northeastern zone requiring investigation.