The Tea Board India (TBI) on May 13, 2026 issued revised guidelines and instructions for processing applications relating to change of ownership of tea gardens. Applicants are required to submit applications for licence through the Board’s online portal at Tea Board Online Portal along with prescribed documents and fees.
Under the revised framework, applicants must submit documents including the signed application form, original Tea Board registration certificate or indemnity bond for lost certificates, registered sale deed/transfer deed/court order/lease deed, organizational constitution documents, and other specified declarations. In cases where transfer documents are pending due to non-receipt of State Government approvals, the applicant may submit an indemnity bond, notarized agreement for sale, and proof of payment of land revenue. Special provisions have also been prescribed for cases involving receivers appointed by government authorities.
The guidelines further provide that change of ownership will be permitted only if outstanding dues payable to Tea Board have been cleared or are being regularly serviced. An application fee of Rs. 57,500 plus applicable GST is payable online through the portal. The revised guidelines have been made effective immediately and will apply to all new as well as pending applications.
