Assam's tea industry today hailed Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia's support to declare tea as a National Drink. Chairman of Assam Tea Planters' Association (ATPA), A R Kasera said that they welcome the Deputy Chairman's support and his assurance to take up the matter with the concerned Ministry. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi had also submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, during his recent visit to the state on April 20, regarding declarationof tea as the National Drink. Assam government has already declared tea as the National drink.