Dharamshala, Feb. 24 -- The tea industry in Himachal Pradesh has been grappling with challenges posed by climate change and changing weather patterns, with annual production declining again in 2025.

According to the details shared by Tea Board India officials, the hill state's tea output dropped to 8.8 lakh kg in 2025. It had produced nearly 9 lakh kg in 2024, a sharp fall from over 11 lakh kg recorded in 2023. In 2025, tea plucking began on a weak note in April following a dry winter season in the state. Tea growers have expressed concern over changing weather patterns and their adverse impact on cultivation.

In Himachal, tea is primarily grown in Kangra district, and the crop is largely rain-fed with limited irrigation facilities. Kan...