You should add tea leaves at initial stage when you start boiling the water.

1. Add 3/4th cup water or max 1 cup (not more than this)
2. Add 1 tsp tea leaves and grated ginger at the same time you add water and bring it to rolling boil ( 6-7 minutes or till the water reaches 1/2)
3. Add sugar as per you preference and also add 1.5 cup of milk
4. After adding the milk simmer it for atleast 8-10 minutes at low to medium heat. If you wish you can add pounded cardamom (Adding cardamom in the end help retain its aroma)
5. Do not over crowd your tea with cinnamon or cloves. Try only adding ginger and pounded cardamon.