Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, former international badminton player, has been selected to represent the Karnataka State Masters Badminton team at the Yonex- Sunrise 48th Indian Masters Badminton Championships to be held at Goa from Mar. 18 to 25.
Arun recently emerged victorious in the men’s singles and mixed doubles during the selection tournament.
Arun Poovaiah will also participate in the doubles category directly on the basis of national ranking.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / February 19th, 2026
Olympic medallist Vijender Singh and tennis star Rohan Bopanna will flag off the 11th Cognizant New Delhi Marathon at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday. Over 30,000 runners from 31 countries are expected to participate across full, half, 10K and 5K categories. The event, recognised by AFI and World Athletics, also serves as an Asian Games qualifier.
Olympic medallist boxer Vijender Singh and the country’s ace tennis player Rohan Bopanna will flag off the 11th edition of the Cognizant New Delhi Marathon from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Sunday.
With over 30,000 participants expected to take part, the marathon is set to be one of the largest sporting events in the country.
Certified as a National Marathon by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and acknowledged by World Athletics, the event continues to strengthen its position on the global athletic calendar.
This edition of the event has attracted participants from 31 countries, 490 cities, and 32 states and Union Territories of India.
The event will be held in four categories — full marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K.
India will be represented by an elite contingent, which includes Anish Thapa, A.B. Belliappa, Man Singh, Akshay Saini, T. Gopi, Bhagirathi Bisht, Nirmaben Thakor Bharatjee, Ashwini Madan Jadhav, Disket Dolma, and Stanzin Dolkar.
The marathon also serves as a qualifying race for the upcoming Asian Games.
Inclusivity and Social Impact
In a step towards greater inclusivity, the marathon will host approximately 20 visually-impaired athletes, reaffirming its commitment to creating an accessible and empowering sporting platform.
The event has also raised Rs 10 lakh, which has been contributed to the AFI as support for its junior development programs to help in strengthening grassroots athletics in the country.
“The New Delhi Marathon is not just a race; it’s a celebration of human spirit, perseverance, and unity. We are proud to witness such incredible global participation and to continue fostering an inclusive and inspiring event. Our goal is to create a platform where every runner — from elite athletes to first-timers — can push their limits and be part of something much larger than themselves,” said Nagaraj Adiga, Race Director & CMD, NEB Sports.
Rajesh Varrier, President – Global Operations and Chairman and Managing Director of Cognizant India added: “The participation of elite runners at the New Delhi Marathon reinforces its stature as one of the leading long-distance events in Asia and inspires every runner to push their limits.
AFI treasurer, Stanley Jones said the event is a perfect platform for country’s long-distance runners to make a mark.
“The National Marathon serves as a premier platform for India’s elite long-distance runners. With only the highest-performing athletes qualifying to represent the nation at events such as the Asian Games, competitions of this stature play a crucial role in identifying and preparing top talent,” he said.
Sustainability Initiatives
The marathon continues its strong focus on environmental responsibility by implementing comprehensive waste segregation, promoting recycling across the venue, partnering with environmental organisations and local authorities and encouraging greener practices among participants.
(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and auto-generated from an agency feed.)
source: http://www.freepressjournal.in / The Free Press Journal / Home> Sports / by PTI / February 20th, 2026
India’s rich coffee heritage took center stage at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, where global leaders and tech CEOs sampled the country’s GI-tagged coffees.
At the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, alongside discussions on artificial intelligence and global collaboration, another distinctly Indian story brewed quietly but powerfully. The Commerce Ministry unveiled the Bharat GI Coffee Lounge, showcasing India’s exclusive Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged coffees.
Leaders including Google’s Sundar Pichai and OpenAI’s Sam Altman sampled these varieties, with Pichai himself praising the Malabar Arabica.
The showcase highlighted how India’s coffee heritage, rooted in specific regions and traditions, is now being positioned as a global brand.
Chikmagalur Coffee: Often called the birthplace of coffee in India, Chikmagalur in Karnataka is where the first coffee beans were planted centuries ago. The GI tag recognizes its unique flavour profile – smooth, mildly acidic, and aromatic. Chikmagalur coffee is prized for its balanced taste, making it a favorite among connoisseurs who prefer a class
Bababudangiris Coffee: Named after the revered Sufi saint Baba Budan, who is said to have introduced coffee to India, this variety comes from the Baba Budangiri hills in Karnataka. It is known for its full-bodied flavour, with notes of chocolate and spice. The GI tag ensures that this historic and culturally significant coffee is protected and celebrated worldwide.
Coorg Coffee: Coorg, also in Karnataka, is famous for its lush plantations and distinctive coffee. Coorg coffee is rich, bold, and slightly bitter, often described as earthy with a lingering finish. The GI tag highlights its regional authenticity, and it remains one of the most exported Indian coffees.
Wayanad Coffee: From Kerala’s Wayanad district comes a coffee that thrives in the Western Ghats’ biodiversity. Wayanad coffee is smooth, with fruity undertones and a gentle acidity. The GI tag emphasizes its eco-friendly cultivation practices, often grown alongside spices, which add subtle complexity to its flavour.
Araku Valley Coffee: Produced by tribal farmers in Andhra Pradesh’s Araku Valley, this coffee is celebrated for its organic cultivation and social impact. Araku coffee is mild, with floral notes and a clean finish. The GI tag not only protects its identity but also supports the livelihoods of indigenous communities, making it a symbol of sustainable agriculture.
Monsooned Malabar Coffee: Though not always listed among the original five, Monsooned Malabar from Kerala and Karnataka has become iconic. Beans are exposed to monsoon winds, swelling and mellowing to produce a unique, low-acid, heavy-bodied coffee with a distinctive flavor. Sundar Pichai’s approving sip at the AI Summit brought this variety into the global spotlight.
source: http://www.news18.com / News18 / Home> Showsha> English edition / curated by Sujata Singh / eidted by Priyanka Das / February 20th, 2026
The Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, nestled in the lush landscapes of Coorg, is a pioneering example of sustainable luxury. Developed by Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)under its ESG+ framework, the resort is a perfect blend of environmental conservation, community development, and responsible operations. Built within a sprawling 180-acre rainforest, the resort stands as a testament to IHCL’s commitment to long-term ecological stewardship.
Eco-Conscious Construction Practices
One of the standout features of Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa is its eco-conscious construction. The development process took seven years, with a firm commitment to preserving the natural surroundings. Remarkably, not a single tree was cut down during construction. The resort was built on just 30 acres of land, with careful attention to maintaining the land’s natural contours. Pathways were created without leveling the terrain, and excavated soil was repurposed to form a freshwater lake. This lake now serves multiple purposes, from supporting aquatic life to attracting migratory birds and aiding in rainwater harvesting.
The resort also employed innovative construction techniques to reduce environmental impact. Compressed stabilised earth blocks were produced on-site from displaced soil, which were then sun-dried rather than baked, significantly lowering emissions and leaving a minimal construction footprint.
Thriving Biodiversity and Environmental Integrity
The resort’s commitment to environmental integrity is evident in its thriving biodiversity. Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa is home to 310 species of birds, 68 species of butterflies, 79 species of mammals, and 32 species of frogs. The resort boasts an impressive Air Quality Index consistently below 3, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for both guests and wildlife. Additionally, the property has maintained a plastic-free environment, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable practices.
A unique feature of the resort is its Batracharium, which was established after identifying frog species found on the property. Guests can learn about the region’s ecological richness through guided tours with in-house naturalists. The resort also offers a Biodiversity Photography Club, where both associates and guests are encouraged to capture and appreciate the natural heritage of the resort.
Immersive Nature Experiences for Guests
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa offers its guests a unique opportunity to engage deeply with nature. Guided forest walks, led by in-house naturalists, provide guests with a chance to explore the rich flora and fauna of the surrounding rainforest. A Butterfly Park, honey cultivation with 32 active bee colonies , and pottery sessions using natural materials all encourage a deeper connection with the environment.
The resort also highlights the Kodava culture through its heritage conservatory, which celebrates the region’s traditions while connecting cultural preservation with ecological sustainability.
Sustainable Operations and Resource Efficiency
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa’s commitment to sustainability extends to its daily operations. Public spaces within the resort are naturally ventilated, reducing the reliance on air-conditioning and lowering energy consumption. Natural lighting is maximized, while LED lights and low-wattage outdoor illumination are used to minimize energy use and protect nocturnal species in the area.
The resort goes a step further by treating and reusing all of its wastewater for irrigation and flushing. Over the past two years, more than 84% of the resort’s electricity has been sourced from wind energy. This energy-efficient approach aligns with the resort’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting renewable energy initiatives.
Electric Mobility: A Step Towards Zero Emissions
Continuing its sustainability efforts, the resort has recently introduced electric mobility on its estate. After extensive trials to adapt the vehicles to the resort’s challenging terrain, the resort replaced its petrol-driven gypsies with Tata Punch electric vehicles (EVs). These zero-emission vehicles not only reduce the environmental impact but also minimize noise and disturbance to the wildlife. The resort’s focus on safety has led to the installation of reinforced bars, non-slip flooring, transparent rain covers, and weather-resistant interiors, ensuring accessibility for all guests, particularly the elderly.
Community Engagement and Local Development
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa’s impact extends beyond environmental conservation to community development. More than 31% of the resort’s associates come from neighbouring villages, supporting local employment and skill development. The resort also works closely with artisans and regional producers, ensuring that economic benefits flow into the surrounding community.
The resort’s commitment to community engagement is an integral part of its business model, helping to uplift local communities while promoting responsible tourism practices.
Global Recognition for Sustainable Tourism
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa’s dedication to environmental and community stewardship has earned it global recognition. The resort has been awarded the EarthCheck Gold Certification, a testament to its leadership in responsible tourism and its commitment to sustainable practices. This prestigious certification highlights the resort’s ongoing efforts to minimize its environmental impact while providing a luxury experience rooted in nature.
Conclusion: A Model for Eco-Friendly Luxury Tourism
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg, sets a new standard for eco-friendly luxury tourism. With its focus on sustainable construction, thriving biodiversity, resource efficiency, and community development, the resort offers an unparalleled experience for guests seeking to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of luxury. Recognized globally for its commitment to responsible tourism, the resort remains a beacon of sustainability in the hospitality industry.
source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / TTW / Home> Hotels and Resorts> India / February 17th, 2026
Nestled amid the quiet greenery of Suntikoppa in Somwarpet taluk of Kodagu district, a Jain Shwetambar temple is steadily taking shape at Hardoor village in Gundugutti Nakur — a location believed to be closely linked to ancient Jain settlements in the region.
The temple, named Sri Jirawala Tirth Dham Coorg, is ambitious both in scale and design. About 80 per cent of the construction has been completed and work is now underway to install the elaborately carved gopura.
Architecturally, the temple draws inspiration from the revered Sri Jirawala Parshwanath Jain Tirth in Rajasthan, one of Jainism’s most important pilgrimage centres.
The temple project is being executed by Sri Om Shanti Charitable Trust, under the guidance of Jain Gurus Acharya Nayachandra Sagar and Dr. Ajit Chandra Sagar. Beyond being a place of worship, the Trust envisions the complex as a centre for meditation, learning and spiritual tourism.
Spread across 6.15 acres, the temple premises include an ornate entrance, a reception area and around 14 cottages for pilgrims. A prayer hall and a Bhojanalaya form part of the complex.
The main temple structure occupies about half an acre, with the sanctum sanctorum measuring 80 x 60 feet. The gopura of the main shrine will rise to a height of 70 feet. The sanctum sanctorum will house five idols, while two smaller temples forming the outer structure will have two more idols. The idol of Sri Saraswathi Matha has already been installed in one of the outer temples.
Exquisite idols, intricate carvings
A highlight of the complex is the 84-inch Saraswathi Matha idol, carved out of black basalt stone using four distinct styles — Pallu, Pala, Hoysala and Chanda. The idol features miniature carvings of Goddess Ganika, Gautama Buddha and protective soldiers, all executed with remarkable detail.
Another outer temple houses the equally striking 84-inch Sri Padmavathi Matha idol, carved in Pallu, Pala and Hoysala styles. This idol is unique to Jain temples, as the Devi’s head is formed by 108 Nagas, each intricately sculpted, including the head of the snake god itself. The Devi is also depicted with 108 hands, each holding a weapon, all carved with precision.
The Saraswathi Matha idol will be placed on the right side of the main temple, while the Padmavathi Matha idol will occupy the left.
White Jirawala Parshwanath idol
At the heart of the sanctum sanctorum, a five-foot white idol of Sri Jirawala Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankara, seated in padmasana posture, will be installed.
Currently, a miniature idol has been placed for prayer purposes. Apart from this, the idols of Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara, Adinatha, the first Tirthankara, Shanthinatha, the 16th Tirthankara and Bhagwan Mahaveer, the 24th Tirthankara, will be installed.
The construction of Rs. 50 crore temple began in March 2020 and has progressed steadily over past five years.
Though this temple follows the structural layout of Rajasthan shrine, the Kodagu Jain temple project is distinctive in its blend of South and North Indian architectural traditions. It combines the art forms of Pallu, Pala, Chanda and Hoysala, with the Hoysala style, which is native to Karnataka, forming the core design.
The deep-rooted Jain history
Those associated with the project point out that Anjanageri Bettageri, part of an ancient mountain range extending up to Kushalnagar, has yielded Jain scriptures, basadis and settlement traces dating back over 1,000 years. The Trust maintains that the area once hosted thriving Jain communities, making it a natural site for reviving Jain religious presence.
Jainism has deep roots in Kodagu, particularly between the 10th and 12th centuries under the Kongalvas. Mulluru near Shanivarasanthe remains a prominent Jain centre, with three 11th-century basadis — dedicated to Parshwanatha, Shanthinatha and Chandranatha — built in the Ganga-Chola style. Kodagu’s location also holds strategic importance. According to Tourism Department estimates, nearly five lakh Jain tourists visit Mysuru and Kodagu every year.
Craftsmanship and community
More than 40 professional sculptors from Odisha are involved in carving the temple, using marble stone sourced from Odisha. The work combines traditional hand carving with modern machinery.
Intricate motifs of elephants, horses, lions, peacocks and other figures adorn the structure. Beyond religious worship, the complex is being developed as a meditation and study centre, reflecting Jain values of learning, discipline and non-violence. A meditation hall is already functional, with devotees gathering regularly for prayers and reflection. The structure has now reached the gopura level, with frames ready and installation expected to begin in the coming weeks.
The on-site cottages allow pilgrims from Bengaluru, Mysuru and other regions to stay comfortably, with food and basic amenities provided. Despite ongoing construction, an estimated one lakh devotees have visited the site over the past five years. The Trust also has plans for further expansion, including a Goshala. The project is being overseen by Sevak Bhavesh Parekh, along with Trustees Praveen Jain of Mysuru and Vimal Jain of Kushalnagar.
[As Told to B.C. Thimmaiah]
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by P.V Akshay – as told to B. C. Thimmaiah / February 16th, 2026
On 2018, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the Orange-Finned or Humpback Mahseer as ‘Critically Endangered.’
Yet, in the protected stretches of the River Cauvery in Kodagu, the species is found in abundance, thanks to the efforts of Coorg Wildlife Society (CWS) and the family of Chendanda S. Ponnappa and his son Chendanda P. Aiyappa. Mahseer conservation in Cauvery has a history that goes back nearly four decades. It began in 1985, when Ponnappa, a member of CWS, asserted at a meeting that Mahseer still thrived in the Cauvery at Dubare and Valnoor.
At the time, doubts were raised about the fish’s presence in the river. To settle the debate, Ponnappa landed a 44-kg Mahseer in July 1985 at Valnoor, conclusively proving that the iconic fish — known locally as ‘Bommeen’ or ‘Boltha Meen’ in Kodava Thakk and ‘Bilimeenu’ in Kannada — was very much alive in the river. The Cauvery is home to Golden, Silver and Black Mahseer.
The river watchers who keep an eye on illegal fishing and other activities that are detrimental to Mahseer conservation.
That single act marked the beginning of organised Mahseer conservation in Kodagu. Soon after, the Coorg Wildlife Society approached the Fisheries Department, which leased a 25-kilometre stretch of the Cauvery, from Siddapur Bridge to Kushalnagar Bridge, to the Society in 1985 and declared it a protected zone for Mahseer.
The move was accompanied by wide publicity against destructive fishing practices such as dynamiting, the use of nets, copper sulphate poisoning and even poisoning with wild fruits, methods that were rampant at the time and posed a serious threat to aquatic life. Once the lease was handed over, such practices were completely banned and strict enforcement followed.
Equally significant was the crackdown on riverbank encroachments. After the declaration of the Mahseer protected zone, previously unreported encroachments were identified and cleared. “The CWS deserves full credit for making the riverbanks along the protected stretch encroachment-free,” Aiyappa told Star of Mysore.
Science-backed conservation model
C.S. Ponnappa oversaw the conservation operations in the initial years, laying the foundation for what would later evolve into a science-backed conservation model. Subsequent studies established that the Humpback Mahseer, endemic to the Cauvery, is among the largest freshwater fish in India, growing up to 63-kg.
“For nearly 20 years, the CWS successfully protected the original 25-km stretch. Encouraged by the results, the Fisheries Department later extended our responsibility to a nearly 100-km stretch of the Cauvery from Bethri Bridge to Kushalnagar and the Barapole River. While we managed and protected about 95-km for a decade, logistical challenges forced us to withdraw from Barapole,” Aiyappa revealed.
“Conservation along the Bethri-Kushalnagar stretch also proved difficult due to dense coffee estates on either side and the influx of a floating population. Eventually, efforts were refocused on the original stretch between Siddapur and Kushalnagar,” he said.
“Over the past decade, this protected stretch was further extended to 35-km, up to Shirangala. Today, Mahseer is conserved from Siddapur Bridge to Shirangala till the River Cauvery leaves Kodagu,” Aiyappa noted.
Radio-collaring efforts
One of the most significant contributions of the CWS has been scientific research. The Mahseer telemetry study conducted was the first-of-its-kind in India.
Over 40 Mahseers were caught, fitted with radio transmitters and released back into the river to study. However, known for their intelligence, the fish often rubbed the transmitters against rocks and managed to dislodge them.
Despite these challenges, researchers were able to gather valuable data on migration patterns and habitat preferences during high-water conditions.
National institutions such as the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute and the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture undertook five years of research in the region.
“Until then, there was little data on the upper reaches of the Cauvery, covering water quality across seasons, sediment composition, riparian vegetation and fish diversity. We supported these studies by providing staff and access to field locations. The findings, expected to be released soon, will offer deeper insights into the river’s ecology, including its insect and plant life,” Aiyappa revealed.
Ban on mining, fishing
“We also collaborated with Carleton University, Canada, on a study examining post-release mortality of Mahseer. The results were encouraging, showing a survival rate of 99.5 percent among fish that were caught and released,” Conservationist Aiyappa said. Legal intervention has also played a conservation role. An order was obtained from the Karnataka High Court banning sand mining in Mahseer-protected areas. Four full-time river watchers now patrol the stretch, monitoring illegal activities and gathering information on netting.
“With dynamiting and chemical poisoning classified as serious offences, such activities have virtually disappeared from the protected zones. Public awareness has grown to the extent that locals now alert authorities to any violations,” he noted.
Mahseer, Aiyappa points out, is among the most intelligent freshwater fish. Their survival over millions of years is testimony to their adaptability. The Mahseer derives its name from Sanskrit — ‘mahat’ (big) and ‘śiras’ (head).
Conservation efforts here go beyond a single species. The Cauvery is home to over 100 endemic fish species, all of which are protected under the current ecosystem-based conservation model. By minimising human intervention, aquatic life has begun to thrive across the protected stretches.
Mahseer is not edible. Wherever they thrive, invasive species such as Catfish and Tilapia fail to survive. Eating Mahseer causes persistent vomiting, possibly due to its high protein content or toxic fat composition. Today, the fish is globally renowned as a sport species rather than a food fish.
Since 2018, following directions from the Fisheries Department, Aiyappa has been attempting to breed the Humpback Mahseer and Orange-Finned Mahseer in captivity. Several attempts failed due to unforeseen challenges.
“Currently, juvenile fish have been collected and are being reared in controlled conditions at the Mahseer hatchery in Harangi,” he said.
This effort is ongoing to develop brood stock. Aiyappa remains hopeful. If successful, even 100 fishlings released into the wild would mark the first instance of captive breeding of a critically endangered freshwater fish in India.
The presence of Mahseer of various sizes in the protected areas already points to a positive trend, proof that the species is breeding, returning and repopulating the Cauvery under sustained conservation efforts.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by B.C. Thimmaiah / February 16th, 2026
Home Minister G. Parameshwara inaugurated the newly constructed police residential quarters at Suntikoppa in Kodagu district on Sunday.
The 12 residential quarters for police constables have been built at a cost of ₹ 3.64 crore by the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSPH&IDC).
Speaking after inaugurating the housing facility, the Minister said that around 40,000 residential quarters have already been constructed for police personnel across the state, while another 60,000 houses are still required.
Pointing out that the salaries of constables, who serve at the lowest ranks in the police department, had been increased, Mr. Parameshwara said the Government is providing improved housing facilities after taking note of the fact that many police personnel live in cramped houses.
Accordingly, the KSPH & IDC will provide housing in a phased manner up to the year 2030, he said.
Earlier, buildings were constructed at a cost of about ₹ 18 lakh per unit, but now the cost has increased to around ₹ 33 lakh. The government’s aim is to ensure that police personnel lead a comfortable and dignified life, he added.
The Minister assured to look into the list of demands made by MLA Mantar Gowda and priority given to construction of housing facilities for police personnel, while necessary steps will also be taken to establish police stations as per the Government’s parameters.
He said various measures have been introduced to make the police department more people-friendly, urging police personnel to maintain friendly relations with the public while ensuring strict punishment for offenders.
He further noted that Karnataka Police ranks first in the country in terms of safety and security, and police personnel perform their duties day and night, in rain and heat, often without rest. Therefore, they should be respected, and no one should attempt to demoralise them.
The Home Minister said that out of the 593 assurances given by the Siddaramaiah-led government in 2023, more than half have already been fulfilled, and all promises would be implemented within the next two years.
He added that the government has spent ₹1.36 lakh crore on the five guarantee schemes, aiming to bring poorer sections into the mainstream through various welfare programmes.
He stated that the government is people-oriented and functioning as promised, and added that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would present a strong budget on March 6.
MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda, speaking on the occasion, requested the Minister to fill vacant police posts, construct additional police quarters, and provide for the establishment of two more police stations in Kodagu district in the upcoming budget.
He also suggested utilising available land in the district for setting up a police training center.
Among those present were Southern Range Inspector General of Police Boralinagaiah, Deputy Commissioner S. J. Somashekar, Zilla Panchayat CEO Anand Prakash Meena, and Superintendent of Police R. N. Bindumani.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / February 15th, 2026
A Coffee planter said the budget is silent on crucial subsidies on fertilisers, essential plantation equipment and fundamental necessities, as well as on the facilitation of loans.
Image used for representational purposes only.(File Photo | Express)
Chikkamagaluru :
Coffee planter and social activist Holadagadde Girish said it was condemnable that the Union Budget ignored the coffee industry as it lacked any proposal to rescue growers from problems they face.
In a statement on Monday, he said the industry has been fetching considerable foreign exchange to the nation’s coffers, besides playing a key role in environment conservation and providing jobs. “It is alarming to observe that the budget lacks any revival programmes for the beleaguered industry, which is held back by erratic weather patterns, infestations, labour shortages, fluctuating market conditions and threats from wildlife,” Girish said.
The planter pointed out that the budget is silent on crucial subsidies on fertilisers, essential plantation equipment and fundamental necessities, as well as on the facilitation of loans. This neglect has further exacerbated the industry’s plight, pushing it to the brink of despair, he said.
Promises made by Central ministers including HD Kumaraswamy, the chairman of the Coffee Board and other officials during the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) centenary celebration at Balehonnur have proved to be mere rhetoric, Girish said.
The demands for the establishment of an ESI hospital, branding of coffee, promotion of the domestic coffee market and the creation of a Coffee Tech Park have been relegated to obscurity, Girish said.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 10th, 2026
Kodagu, the cradle of hockey in Karnataka, is preparing to host the Chenanda Kodava Family Hockey Festival from Apr. 5 to May 2 at Gen. K.S. Thimayya Stadium in Napokulu, with plans to make this year’s edition especially grand.
The organisers met Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, along with Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Wadiyar, on Feb. 9 in New Delhi and cordially invited him to attend the finals on May 2.
Notably, the Chenanda Kodava Family Hockey Festival organising committee members were dressed in traditional Kodava attire, adding a cultural touch to the occasion. The Minister, after accepting the invitation, also learnt about Kodagu’s rich hockey heritage and the historical significance of the festival.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports News / February 12th, 2026
Coffee Board of India CEO and Secretary M Kurma Rao on Monday said coffee exports for the year 2024-25 stood at $1.8billion.
Till February 1, 2026, coffee exports for 2025-26 were at $1.72billion.(File Photo)
Bengaluru :
The Coffee Board is leaving no stone unturned in tapping the domestic and international sector to make profits, and is looking to cross last fiscal’s export target and change market trends.
Coffee Board of India CEO and Secretary M Kurma Rao on Monday said coffee exports for the year 2024-25 stood at $1.8billion. Till February 1, 2026, exports for 2025-26 were at $1.72billion. “We are expecting to cross last year’s export figure. This will be achieved in the last few days, before end of March 2026,” he said.
Board data showed exports from January-December 2025 at $2billion. Coffee production for the year 2024-25 was 3.63 lakh tonnes. Of the total coffee produced, 70 per cent is exported and 30 per cent is for domestic consumption. A slow rise in domestic consumption is being noted. Data also showed Bengaluru gradually becoming the coffee capital of India and Asia.
Rao said all efforts are being made to increase export, production, productivity and coffee quality. Different strategies are being adopted, including water augmentation, special irrigation schemes and replacement and consolidation plantation. He was speaking to the media after announcing the second edition of the three-day India International Coffee Festival (IICF) from February 12 in Bengaluru.
Rao said Indian coffee is gaining recognition for its quality and diversity. The event will provide a platform to showcase the importance of Indian coffee and help build connections with producers, markets and encourage best practices.
“Our USP is two-tier shade grown coffee and crop diversification. We have ecologically sustainable models. Last December, two new Arabica coffee varieties were launched — Suraksha and Shatabdi. They are pest-resilient and high-yielding varieties. This brings the total to 18 Indian coffee varieties. We are also working on creating a unique coffee gene pool by getting species and varieties from across the globe. We are also working with Indian embassies and diaspora to increase our reach,” Rao said.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 10th, 2026
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