Consider the following States: 1. Andhra Pradesh 2. Kerala 3. Himachal Pradesh 4. Tripura. How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?

1. Andhra Pradesh – Tea is grown in limited pockets such as Araku Valley, but it is not generally listed among India’s tea-producing States in standard UPSC-oriented geography sources. Verdict: Not counted here.

2. Kerala – Kerala is a major tea-producing State, especially around Munnar and the High Ranges. Verdict: Correct.

3. Himachal Pradesh – Himachal Pradesh is known for tea cultivation in the Kangra Valley. Verdict: Correct.

4. Tripura – Tripura is a recognized tea-producing State in northeast India. Verdict: Correct.

Thus, three States are generally known as tea-producing States in the conventional UPSC sense: Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Tripura. Hence (c) Only three States.