An Investigation on Livelihood Status of Tea Workers at Doldoli Tea Garden, Sylhet

Doldoli Tea Garden is situated in Sylhet Sadar Upazila of the Sylhet district and is one of the 163 tea gardens in Bangladesh. The purpose of the study was to investigate the livelihood status of tea workers at Doldoli. A field survey was conducted and 60 tea workers were chosen randomly. The study revealed almost half of the workers had no formal education (48.3% %). Regarding monthly income, 55% of workers earn only 4500-5500 Taka. Most of the workers gave positive attitudes toward getting living facilities like electricity, sanitation, medical care, and hygiene maintenance. Though most workers have job security they don’t have bank deposits (80%). A low percentage (only 40%) of workers know human rights. Maximum workers (70%) agreed that trade union is not playing their role properly. About 86.7% of the workers have no inclusion in politics. Homestead practices and livestock farming are done by workers for both family and selling purposes but to a lesser extent. The study revealed that low wages are the main problem of the workers (30% agreed) and the possible solution given by most of the workers was increasing the wages which was 36%. For elevating socioeconomic standards, tea garden workers’ daily wages should be prioritized appropriately. The study's findings can assist in understanding and improving the livelihood of the Doldoli tea workers through policy recommendations for government and stakeholders, and approaches aimed at promoting labor rights, education, health, and overall well-being.