The Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA) has initiated the annual bonus negotiation process for tea garden workers in North Bengal ahead of Durga Puja. A meeting notice has been issued to all stakeholders, including major trade unions, tea associations, and government representatives.
As per the official communication from CCPA convenor Amitangshu Chakraborty, the discussions for finalizing the Puja bonus for the 2024–25 accounting year will be held in two phases. A virtual meeting is scheduled for August 28 (Thursday) at 3 p.m, followed by physical meetings on September 6 and 7 (Saturday and Sunday) from 11 a.m. onwards at the Bengal Chamber of Commerce & Industry premises in Kolkata.
All trade unions representing tea workers across the Terai, Dooars, and Darjeeling hills have been invited to participate, along with representatives from industry bodies such as the Indian Tea Association (ITA), Tea Association of India (TAI), and Darjeeling Indian Tea Associations.
The Puja bonus remains a vital issue for more than three lakh tea garden workers in the region, who eagerly await a fair settlement ahead of the festive season. Last year’s bonus settlements witnessed tense negotiations amid demands for higher pay-outs.
The labour secretary and labour commissioner of West Bengal have also been informed of the meetings for oversight and facilitation.
Trade unions are expected to submit the names of their representatives for both virtual and in-person meetings to enable smooth coordination.