Ensure a Decent Daily Wage for Tea Workers

Dear Sir,

Tea workers in Bangladesh continue to live in poverty despite their vital contribution to the tea industry. Their daily wage of Tk187 cannot cover basic food, healthcare and other living expenses. Workers recently rejected a proposed 5 per cent increase, which would raise their daily wage to just Tk196, and demanded a minimum of Tk500.

Amid rising living costs, thousands struggle to support their families on less than Tk5, 000 a month. Many also live in overcrowded settlements with inadequate sanitation, clean drinking water and healthcare facilities. These conditions undermine their health, dignity and future prospects.

I urge the government to ensure fair wage negotiations and introduce regular adjustments linked to inflation. Tea estate owners must recognise that decent wages are an investment in workers’ wellbeing and productivity, not merely a business expense. No industry can progress sustainably while its workforce remains trapped in poverty.

Shahadat Sarkar
Student, Department of Islamic History and Culture
University of Dhaka