The correct option is 2 only.
Explanation
Tea is a significant beverage crop introduced in India by the British. It is a labor-intensive plantation crop that thrives in tropical and sub-tropical climates under specific soil and weather conditions.
Statement 1 is Incorrect. Tea bushes require well-drained soil; they cannot tolerate waterlogging. This is why tea is predominantly cultivated on hill slopes where water drains easily. Additionally, the soil must be rich in humus and organic matter, not low in content.
Statement 2 is Correct. Tea requires a warm and moist frost-free climate throughout the year. Frequent showers evenly distributed over the year are essential for the continuous growth of tender leaves. The ideal temperature range is generally 20°C to 30°C.
Statement 3 is Incorrect. While the tea industry faces challenges regarding high labor costs and labor shortages, the aggregate area under tea plantations is not shrinking. In fact, the area under tea cultivation in major producing nations like India has seen an increase over the years, largely driven by the expansion of the small tea grower sector.
Key Takeaway: Tea cultivation strictly requires well-drained, humus-rich slopes and a warm, humid climate with heavy but well-distributed rainfall. Stagnant water is detrimental to the crop.