An emotional Bopanna rested his India-shirt on the court, marking the end of his Davis Cup career in which he played 33 ties, winning a total of 23 matches including 13 in doubles.
Rohan Bopanna celebrates after winning the doubles match against Morocco’s Elliot Benchetrit and Younes Lalami Laaroussi at the Davis Cup World Group-II, in Lucknow, on September 17, 2023. ) | Photo Credit: PTI
Rohan Bopanna brought the curtains down on his Davis Cup career with a comfortable straight set win alongside Yuki Bhambri before Sumit Nagal won his reverse singles as India sealed the World Group II tie against Morocco 3-1, in Lucknow on September 17.
The 43-year-old Bopanna, coming out to play his 33rd and final tie, and Bhambri raced to a 6-2 6-1 win over Elliot Benchetrit and Younes Lalami Laaroussi in one hour and 11 minutes at the Mini Stadium.
India’s number one singles player Sumit Nagal outgunned Yassine Dlimi 6-3 6-3 in the first reverse singles to seal the home tie. The inconsequential fifth rubber was not played. It is only the second time that Nagal has won both his singles matches in a Davis Cup tie. He had achieved a similar result against Pakistan in 2019 in Kazakhstan. Nagal earned early breaks in both the sets, leaving Dlimi playing catch-up.
The win takes India to next year’s World Group I play-offs.
An emotional Bopanna rested his India-shirt on the court, marking the end of his Davis Cup career in which he played 50 matches in 33 ties, winning 23 rubbers, including 13 in doubles.
Watched by his family and friends, Bopanna acknowledged their and fans’ appreciation and blew kisses towards the stands.
About 50 of Bopanna’s family and friends flew to Lucknow to watch the Coorg player in action one last time in Davis Cup.
They were wearing T-shirts that had a tri-colour-waving Bopanna picture printed.
Younes could not hold his serve even once in the match while the Indians faced just one break point when Bhambri served and saved that too.
The Indians drew the first blood when they broke Younes. On a Bhambri backhand return at 30-15, Younes netted the volley. Bhambri smashed a volley winner on Younes’ return to earn the first breakpoint.
Benchetrit went for an angled volley winner on a Bhambri return but the ball went out as Indians led 3-1. Bopanna came out serving the next game at love to make it 4-1.
Younes’ serve came under attack once again in game eight. Bopanna found a winner at 15-15 and the Morocco player served a double fault to be down by two break points.
Yuki converted the set point with a volley winner on a feeble Younes return. The first set ended in a jiffy, just 34 minutes as the Indians lost five point on their serve.
Bopanna’s big serve was at work in the second set too as he began the proceedings with a comfortable hold but Bhambri’s serve came under pressure in the third game when at 30-all, his half-volley pick up flew out of the court.
The Indians, though, saved the break point.
Younes was up 40-0 on his serve in game four but lost his way, serving double fault and making a lot of unforced errors to lose his serve for the third time in the match.
Bhambri served out the match.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Sports> Tennis> Davis Cup 2023 / by PTI / September 17th, 2023
Allana explains how it became one of the largest coffee exporters in India and caters to the needs of all types of buyers: specialty, single estate, and commercial-grade coffee.
When the Allana Group began trading in agricultural commodities in 1865, Founder Abdulla Allana and his family had no idea that the company would receive so much uptake that it would need a dedicated coffee division, nor that it would become one of the largest coffee exporters in India. But it did.
“Allana is a very entrepreneurial company. Despite earning a position of prestige in the Indian commodities market, the founding family allow us the freedom to input ideas, creating a stimulating working environment,” says Allanasons Director MP Devaiah.
“Through more than 158 years of inspired leadership, the Allana Group has emerged as a multi-product conglomerate of companies with wide-ranging interests. The company exports coffee, wheat, processed food, frozen buffalo and sheep meat, and is also making strides in the edible oils segment, along with a host of other products in the domestic market.”
After forming the subdivision, Allanasons, in 1973 to manufacture and supply processed food products, the company decided to diversify into coffee exports in 1982 and create the Coffee Division, based in Bangalore.
“The divisional office is situated in the heart of the city in close proximity to the Coffee Board of India. With the state of Karnataka producing 70 per cent of the coffee grown in the country, it is ideally located,” Devaiah says.
“Headed by a team of professionals well versed in the field and backed by the support of Allanasons, the Coffee Division soon made its presence felt, and found itself at the forefront of the industry.”
To complement this activity and gain control over the curing of the coffees sourced, Allanasons acquired its own curing factory in 1992.
“Gradually, this coffee curing unit, which was strategically located in Hassan in Karnataka and situated midway between the two major coffee growing districts of Chikkamagaluru and Coorg, became one of the hubs of activity in the industry,” says Devaiah.
“In turn, this required the expansion of the facilities and modernisation of the plant and machinery to meet the additional requirements of the Coffee Division. It also boasts an in-house cup-tasting facility for evaluating the characteristics of coffee.”
Allanasons owns two large warehouses at the port cities of Cochin and Mangalore where cargo is unloaded prior to shipment, ensuring that all operations come under its effective control. The company exports all grades of washed and unwashed Arabicas and Robustas, and owns and operates a dedicated facility in Mangalore where coffee monsooning is carried out.
This is the 12- to 16-week process of spreading beans across the warehouse floor during India’s monsoon season, allowing the beans to absorb moisture, swell in size, change colour, and shed their acidity.
“We are a supplier of quality coffee known for fulfilling commitments on schedule,” says Devaiah.
“In recognition of the Coffee Division’s performance, the Coffee Board of India has awarded Allanasons many accolades. Allanasons has won the APEDA Golden Export Trophy each year since 1992, reflecting its premier position in the export of agricultural products and processed foods. The Government of India has recognised Allana as a Premier Trading House, the highest achievable export performance recognition in the country.”
“We hold the distinction of being the country’s leading exporter of green coffee for a number of years consecutively, with exports in the range of 24,000 to 30,000 tonnes per annum.”
According to Devaiah, Allana sources beans directly from coffee plantations, enjoying preferential status with many growers who offer the best of their harvest in view of reliable transactions and assured uptake.
“The lush green hills of South India provide the world with much more than scenic beauty. They are the home of India’s largest coffee plantations and situated in the hills of Baba Budan, Biligiri, Kodagu, Mysore, Nilgiris, Palani and Shevaroy. These plantations produce fine coffee grown under natural forest shade,” he says.
“We value our associations with buyers and growers which have been nurtured over a four decade period. Trust and confidence in Allana is due to dedicated customer service, with instant round-the-clock response systems.”
Devaiah continues that the favourable climate, fertile soil, scientific cultivation – much of it organic – and stringent quality control, all contribute to producing the finest mild coffee in the world today — rich, smooth, and full of flavour.
“Over the years, we have gained expertise in dealing with all the major specialty coffees from India, including Monsooned Malabar AA and Monsooned Robusta AA,” he says.
“We have also developed two specialty coffees under our own brand name. Allana Mild Plantation AA and Royal Robusta Cherry AA. In addition, we are now offering our own exquisite signature coffees Arabica Monsooned Malabar AAA Screen 19/20 and Robusta Monsooned AAA Screen 19. We also provide buyers with customised special coffees to suit their needs.”
Devaiah looks forward to Allana remaining at the forefront of green bean coffee business in the Indian coffee market.
“Our strong network in sourcing the finest beans as well as our inhouse quality control differentiate and bring out the uniqueness in our coffee,” he says.
Devaiah says over the years coffee has become a mainstream consumer drink, especially amongst the vibrant young generation in India.
Keeping this in mind, Allana is also moving into downstream products.
“Our foray into the domestic coffee market is our commitment to provide one of the highest grades of coffee to our consumers. Being a veteran player in the industry, our extensive experience and expertise along with our world class infrastructure, we aim to create a superior and healthy domestic coffee market in India,” he says.
Devaiah says Allanasons is a trusted name, and the best bet for any requirements of quality coffee.
“We aim to grow through partnerships and maintain an uncompromising approach towards excellence which includes teaching an indomitable drive, a relentless determination and a persistent delivery standard in every aspect of the business,” he says.
The Annual Kodava Convention in North America is scheduled to take place on Sept. 2 and 3, 2023, in the San Francisco Bay Area, famously known as Silicon Valley. The convention will culminate on Sept. 3, coinciding with the Kodava community’s Kailpoldh festival. The inaugural day’s events will start at 5 pm.
This convention is a tradition spanning approximately 15 years. This time, over 500 Kodavas and their families from across the United States have registered to participate in the event, which is jointly organised by around 40 Kodava families.
According to the organisers, the two-day event will see the participation of Kodava guests from around the world. They have received well-wishes from notable Kodavas, including individuals from the military, sports, and the entertainment industry.
Registration had to be closed due to limited seating capacity. Local families will come together to showcase the cultural events that reflect the deep-rooted Kodava heritage and their unique talents, as stated by the organisers.
The programme will feature a blend of traditional and cultural events, including Baalo Paat performances, Kailpodh Ayudha Puja, Kodava cultural dances, Kodava Koota updates, an entrepreneurial mixer, a Kodava cultural skit, and the traditional Bolakaat.
This convention serves as a gathering for Kodava brethren from across North America, providing an opportunity to meet, learn and celebrate the rich Kodava culture. This year’s convention is aptly named ‘namme-by-the-bay’ and promises to offer attendees a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the world of Kodava tradition, unique attire, art, cuisine, culture and the deities.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 02nd, 2023
Ashwini Ponnappa, who has achieved many firsts for Indian badminton, is drawing new energy from her 20-year-old partner Tanisha Crasto. But the 33-year-old says her biggest challenge is to stay motivated.
Ashwini Ponnappa poses for a photo among shuttles at a badminton court. (Photo credit: Ashwini Ponnappa/Instagram)
Ashwini Ponnappa is unbothered about her age. An average female shuttler retires at 28, but Ashwini, even at 33, does not see any reason for slowing down. She does not let the thought of retirement sneak into her mind either. Having recently taken up the fresh challenge of playing two intense and physically demanding disciplines – women’s and mixed doubles – instead of one, Ashwini says she ‘finds solace’ in distributing her priorities. “It is not easy to play two events, but it is something that I want to do at this point, I kind of find solace in playing two events rather than one,” Ashwini told The Bridge.
Ashwini broke her long-standing and rather futile partnership with N. Sikki Reddy last year, following her highly successful one with Jwala Gutta which ended in 2016. She tried her hands at pottery and commentary before embarking on a fresh challenge by pairing up with Tanisha Crasto, 13 years younger than her. To put the matter into perspective, when Ashiwni had won her first title – the national sub-junior girls’ doubles gold in 2004 – Tanisha had been in her nappies.
A partner in the mould of a mentor
Ashwin admitted that the trickiest thing for her now is to stay motivated. But Tanisha’s exuberant presence is not allowing her to lag behind. “As you get older, things get tricker. When you are young, you have time on your side, enthusiasm. For me, the challenge right now is to look after my body and keep my mind fresh. And to keep going, keep pushing and keep having that belief and hope that ‘yes, you are going to get that result, again’,” Ashwini said. “It’s tricky, especially when it comes to getting to the stadium and training every single day. The glimmer of hope is that I always believe something good is going to come my way. And starting over with a young partner is a motivating,” she stated.
Being a senior player, Ashwini is more than just a partner in this new partnership. “I love the energy and enthusiasm that she (Tanisha) brings in to the court. Partnering with her is quite fun, because she always wants to do well. And she is very gritty on court. Our age gap does not matter on court. Of course, since I have played for such a long time, I tend to be more like a mentor,” she said. But Ashwini ruled out having any seniority complex. “But having said that, when you are on board, you cannot have a seniority complex. At the end of the day, you are in a partnership irrespective of how big the age gap is,” added the shuttler.
Even though the Ashwini-Tanisha partnership is at a nascent stage now, the combination has started clicking. They claimed their first International Challenge title in Nantes, France, in June. They were also part of India’s mixed team silver medal-winning squad at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Ranked 56th in the world, Ashwini-Tanisha is the second-choice women’s doubles pair for India after Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand. The pair will next be seen in action at the Asian Games in Hangzhou in September. However, Ashwini is no longer in the reckoning for the Olympics or BWF World Championships, as she has slipped out of the top 32. “We just started playing in January. Unfortunately, we have not played too many tournaments. But I am very happy with the fact that we won the Nantes International Challenge. We are just getting started, we have a long way to go,” Ashwini asserted.
Juggling between challenges Her women’s doubles career is already legendary, but Ashwini’s transition to mixed doubles has always been challenging. “Switching to mixed doubles has always been a challenge. It is easier to have a woman on your side and also one at the back of the court. I have been a women’s doubles specialist in my career so far. I have always been known as a player who is predominantly at the back of the court rather than front,” explained Ashwini. “The most obvious difference is that in mixed doubles, you always find the girl at the net,” she said.
But, Ashwini, like always, is not willing to give up. “I think I have adapted over the years, which also requires me to move into the net. It’s not natural for me, but I have learnt to make the transition to the back of the court,” she said about the challenge of playing mixed doubles. This challenge is precisely the reason her partnership with B. Sumeeth Reddy has not taken off yet. In the mixed-gender event, they are ranked 64th and are yet to taste success. This is the latest of Ashwini’s many attempts to make her mixed doubles career fly. She had previously paired up with Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, to whom she attributed the speed and power of her smash. But that partnership was severed soon as Satwik specialised in men’s doubles and gave up on mixed doubles.
As she is ranked outside the top rung, Ashwini is no longer a sure shot on the World Tour; she features regularly in the qualifiers. This makes her newest journey more strenuous, as she has had to juggle between smaller tournaments for ranking points, where she often plays too many matches in a day. “If I am playing the bigger tournaments, it is not much of an issue because there is enough time. But if I am playing the smaller tournaments, which we have to since we do not really have a good ranking, there are times when you could end up playing three to four matches in a day,” said Ashwini.
Pride of Indian women’s doubles
Ashwini has been a trailblazer in Indian women’s doubles along with Jwala. The duo achieved many firsts for Indian doubles, by winning Commonwealth Games gold and BWF World Championships bronze. In fact, for 11 years, Ashwini and Jwala were India’s only doubles pair to win a medal at the Worlds before Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty – pioneers in men’s doubles – matched their feat in 2022 in Tokyo.
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“We were the first to win the bronze medal at the World Championships. And we were the first ones to win a bronze medal overall in 28 years. It was a very special moment for us. The best part for me was that we enjoyed the entire tournament. The icing on the cake was the bronze medal,” Ashwini said.
Ashwini welcomes changes in women’s doubles
Though she finds herself out of favour in the Indian badminton contingent in top-notch events, the seasoned star is delighted with the changes in Indian women’s doubles, which has emerged from an earlier archaic philosophy to become an attractive discipline for youngsters.
“When I started, I did not want to play doubles. I was more interested in women’s singles. I was asked to choose it. But over the years, I have proved myself as a women’s doubles specialist,” said Ashwini.
She welcomes the recent trend where more players are taking up the discipline and sponsors are supporting their bids. India now has two women’s doubles pairings in the top 50. There are five more in the top 100, including Ashwini-Tanisha at 56.
“It has evolved quite a bit in the last decade, especially the last few years. Especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Youngsters are being pushed towards doubles and sponsors are supporting them. In the past, only one or two pairs were sent and not a lot of pairs went on their own. This has changed drastically,” observed Ashwini.
However, Ashwini finds the latest BWF World Tour hectic, where shuttlers are forced to compete for ranking and Olympic qualification points round the year.
“It gets really overwhelming at times. It is hard to find the right gap for a break. It would be nice if we have a streamlined year, where we would also get an off season. But I would say the sport is growing the way it should grow. There’s always good and bad, it depends on how you look at it,” opined Ashwini.
source: http://www.thebridge.in / The Bridge / Home> Badminton / by Sudipta Biswas / August 27th, 2023
‘It’s having the right people around—that is crucial. To stop a negative mindset and have the team encouraging and moving you forward, that helps one grow,’ says Rohan Bopanna.
Rohan Bopanna
Twenty years in the making, the legacy of tennis champion Rohan Bopanna has been strong and sublime. The oldest player on the masters’ circuit at 43, the lone Indian winning matches, tennis is ingrained in his soul. Now, the champion turns his aggressive play, ball plucking, and serve-oriented game to the 2023 US Open doubles draw with Australian Matthew Ebden, all the while also embracing his first love coffee – as Coffee Board of India’s coffee ambassador. But, more on that later.
At a time when the rigours of age force one to hang their boots, Coorg and Bangalore boy Rohan Bopanna perseveres. Playing his best tennis yet, 2023 saw him win an ATP master’s title, reach a major final and semi-final, making it back onto the doubles ranked No. 8. This resilience, perseverance, discipline and insatiable urge to compete has been his lode star. From a “not-scholarship worthy teen” who paid for coaching and board in Pune, the years have only transformed his game and resolve into the Indian tennis juggernaut he is today. Aware of the constant battle with age, Rohan’s 2023 Davis Cup appearance will be his last, international tennis continues though.
“I am retiring from Davis Cup, not general tennis. Having played Davis Cup for 20-plus years, it is the right time to make the call. It is based in India, and I see a few younger players upping their ranking. Thus, I was aware that I will be replaced by another Indian, unlike on the tour where if I retire, it is not guaranteed that the spot will go to an Indian,” explains Rohan, adding, “Playing my last match in India will be special. So proud and happy about my 20-year journey at the Davis Cup,” adds the player currently in the US.
Brushing aside his age, he feels, “Age is truly a number. The mind limits us, it defines if you can or can’t push the limit. If you manage the demands on the body, anything is possible. The right time for recovery, sleep, food, strength and mobility is key.” There are no off days for the grand slammer – an hour of mobility, exercise bands, strength work for his legs, agility and Iyengar yoga before practice. The gym for a cool down, he adds, “Doing squats is extremely painful for me as I don’t have cartilage. I focus on small muscles. Cooling down and stretching, and an ice bath is key. Investing and traveling with a physio helps me take care of my body as maintaining muscle is important.”
Loving simple home cooked fare, he admits being partial to rice, and no yeast. Not a stickler, if the urge strikes, in Rome, a pizza slice is welcome, even a rare dessert, and in Coorg his mom’s Pandi curry. Fruits, eggs, cereal for breakfast, his favourite filter coffee, salmon or chicken with white rice and vegetables for a meal, the most essential is, “Proper sleep – seven to eight hours, recovery is sacrosanct. Having a personal physio at Wimbledon helped me reach the doubles semi-finals after playing back to back matches on four consecutive days,” adds Bopanna.
Oh partner my partner
Bopanna and Matthew Ebden have been clinching tough matches on the doubles circuit since January 2023. A player who achieved a doubles career-high No. 3 in 2013, and earned 400th doubles win of his career in 2021, has over the relentless tournament-hopping, and match-playing found many partners – Imran Qureshi, Matwe Middelkoop, etc, and now Ebden. It’s about focusing on the relationship and evolving. “Camaraderie has to develop off the court too, which aids in tight matches. You need to trust each other, understand the need for space, when to take charge or change tactics. Ebden brings a calmness on court, and we both don’t get flustered,” mulls Rohan.
A Coorg at heart
Spending his formative years (till 14) at the family coffee estate Raja Prabha Estate at Madhapur (named after Raja his uncle, and Prabha his dad), one can easily picture a little Rohan running amok amid greenery, climbing and swinging from trees – even today, the outdoorsy persona thrives. “Being a part of coffee picking, harvesting, packaging – the estate has given me amazing memories. Tennis, I picked up much later, at 10. Till then, I was a naughty brat!” he smiles.
That tennis requires deep pockets, it’s Rohan’s parents’ unwavering support that has seen his fortunes rise. “When you are paying for so many tickets, it’s not easy – my coach, physio, wife and daughter. The hardest part is that from a young age one has to pay all the expenses. Even today, I pay for my coach, physio, travel, and unfortunately not many people know this, they think the federation helps,” he says.
Attributing his father for pushing his limits, and his mother for ensuring he was focused, today he realises the crucial role they played. “Not once did they say, ‘ok, tennis is going nowhere, let’s stop it.’ They encouraged me, gave me a chance to learn and excel. They wanted me to represent India one day. From 2002, now playing for 20 years has been a blessing,” he adds.
“Dad learnt and taught himself tennis in Coorg, he got eight members together, built a tennis court – formed a club, and they taught each other, even the wives! Appreciating this journey from basics – even today the club has no gym – my dad had built two poles with a rope to help strengthen my grip. Those days, often, there was no electricity, I would study under a candlelight, that was normal,” chuckles Rohan.
Gifted a bicycle in Pune, for four years, the grand slam winner would pedal 14-15 km every day, then at 19, he got a 1999 Hero Honda Splendour, which is there even today!
Many tennis players visited the estate for his wedding to Supriya, and loved it. “Mahesh, Sania and Rishi have come there – and yes, they played tennis on that basic court where I started my journey,” he says.
Dad’s biggest fan is Tridha
Rohan thrives on competition. But tennis can be a lonely endeavour. Respite with family helps, and Rohan is grateful his daughter can witness him play. “Our daughter Tridha is four. She watches me play – which is an amazing feeling. I am happy she can witness my live tennis instead of saying, ‘Oh, my dad used to play.’ It makes a world of difference. Having Supriya and her around is a blessing. She might not understand the game but is thrilled to watch me practice, picks up balls, she even brings a racket for fun – When I lose a match, she has now learnt to muster the courage, to say ‘bad luck’,” says the doting father.
The inner circle plays a significant role in an athlete’s journey, and his robust support system includes coach Scott Davidoff who has worked with players like Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza. Bringing a new energy to Rohan’s steadfast game, he adds, “Scott has been travelling with me for over 12 years. We are able to push and play at a higher level. He brings stability. When overwhelmed, Scott understands my struggles, is succinct, and helps manage the mind. It could be a suggestion on slowing down my first serves if I am not accurate, or using a kick serve – his perspective comes from years of experience.”
Brewing the coffee narrative
His love affair with coffee has come full circle as coffee ambassador for the Coffee Board of India. A rite of passage with the ubiquitous seed, the World Coffee Conference to be held in Bangalore from September 25-28, and Rohan is embracing this role whole heartedly. “The Coffee Board CEO recognised that I was doing my bit for Indian coffee. I’d love to showcase Indian coffee, its rich culture – which many are unaware about. To bring India onto the world map. Indian coffee is uniquely grown under shade, compared to others grown in direct sunlight,” pipes the guy always carries his coffee filter and roast on tour.
On awakening, a ritual steeped in love, the welcome brew and aroma is a camaraderie that is special. “My coffee love came way before tennis,” chuckles Rohan who is touring with gifts of his own artisan coffee blend. Many tennis players love coffee, thus the Rohan Bopanna blend in a tie up with Maverick and Farmer is quite the rage. “The beans are from my estate, roasted, and packaged – a medium roast 100 percent Arabica blend,” says the filter coffee aficionado who feels a medium roast enhances flavour, and is fascinated by the innumerable brewing methods.
Indian tennis needs structure
Indian tennis has been mercurial. While doubles has seen successes, the dearth of singles, Rohan feels, is because India currently does not have a structure to help its growth. “We need tournaments and opportunities for players based on rankings, more futures and challengers. Foresight too – each state tennis association should hold at least one of each per year. We have many junior tournaments, but after that, it’s zero – KSLTA, and MSLTA are trying to host tournaments which is great. If the other 15-20 states did that too, Indian tennis will get a full calendar. And Indian tennis will grow,” stresses Bopanna citing the example of US-based Ben Shelton (19) who is wowing fans and is in the top 100. “We don’t have that opportunity, we need to create it first before even asking where the players are,” he affirms.
Perseverance above all
From a dismal 2020 where he went five months without a win, a stellar 2022, and 2023, “It’s mental strength to constantly manage situations no matter what, that is important.” A calmer Bopanna now understands the reality of effort, how to stop the mind rambles. “It’s having the right people around – that is crucial. To stop a negative mindset, and have the team encouraging and moving you forward, that helps one grow.”
The writer is a senior journalist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.
source: http://www.firstpost.com / First Post / Home> Opinion / by Suruchi Kapur-Gomes / August 27th, 2023
Dr. Cheranda Koushik Ponnanna has been appointed as a Visiting Fellow at the National Institute of Health (NIH), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), Phoenix, Arizona.
He will be conducting his Post Doctoral Resarch on the Genetic Basis of Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity. He holds a Ph.D in Genetics from University of Mysore. He is the son of Cheranda Ravi Thimmaiah and Usha from B. Shettigeri, Kodagu.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / August 14th, 2023
Marriott Hotels, an esteemed flagbearer within Marriott Bonvoy’s illustrious array of 31 hotel brands, has unveiled the Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa amidst the tranquil landscapes of Coorg, Karnataka. Nestled amid the verdant expanse of the Makandur forest, this modern haven offers a gateway to immersive local escapades, all cradled within the serene sanctuary of a lush botanical haven.
Renowned as one of Southern India’s premier hill station destinations, Coorg boasts enchanting vistas of mist-shrouded hills and luxuriant landscapes, providing a picturesque canvas for travelers. What sets this locale apart is not only its breathtaking natural allure but also the spectrum of exhilarating activities on offer, including intrepid treks, exploration of coffee plantations, and the enchantment of cascading waterfalls.
“We are thrilled to bring Marriott Hotels to Coorg, famously known as the Scotland of India, a land endowed with breath-taking natural splendor and glorious history. This opening underlines our commitment and focus as we continue to expand our footprints across leading travel destinations within India, providing travelers with trusted and high-quality accommodation choices” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “Marriott Hotels continues to live its legacy of Wonderful Hospitality, earning the trust of travelers around the globe.”
With 108 elegantly appointed villas and cottages, the Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa showcases panoramic emerald landscapes. Each villa boasts abundant natural light, plush bedding, and modern conveniences. Moreover, the resort extends its warm hospitality to four-legged companions, enhancing the vacation experience.
Within the dining sphere, the resort presents a diverse culinary offering. Madiker Kitchen caters to a global palate with international favorites and traditional Coorgi cuisine. Grills By The Valley promises a forest-framed dining experience with innovative dishes and skillfully crafted cocktails. The Greatroom welcomes guests to indulge in artisanal teas, coffees, and creatively infused cocktails amidst a library setting. As the day winds down, the swim-up Pool Bar provides an ideal setting for sundowners and light bites.
“We are delighted to welcome guests to our stunning new resort in Coorg,” said Randal Whelpdale, General Manager at Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa. “Coorg is a unique blend of serene landscapes, vibrant traditions, and outdoor adventure. We are thrilled to showcase its natural beauty and charm through our exceptional facilities, curated local experiences, and warm hospitality.”
source: http://www.businessnewsweek.in / Business News Week / Home> Business / by Sujata / August 11th, 2023
The fifth edition of the World Coffee Conference is coming to India. The event is set to unite the global coffee industry on sustainable topics of discussion, including circular economy and regenerative agriculture.
Since the 18th century, commercial coffee has been thriving in India. Over time, the country has evolved from a tea drinking nation to one with a strong coffee identity.
Coffee is traditionally cultivated in the Western Ghats, and is rapidly spreading to the areas of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha and the North East states. This year however, all eyes will be on Bangalore, the largest city of the southern Indian state of Karnataka, as it hosts one of the largest global events in the coffee sector.
For the first time since 2016, the International Coffee Organisation (ICO), a multilateral intergovernmental organisation for coffee, and its Members, will host the World Coffee Conference (WCC) from 25 to 28 September.
The event is foreseen in the International Coffee Agreement 2007 treaty, in which the organisation aims to host every four to five years. The WCC first took place in London, the United Kingdom, in 2001; followed by Salvador, Brazil in 2005; Guatemala City, Guatemala in 2010; and Addis Adaba, Ethiopia in 2016.
COVID-19 pressed pause on the last scheduled event, and now, the world is ready to unite in an Asian country for the first time.
“The renewed interest and commitment by India to organise this high-level event is exciting. It will not only be a forum to discuss critical topics for the global sector, but to be involved in a technologist exhibition, and technical workshops and a Growers’ Conclave run by the Coffee Board of India. We will see top-tier company representatives, government representatives, United Nations partners, and even Vietnam will be coming with more than 20 delegates. They see it as a huge opportunity to showcase the way they produce and trade coffee,” says ICO’s Head of Operations, Gerardo Patacconi.
The iconic Bangalore Palace Grounds will be the host venue for the international conference and coffee technology fair. The Government of India will host the WCC 2023, chaired by the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal.
The WCC will be held in conjunction with the G20 Summit under the country’s presidency. It will also integrate the 5th CEOs and Global Leaders Forum, and the 136th Session of the International Coffee Council.
All 75 ICO member countries are ready to attend the WCC, with the conference expected to attract more than 1500 registered delegates and 10,000 business visitors from across the globe.
WCC 2023 will bring together representatives from government, the private sector, development partners, as well as civil society and academia, coffee producers and importers, leading coffee associations, global coffee experts, roasters and more.
They will gather to discuss and debate on coffee market trends, technology, and best practices for building a circular coffee economy, regenerative agriculture, sustainability through consumption, innovation and access to finance, with the goal to collaborate towards building a sustainable coffee industry from bean to cup.
Guest speakers will present on this year’s event theme, ‘Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,’ addressing market trends, challenges, best practices, technologies, and strategic and financial solutions to build a resilient and sustainable future for the coffee sector, and production issues surrounding sustainability and cultivation, living income, and climate change, in compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals and Environmental, Social and Governance practices.
“On 1 October 2022, the International Coffee Day, ICO members decided on this topic theme. The reason is that there is a growing interest and opportunity at the different levels of the supply chain on circularity. This year we are also launching the Coffee Development Report on circular economy, and we are also looking into how to move circularity into action,” Patacconi says.
“There is huge opportunity for increasing jobs and income through circularity, so transforming waste, whatever form that takes, into a business opportunity is important, as is the work we match with living income for livelihood and prosperity of farmers. There are scattered, good examples, but we need to bring them together so that everybody can have access to this knowledge.”
Patacconi notes there are three levels of outcomes expected from this year’s high-level discussions at the “Davos of Coffee”. First, is a high level of engagement of both policy makers and industry around the event themes, including opportunities to discuss trends in the coffee sector, and changing regulatory framework.
The second is to determine practical solutions in terms of technology that could be made available, and third, is about access to financial resources, knowledge, and markets.
“Through the ICO we really want to promote the creation of a centre for coffee circular economy, which we are now advancing with the help of our members. We are also joining the Lavazza Foundation and United Nations agencies such as UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) and ITC (International Trade Centre) for the creation of Coffee Circular Economy Hub to share knowledge and help implement win-win solutions from coffee farms to cup,” Patacconi says.
While it’s important that policy makers are engaged in this year’s WCC, Dr KG Jagadeesha, CEO of the Coffee Board of India, says it’s crucial to have participation from producers.
“It’s extremely important for everyone across the value chain to attend, including consuming countries. This event is exclusively dedicated to growers, and we invite growers from different coffee growing nations such as Vietnam, Brazil, Central and South America, and African countries to attend,” he says.
The international community is also invited to visit India’s exotic coffee growing estates from 23 to 24 September to appreciate the unique qualities of its thick, shade-grown canopy coffee.
“India is currently the sixth largest grower of coffee and fifth largest exporter in the world. We have half a million families dependent on cultivating coffee in India. Two million people are directly or indirectly involved in coffee value chain, and the coffee sector in India, especially domestic coffee market, is expanding. The percentage of youth who are passionate, dynamic drinkers is expanding. They are highly qualified, and their tech-savvy connection to social media and influence is driving the market.”
For a traditional tea-drinking nation, which is low-cost and easy to prepare, Jagadeesha says the renewed uptake of coffee consumption is impressive and a sign of development because living incomes and standards have improved, thereby allowing the younger generation to afford the luxury of quality coffee.
“The evolution of coffee in India is not just about access to coffee chains, it’s about offering an experience for the youth to gather and connect in urban areas, a place to unite and exchange ideas,” Jagadeesha says. “Bangalore, in particular, is the Silicon Valley of India. It’s home to a lot of technology parks and I.T companies, as well as the highest number of technical colleges. It’s the place to be for coffee. It’s a cosmopolitan city with a significant proportion of foreign nationals, and a large number of coffee chains, including Blue Tokai, Koinonia Coffee Roasters, and Third Wave Coffee have all made their mark here.
“This is a city worth exploring for coffee, and a country that invites the world to its doorstep and share its excitement for the future of possibilities.”
A shortage of coffee beans around the world, in particular due to weather problems in India and lack of supply from Brazil and Vietnam, has led to domestic market prices rising steeply. A well-known coffee trader in Pune, Gandhi’s Coffee, said he had to pass on a Rs50/kg price hike to customers.
Be it the humbled pulses, vegetables or even exalted gourmet offerings, food prices are now steaming hot, singing consumers’ budgets and making policy decisions tougher for rate-setters while they perhaps sip on coffee. But halt, for even the world of coffee, that beloved elixir that often serves as the morning oracle, is now demanding a premium spot on the rate chart.
Hold onto your mugs, coffee enthusiasts, because it looks like your beloved brew is about to take you on a rollercoaster ride through the wild world of caffeine economics.
This increase in cost is attributed to a shortage of coffee beans on a global scale, particularly stemming from Brazil and Vietnam, coupled with unexpected rains affecting bean quality in India. This unfavorable situation has led to a surge in domestic market prices.
Coffee traders, who usually acquire premium beans from Chikkamagaluru in Karnataka, have begun transferring this price escalation to their customers.
Latha Aravind, a resident of Mumbai’s Matunga, said that the cost of usual mixed coffee grounds – a blend of Robusta and Peaberry beans – has risen from around Rs 580/kg to about Rs 640 to Rs 650/kg.
“Prices have shot up and may keep rising,” she told Times of India.
Rajesh Gandhi, owner of Gandhi’s Coffee, a well-known coffee trading enterprise in Pune, said that he had to pass on a Rs 50/kg price hike to the end consumers, as Robusta beans have undergone an approximate 50% price surge, while Arabica beans area dearer by about 15%.
Ajit Raichur, a coffee trader from Kumardhara Traders, said that coffee prices are typically adjusted annually in January. However, this year witnessed an additional price hike of Rs 50/kg across all available bean varieties in July.
GM Dharmendra, a wholesale green coffee (raw beans) trader based in Bengaluru, said he lost 30% to 40% business over the last few months. “Many small coffee retailers in the area have shut shop or they are buying poor quality beans at cheaper rates. Many customers have shifted to instant coffee,” he added.
The coffee-growing region of Chikkamagaluru has borne the brunt of climate change impacts. Rohan Kuriyan, manager of Balanoor Plantations and Industries, reported a 20% decrease in yield due to untimely rainfall during blossom days, compared to the previous year. “The average cost of picking has also gone up. We ended up doing four rounds of selective harvesting instead of the usual two because of the uneven ripening of the cherries,” he added.
“With some positive news about better crop in Brazil, Arabica prices have started softening in the international markets. However, prices are expected to be a bit higher in the domestic market which is growing at double digits because of demand and less production,” Challa Srishant, MD of CCL Products (India) and member of the Coffee Board of India, said.
CCL Products, known for its ‘Continental’ coffee brand, has raised prices from Rs 280 to Rs 360 for a 200g jar within a year, with a further 10% increase planned for the next quarter. Observers in the industry have noted that the diminishing price gap between Arabica and Robusta has inclined consumers towards the smoother and sweeter profile of Arabica beans.
“For planters, operational costs have gone up – right from labour costs to fertilizer and pesticide costs. Coffee prices (Arabica) are a little lower now than they were last year but traders usually buy in bulk and therefore it appears like they are protecting their bottom line in case prices rise again,” Mahesh Shashidhar, chairman of Karnataka Planters’ Association said.
The harvesting season for Robusta beans is six-to-seven months away, and there is uncertainty about the next crop. Karnataka remains a dominant player, contributing 70% of India’s coffee production, while Kerala and Tamil Nadu also cultivate coffee. Industry stakeholders have collectively absorbed various price increases at different junctures. Although prices haven’t been adjusted yet, Amit Bhatta, founder of the specialty coffee brand Aeka Coffee, conceded that an additional 15% to 20% increase could prompt a shift of this burden onto the end consumers.
(with inputs from ToI)
source: http://www.economictimes.indiatimes.com / The Economic Times / Home> India> Business News > Industry> Cons Products> Food / ET Online / August 09th, 2023
Karnataka gives impetus to coffee with focus on sustainability through circular economy and regenerative agriculture. The state is the indisputable leader and produces over 70% of the total coffee produced in the country. It produced 2.33 lakh metric tonne of coffee in the last financial year, which is the highest coffee production by any state in the country.
By focusing on sustainability through circular economy approach, the state is implementing practices that aim to minimise waste, maximise efficiency in resources, and encourage environment-friendly practices throughout the coffee production process. In addition, the adoption of regenerative agriculture can enable to restore and enhance soil health leading to a more robust and sustainable coffee plantation.
The key coffee producing districts known as ‘The Land of Coffee’ are Hassan, Kodagu, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru. From a national perspective, the key production areas of coffee are Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, which aggregate a total production of 92% in the country.
Going by the capability and competence of coffee growers, the state government is looking to unlock access to global coffee markets and tap the promising opportunities. In this regard, Bengaluru is playing host to the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023 for the first time in Asia from September 25-28, 2023, at the Bangalore Palace.
The organisers are the International Coffee Organization (ICO), in collaboration with the Coffee Board of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Government of Karnataka and the coffee industry provides unparalleled business opportunities for global coffee stakeholders. For the four-day event, WCC has appointed Rohan Bopanna, India’s doubles tennis player & Arjuna awardee as its Brand Ambassador.
Evolving around the theme of the conference: “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,” the event will feature conference, exhibition, skill-building workshops, CEOs & global leaders forum, growers conclave and a myriad of networking events, all focused on advancing sustainability in the coffee industry.
It will also include producers, curers, roasters, exporters, policy makers, researchers and everyone passionate about coffee from 80+ countries to join at WCC 2023, with a 4-day intensive programme focused on building a sustainable coffee industry through discussion, debate, and collaboration, said the organisers.
During the unveiling of the WCC 2023 Logo and Theme- “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture”, Dr S Selvakumar, Principal Secretary of the Karnataka Commerce & Industries Department, said that, Karnataka is undoubtedly the coffee capital of India. “There is tremendous opportunity for investments across the coffee value chain- from bean to cup right from equipment companies, coffee machines, soluble coffee brands as well as café chains. This in turn leads to increased employment opportunities for our talent from farm to cafes. Therefore, we are privileged to be the host state for this event.”
Dr K G Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board of India, said, “WCC 2023 holds great promise for the global coffee sector, specially the Indian coffee industry fostering growth and sustainable practices while showcasing its rich coffee heritage to the world.
WCC 2023 will host an impressive array of participants, including ICO member country representatives, coffee growers, coffee roasters, coffee curers, farm to cup industry, HoReCa, café owners, coffee nations, policy makers, start-ups, R&D and students.
Bengaluru awaits to host this extraordinary global gathering, which will showcase commitment towards sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. Previous editions of the conference were successfully held in England (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010), and Ethiopia (2016), receiving immense appreciation from coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
source: http://www.fnbnews.com / FnBNews.com , Food & Beverage News / Home> Top News / August 02nd, 2023
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