Sarah Besky, “The Darjeeling Distinction: Labor and Justice on Fair-Trade Plantations in India” (U of California Press, 2014)

Sarah Besky, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, dives into the intricate world of Darjeeling tea plantations. She discusses the harsh realities faced by tea pickers and critiques fair trade practices, revealing their limits in addressing systemic labor exploitation. Besky explores the historical evolution of Darjeeling from a colonial retreat to a modern tea hub, highlighting the socio-political implications of its production. She also examines the significance of geographical indication, contrasting romanticized views of tea with the authentic struggles of its laborers.