Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada, in collaboration with Rimpocha and Tea Promoters India Ltd., will host a Two-Day International Conference on “Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, Life, and Legacy — A multidisciplinary exploration of place, people and possibility.” The event will take place on 27–28 March 2026, bringing together scholars, industry leaders, and community voices to celebrate and reimagine the legacy of Darjeeling Tea.
Conference Coordinator Dr Tomy Augustine, Rector of Salesian College Siliguri, said, “This international gathering aims to celebrate Darjeeling Tea not only as a global commodity but as a cultural heritage, ecological resource, and community lifeline.”
Former Rector of Salesian College Sonada, Dr Augustine added, “By weaving together research, industry insights, and lived experiences, the conference seeks to chart new possibilities for sustainability, identity, and legacy in the tea sector.”
The event will open on March 27 with welcome remarks by Fr. Johny Nedungatt, Rector, and Fr. Dr Babu Joseph, Principal, Salesian College Siliguri and Sonada. The inaugural program will feature cultural performances and addresses by distinguished guests, including: Mr. Binod Mohan, Chairman, Tea Promoters India (Presidential Address); Mr. Subodip Roy, Chairman, Asha Tea Company; Mr. Chandra Shekhar Ghose, Chairman, Bandhan Group; Dr. Suborno Bose, IIHM Kolkata; Mr. Rajah Banerjee, Chairman, Rimpocha and T’Classic Darjeeling Pvt. Ltd. (Keynote Address)
Technical Sessions
• Over two days, parallel sessions will cover themes such as Tea and Literature—exploring plantation politics, storytelling, and cultural memory.
• Tea and Communities — highlighting Jesuit and Salesian engagement with tea workers.
• Environment and Tea — sustainability models, EU quality standards, and alternative livelihoods.
• Gender, Labour, and Tea — addressing migration, women’s agency, and collective empowerment.
• Media and Tea — examining communication strategies and the role of media in shaping Darjeeling Tea’s global image.
The second day will feature a plenary session moderated by Fr. Dr K. L. George SJ, with speakers Prof. Mahendra P. Lama and Padma Shri Dr Eklavya Sharma. A special panel discussion moderated by Mr Rajah Banerjee will bring together experts, including Dr Puran Kumar Sharma and Yangkee Colitas.
The conference will conclude with a Valedictory Address by Mr Jeevan Prakash Gurung, Wholetime Director, Tea Promoters India.