Biratnagar, June 15 -- Nepal's tea industry has plunged into a severe crisis following the introduction of new quality-testing requirements by the Tea Board of India, bringing exports to a standstill and forcing dozens of factories in the eastern districts of Ilam and Jhapa to shut down.

Fifty-three tea factories in Ilam have ceased operations, while 30 factories in Jhapa have announced plans to suspend production within a few days. Industry representatives warn that the closures could jeopardise the livelihoods of thousands of workers and farmers dependent on the sector.

In Jhapa alone, around 20,000 workers and farmers rely on the tea industry for their income.

Following the export disruption, 53 factories in Suryodaya Municipality d...