Abstract:
Tea (Camellia sinensis(L)0.Kuiitze) is an intensively managed perennial monoculture crop cultivated on large and small scale plantations situated between altitudes 4l'N and 16'S. Tea plants are attacked by several pests and diseases and also invaded by numerous species of weeds, which compete with tea plants for moisture and nutrients. Hence to augment the productivity of tea and to protect the plaiits froi i pests and diseases, it is necessary to adopt plant protection measure using synthetic chemicals. Tea is the secondly most consumed beverage in the world. Tea is considered as a ‘health beverage’ due to its antioxidant properties and resultant beneficial effects on human health. Such beverage should be free from toxic elements such as pesticide residues and heavy metals.
To obtain a clear idea about pesticide residues in tea, it is imponant to understand the situation about pests, pesticide usage and Integrated Pest management (IPM) strategies in leading tea growing countries. Also it has been recognized as important for all the stakeholders in the tea industry by Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)
/IntergovernmentaI Group on Tea (IGG).
