2026 is the International Year of the Women Farmer, and on the occasion of International Tea Day, we spoke with C. Chandramathi, a tea estate worker at Alton Estate, Horana Plantations PLC, in Sri Lanka. With more than 15 years in the plantation sector, Chandramathi today serves as Vice President of the estate’s Fairtrade Premium Committee.

In this conversation, she reflects on how she came to tea, what it means to be a woman in agriculture today, the challenges the sector faces, and what being part of Fairtrade has meant for her and her community.

How did you get started in farming?

I have been working in the plantation sector since 23rd April 2009, gaining over 15 years of experience. Currently, I serve as the Vice President of the FPC. I am living with my husband and our three daughters. One of my daughters is currently studying graphic design, while the other two are studying in Grade 9 and Grade 6.

When I began my journey as an estate worker, tea cultivation was a completely new experience for me. At the beginning, I learned the task of tea plucking under the guidance of senior workers and supervisors. Through daily work experience, I gradually improved my skills and gained confidence in my duties.

Today, I not only work as a labourer but also understand the importance of tea cultivation and its economic and social value. This experience is not just a job for me; it has become an important part of my life.

As 2026 marks the International Year of the Women Farmer, what does being a woman in agriculture mean today?

As 2026 is recognised as the International Year of Women Farmers, being a tea estate plucker brings me a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Women are considered the backbone of the tea industry, as the leaves we carefully pluck each day become the quality tea enjoyed around the world.

My day begins early in the morning, whether it is cold, rainy, or hot. I carry out my duties with dedication, carefully selecting and plucking each leaf. This is not just a routine job; it is a skill that requires patience, care, and commitment.

As a woman, working in this field comes with challenges; I balance both family responsibilities and work. Through my efforts, I support my family and help build a better future for my children.

Today, being a woman in agriculture represents independence, confidence and respect in society. Even our small efforts contribute to the country’s economy and global tea production. For me, being a tea plucker is not just a job; it is my identity and my pride.

What are the biggest challenges in farming?

Tea cultivation today faces several serious challenges. Among them, the most significant is climate change. Changes in rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and sudden heavy rains are affecting the natural growth of tea plants. As a result, both yield and leaf quality are being impacted.

In addition, labour shortage is increasing day by day. As the younger generation is less interested in entering the estate sector, the workload on existing workers continues to rise. As tea pluckers, we are often required to complete larger areas within the same working day. At the same time, we must also balance our family responsibilities.

However, these challenges do not stop us. Instead, our patience, determination and collective effort continue to sustain this industry. With proper training, technological advancement, and increased involvement of the younger generation, these challenges can be addressed, and the tea sector can be further improved.

Therefore, although the future of tea cultivation is filled with challenges, it is also full of hope and opportunities.

What improvements would help women farmers thrive further?

To support the progress of women farmers in the tea sector, integrated improvements across multiple areas are essential. First, continuous training and knowledge sharing are very important. Providing training on modern agricultural techniques and quality production methods can greatly enhance their skills.

In addition, digital literacy and access to information play a key role in women’s lives. Women should also be provided with easy access to credit facilities, savings programmes, and small business opportunities. This will help them become financially stronger and achieve self-reliance.

Similarly, access to children’s education and childcare support can reduce stress for women and allow them to focus fully on their work. Finally, women’s contributions should be appreciated, and efforts should be made to highlight them as role models. This will inspire the next generation.

What do you value most about being part of the Fairtrade system?

Being part of the Fairtrade system is something I deeply value and take great pride in. It is not just a trading system, but a people-centred approach that ensures fair value for our hard work.

For us who work daily in the estates, receiving a fair price helps improve our standard of living. The additional Fairtrade funds and support are invested in the development of our estate communities. These include important areas such as education, healthcare, clean drinking water, housing improvements, and women’s empowerment programmes.

As a woman worker, Fairtrade provides me with a sense of security and confidence. It gives us the assurance that our voices are heard and our needs are considered. It is a system that respects and values our labour. In addition, Fairtrade promotes environmental protection and sustainable farming practices, ensuring a better future for the next generation. Overall, being part of Fairtrade gives me social recognition, economic stability and hope for a better future

On International Tea Day, in the International Year of the Women Farmer, Chandramathi’s words are a reminder that behind every cup of tea are the skill, patience and resilience of the women who pluck it. Fairtrade NAPP thanks her for sharing her experience and continues to work alongside tea estate workers across the region so that their voices are heard and valued.