Category Archives: Business & Economy

Kerala: Cozy in Kodagu

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Records, All, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021)
Kaldi Kappee, the coffee shop

The Ibnii Coorg is a delicious little secret set amidst lush green hills.

For a region often described by locals as ‘60×40’ (measuring 60 miles by 40 miles), understandably there are few secrets in Kodagu, or Coorg. Yet, tucked around a bend just off the Suntikoppa-Madikeri road, the gates of The Ibnii open into a hidden world of its own. Literally meaning ‘dew’, The Ibnii was ten years in the making before it formally opened in February. A tree-lined cobbled driveway ends at The Kaadu, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley that cradles the resort. 

A tree-lined cobbled driveway ends at The Kaadu, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley that cradles the resort. Ushered down a small wooden bridge to a lookout, we savour the view over some bella ( jaggery) coffee, traditionally served to guests in Coorg. In the distance, the four-tiered cascade swimming pool breaks the expanse of dense green in a striking splash of turquoise blue.

We linger over another cuppa and only the promise of greater comfort makes us move. A golf cart takes us to our private pool villa. In a region globally recognised as an ecological hotspot, everything about the resort is eco-sensitive. The architecture and landscape were designed without damaging local flora—all the villas and structures are built around existing vegetation and no trees were cut except dead and decaying ones. Three lakes were created on the 120-acre property for rainwater harvesting. Other green practices include a stringent ‘no plastic’ policy, vermicomposting and waste-recycling. The resort prides itself in having no room service or phone network (though wi-fi is available), encouraging guests to explore the outdoors. 

Wooden cottage

On a ‘Bean to Cup’ coffee tour, we get first-hand experience of the process of coffee-making and grading of beans. The venue is Kaldi Kappee, a tranquil lakeside coffee-house named after the Ethiopian shepherd who discovered the rejuvenating properties of coffee when his goats pranced about after feeding on some wild berries. On display are coffee-grinding machines, filters and presses, as well as single-origin coffee from an all-woman village cooperative in Chikmagalur. It’s called Halli Berri!

Breakfast with local flavours

The boulangerie, tucked behind the coffee counter reveals a hi-tech interactive kitchen where baking classes are conducted. Our impromptu session sharpens our blunt baking skills and soon we are sipping cappuccinos outside, nibbling on warm crispy puffs that we kneaded and rolled only minutes earlier. Walking to the Greenhouse, an in-house garden where veggies and herbs are grown, we learn that the Ibnii’s kitchen only uses fresh hand-pounded masalas. With a lakeside yoga pavilion on the anvil, The Ibnii takes its eco-luxe tag seriously. No wonder it has already won accolades—the best eco-luxury resort in the country and the first resort in India to acquire IGBC’s (Indian Green Building Council) Green Homes Platinum Award 2017.

The next morning, following a medley of bird calls, we set off on a nature walk & birdwatching tour with our able guide, who helps us spot 45 species of birds besides sharing fascinating stories on flora like Gloriosa superba, locally called thok poo meaning ‘gun-flower’ and tracking the hoof prints of wild deer that had wandered into the property at night. Our trail ends with duck feeding, though the round of fishing at the pond (catch and release) is thwarted by rain.

Manja Spa

The evening uncoils itself with a relaxing spa session at Manja Spa. The treatments are designed using locally-sourced ingredients (including a coffee scrub) while the techniques adopt Balinese, Swedish and traditional Ayurvedic styles.

There’s lots to do in Coorg—remarkable waterfalls, an elephant training camp, quaint monasteries, and much more that is in close proximity. But even if you like your holidays leisurely curled up inside a blanket with a cup of coffee, birdsongs and a book for company in a picturesque location, this eco-resort is the place to indulge.

The Information

Getting There:
The Kempegowda International Airport is the closest one to Coorg (280km, 5.5hr). Mysuru Junction is the nearest railway station at 95km. KSRTC buses ply from Bengaluru and Mysuru to Coorg. If you’re driving, take State Highway 17 (Bengaluru-Mysuru highway) and turn before Srirangapatna onto State Highway 88 towards Madikeri.

Where To Stay:
The Ibnii, Coorg is at Ibnivalvadi  village, 4.5km away from Madikeri town. It has 22 pool villas, called Kopi Luwak after the Asian civet coffee. Each of these comes with an indoor jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. Ten wooden cottages perched on stilts, named Arnetta, overlook a lake—they are open only to couples. Children are not allowed here due to safety concerns. (Tariff starts from ₹16,150 per night in a Kopi Luwak for a minimum stay of three nights; +91-8884990000, ibnii.com).

Where to Eat
Ibnii’s themed dining spaces take a cue from local Kodava culture. Set in a single complex called Pattole Palome (collection of silk strands, and also the title of a cultural tome on Coorg) are Baalelle (a veg restaurant with meals served on banana leaves), Masi Kande (a covered outdoor barbecue & grill, means charcoal), The Fig (multi-cuisine restaurant serving Kodava, south Indian & continental fare) and Bendhoota (a banquet hall named after a traditional post-wedding family feast).

What to See & Do
Besides local bird watching trails, responsible fishing and a bean to-cup coffee tour, the Tibetan monasteries at Bylakuppe near Kushalnagar, the elephant training camp at Dubare and sites like Raja’s Seat, Mercara Fort, Gaddige and Abbey Falls are close at hand.

source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook Traveller / Home> Stay> Story / by Anurag Mallick / August 17th, 2017

‘Sodaru’: Light On Journalism

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All, , , , , ,

Title : “Sodaru: A journey of a journalist”

Price : Rs. 140

Publisher : Adiraaj Prakashana, 245/F, 5th West Cross, Uttaradhi Mutt Road, Mysuru. For book contact: 98445-76429. E-mail: ananth.alpinia@gmail.com

This is an age of information. Thanks to the quantum development in the area of information technology like never before. Books, newspapers, radio, telephone, internet etc., enable this revolution with speed and spread of information. But behind all these media blitzkrieg and bombardment is a journalist who provides the content. Smile please!

Being a journalist, it is natural for me to evince interest in the area of journalism and all that is related to that activity.

A few days back I learnt that B.G. Anantha Shayana, the senior journalist and the consulting editor of Kannada daily ‘Shakti’, Kodagu district, who is also the correspondent of United News of India (UNI), has written a book about his experience as a journalist

Kodagu being my home district and having done my SSLC in Madikeri Government Central School and then the graduation there, the book interested me much, coming as it was from the editor of Kodagu’s first and only favourite Kannada newspaper even today. It was started in 1957 when I was in the second intermediate (1957-58). I was a witness to its founder-editor B.S. Gopalakrishna, a fair complexioned person with rotund visage, working at the slanting composing table, standing head bent over the wooden type-setting board. The press was at the landmark (for those days) “chowki”, where four roads converged. His was a gradual growth as a publisher and writer against all odds.

When I left Madikeri after graduation in the year 1959, Shakti had become a noted local paper in Madikeri spreading its wings across Kodagu. Now 65 years on, it is still an iconic newspaper in Kodagu. This was possible because of B.S. Gopalakrishna’s three sons who took over the reins and responsibility to keep the flag of success flying high. One of  the sons is B.G. Anantha Shayana, the author of the book “Sodaru”. “Sodaru” in old Kannada means light, lamp.

This book of 98 pages is all about the author’s experience as a journalist, executive and tourist abroad. He also speaks of ethical values to be followed in the profession and about the personal risk a reporter-journalist unwittingly faces in his over-enthusiasm. His every  experience is illustrated in detail and this makes the book  unputdownable for any journalist. I finished reading it in one sitting and then decided to  write this column.

Let me share some of his experiences here with my own remarks as an intervention! Anantha Shayana has in a way delivered a sermon and also given a road-map for aspiring journalists. Therefore, this book may be recommended as an optional reader for students of journalism in their graduate or post-graduate classes. I am sure many working or retired journalists, including myself, would have had similar experience if not the exact ones.

The author speaks of the importance of correct information a journalist collects and gives the example of Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamiji of Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt, Tamil Nadu. That on August 23, 1997, the Swamiji had suddenly and clandestinely left the mutt and disappeared. That naturally made national and even international news. Those days telephone communication was outdated and difficult. Author Anantha Shayana got a phone call in the morning from his friend in Talacauvery (birth place of river Cauvery) in Kodagu. The call was made by his friend after walking 8 kms from Talacauvery to the nearest telephone booth in Bhagamandala, a township. By now an all India search for the Swamiji was launched on a war-footing. The caller said, “Anantha, three days back at midnight some Swamiji has come here with a small group. When asked who he was, nobody opens mouth. Must be a very famous Swamiji.”

Author says when he went there immediately, the Swamiji’s followers did not allow him to meet the Swamiji. However, when he said he was from UNI, he was allowed on assurance that it would make all India news! So it was, he was the first person to break this news.

By the way, I too reached there with our Mysuru journalists and met him at Talacauvery. But, what is important here is that UNI did not publish the news of finding the Swamiji IMMEDIATELY. The UNI Bengaluru and Delhi Office had called Anantha Shayana over 10 times to urge him to check, check and check again and confirm. They even asked him to go to Talacauvery once again. Further, UNI sent its Mysuru correspondent to Anantha Shayana in Kodagu to go again to Talacauvery. It was only then the UNI flashed the news, though many hours late, as “Sri Jayendra Saraswathi traced.”

This is called responsible journalism and responsible journalist on the spot. Which is why the motto of Star of Mysore  printed on the second page declares: “We believe comment is free, but facts are sacred.” Sadly, these days we find more arm-chair journalists looking into a cellphone in hand, sometimes purveying fake news.

Be that as it may, I found in his one observation about the truth all the local newspaper editors and journalists come face-to-face with unlike the State and National newspapers. His observation is that what appears in those big newspapers do not embolden the reader, about whom a negative news has appeared, to directly go and attack the editor or the journalists. But the local, small-town or rural newspaper editors and journalists become direct targets of attacks and protests. Since I am a victim of this behaviour of readers, criminals, the corrupt and anti-socials, I can vouch 100 percent for what Anantha Shayana has written.

Writing about paparazzi and the British Princess Diana, the author refers to the famous photograph of her boyfriend Dodi Fayad and herself in a kissing pose under the caption “The Kiss.” He says the photographer was paid millions of dollars for this picture. However, sadly it was this obsession to take her photographs that led to the accident killing both of them. The moral Anantha Shayana says is that though a journalist should be a news hound, he should not intrude upon another person’s privacy.

We have seen on TV and read in newspapers some of our opposition leaders going abroad to Harvard, Oxford and elsewhere and giving lectures and interviews to the media criticising India, its government, its democracy and shaming India in foreign countries. But I was delighted to read in the book how the editor of a small district vernacular paper “Shakti” Anantha Shayana dealt with a delicate, despicable situation in a foreign country, Australia, where he went with seven of his friends. Anantha Shayana writes that in Australia they visited a primary school where he asked the group of six students what they knew about India. To his shock, instead of an answer he got a question from a student: Are you not afraid to live in India?

“Why should I?” said Anantha Shayana and asked, “Why do you ask me that question?” Then it became a kind of free-for-all. One said, India was a land of snakes and snake-charmers. “Do you know how to catch snakes?” another wanted to know. “Are there too many beggars? Do you have good houses to live? Do you have cars?” etc., etc. He then asked them if they had read any books on India. No, was the answer. Their opinion of India was hearsay.

Then Anantha Shayana took a class on India to them dropping famous names of politicians, Gandhiji, Generals, educationists, philosophers, space research, the heritage, culture etc. After he finished, one boy said, “I want to visit India.” When some of our opposition  leaders visited England and Europe, nobody said “I want to visit India” because they were told by our own opposition politician that India is not a good place where democracy is dying or dead.

Anantha Shayana also writes about his meeting with two spiritual persons. One was Dalai Lama at Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh.

Question: Will you wage a war against China?

Answer: Many nations in the world support us. One day we will win.

Question: But your youth organisations feel it is not possible to win back Tibet by peaceful means. What do say?

Answer: I am not in administration. I am engaged in matters spiritual. There is an elected government here in exile. They will look into it.

Question: Buddha gave up his palace and after meditating under a tree got enlightened. But you crossed Himalayas, came here and built golden temples, leading luxurious life with cars and palace-like residences.

Anantha Shayana says, Dalai Lama did not have an answer but brushed it aside saying, “These are the mischief played by monks. I don’t know anything.”

Another spiritual person Anantha Shayana mentions is one who became famous for teaching the art of living. Anantha Shayana met him when he visited Kodagu. The spiritual master told, “For propagating spiritual education I have trained 5,000 teachers. They will go to different parts of the country and teach art of living.”

According to Hindu Sanatana Dharma, only the enlightened souls can teach spiritual matters to the seekers. So Anantha Shayana asked: Are all these 5,000 teachers you have trained enlightened?

He did not like the question and he did not answer either.

Moral: Though unpalatable, the journalist must ask intelligent, probing questions.

e-mail: voice@starofmysore.com

source: http://www.starofmysore.com /Star of Mysore / Home> Columns> Abracadabra….Abracadabra / by K B Ganapathy / May 08th, 2023

Marriott Hotels Opens Doors In Coorg Infusing Rich Heritage Of World Class Hospitality

Business & Economy, Records, All, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), World Opinion, , , , , ,
Marriott Hotels Opens Doors in Coorg Infusing Rich Heritage of World Class Hospitality - Business News Week

Bangalore/Coorg :

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

Flood, landslides: Scientists told to submit ground report on Kodagu’s Harangi Reservoir

Business & Economy, Green Initiatives / Environment, Records, All

A PIL has been filed regarding this and a court case is going on. Besides, the Harangi Project Division officials have now sought a ground report from scientist

Kodagu's Harangi Reservoir
Image used for representational purposes only. (Photo | Wikimedia Commons)

Madikeri : 

Water mismanagement in Harangi Reservoir in Kodagu has been allegedly causing frequent flooding in the low-lying areas of Kushalnagar and the sudden water release in 2018 was blamed for triggering landslides in the catchment areas. 

A PIL has been filed regarding this and a court case is going on. Besides, the Harangi Project Division officials have now sought a ground report from scientists. “A team of scientists from the National Institution of Hydrology was invited to submit a ground report on Harangi Reservoir and the Cauvery Catchment areas.

With the court case underway, we have been asked to submit a report of the ground situation,” confirmed KK Raghupati, Superintending Engineer of Harangi Project Circle.  The scientists visited the reservoir and the catchment areas across Hattiholey, Nandi Motte, and Thanthipala regions near Harangi and tested the soil and groundwater levels.

As Puttaswamy confirmed, the scientists had also visited the regions in June last year. “Last year, the soil content and groundwater level were checked before the monsoon. Now, the same reports are collected during monsoon. An expert report will be readied in a week or two to be submitted to the Minor Irrigation Department and the court,” said Puttaswamy.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Pragna GR / Express News Service / August 09th, 2023

World Coffee Conference to take place in India in 2023

Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, World Opinion, , , , ,
ico wcc bangalore 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.”

For more information, click here. 

source: http://www.gcrmag.com / Global Coffee Report / Home> Profiles / by Dominic Morrell / August 08th, 2023

Bitter Coffee Prices: A worldwide bean shortage is making coffee lovers sweat espresso bullets

Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Synopsis

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.

Coffee istock

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

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

Steeped in culture and packed with wonder: Our guide to witnessing Kodagu’s grace and hospitality

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Records, All, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), , ,

Set in the heart of Kodagu (now Coorg), The Tamara Coorg crafts a scenic getaway for the discerning traveller. Surrounded by nature’s bounty and soaked in tales of history, the property gives its guests a peek into the culture and the livelihood of the people in the region.

When it comes to an experiential holiday in the hills, Coorg is the first destination that comes to mind. Previously known as ‘Kodagu’, this hill station has bragging rights to misty mountains, sprawling coffee plantations, quaint monasteries, pepper vines, and a host of other scenic delights for the discerning traveller. 

The etymology of the words “Kodava” (referring to the indigenous people, language, and culture) and “Kodagu” (referring to the land) traces back to the root word ‘Koda’ of uncertain meaning. Some speculate it signifies ‘hills’ while others suggest it signifies ‘west.’ In 1956, Kodagu (now Coorg) was established as a district and became a part of the Karnataka state.

The Land of Coffee

Kodagu thrives as the land of coffee, with the Robusta variety being its primary plantation crop. Notably, Kodagu alone contributes around 33% of India’s coffee production. The region is also renowned for its exquisite wild honey. Nestled within a 184-acre coffee estate, the Tamara Coorg resort stands as a testament to preserving the surrounding ecosystem, untouched by extensive development, making it a truly unique creation in this coffee-rich land.

The flora and fauna of Kodagu

Blessed with three wildlife sanctuaries—Brahmagiri, Talakaveri, and Pushpagiri—and the Nagarhole National Park (also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park), located within the Kodagu district, the region boasts an unparalleled wealth of flora and fauna, showcasing its remarkable biodiversity.

Kodava people

The Kodava people, also known as Kodavas, are the inhabitants of this land. They speak the Kodava language and traditionally identify as land-owning agriculturists, following a patrilineal social order deeply rooted in martial customs. Kodavas hold their ancestors and weaponry in high reverence, and uniquely, they are the only community in India permitted to carry firearms without a licence. Kodagu has also produced several notable hockey players.

Kodava festivities

Kodava festivities revolve around their agricultural practices and military traditions. The community celebrates three main festivals that are distinctive to their culture—Kail Podh, Kaveri Changrandi (Tula Sankramana), and Puthari. In recent times, under the rule of the Haleri Rajas, Kodavas have also embraced a few Hindu festivals, including Ugadi, Ayudha Puja, Dussehra, and Mahashivaratri.

Kodava trails at The Tamara Coorg

Embark on our immersive Kodava Cultural Tour and be transported to a bygone era steeped in tradition. Journey to a nearby village, where a guide will accompany you to an Ainmane, a quintessential ancestral home of the Kodava people.

Walk through the halls of the Ainmane, as it unveils its architectural marvels and treasured artefacts. Delve into the essence of Kodava heritage as you learn about their unique way of life.

Indulge in a tantalising Kodava meal that showcases the region’s authentic flavours and local ingredients. Carry with you cherished memories of the warmth and hospitality as you bid adieu to the Kodava people.

In and around Kodagu

Scouting for activities to partake in when in Kodagu? Here’s a list of destinations that are a stone’s throw from the city and are worth a visit:

  • Abbey Falls | Distance: 44 km
  • Talakaveri And Bhagamandala | Distance: 40 km
  • Bylakuppe | Distance: 76 km
  • Nalknad Palace | Distance: 7.5 km
  • Padi Igguthappa Temple | Distance: 9.2 km
  • Chelavara Falls | Distance: 13 km
  • Omkareshwara Temple | Distance: 38 km
  • Raja’s Seat and Nehru Mantap | Distance: 38 km
  • Madikeri Fort And Palace | Distance: 37 km

For more information about planning a Kodagu itinerary and booking a stay at the plush property of The Tamara Coorg, click here. 

source: http://www.cnntraveller.in / Conde Nast Traveller / Home> India> Hotels & Resorts / by The Tamara Coorg / August 04th, 2023

Uplift of Small Farmers drives this Bengaluru Coffee Start-up

Business & Economy, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Records, All, , ,

Ex-banker Soomanna Mandepanda and his wife, Puja Soomanna set up their startup Humblebean in 2017 to ensure better prices and reach for small coffee farmers and improve every part of the value chain.

Uplift of small farmers drives this Bengaluru coffee startup

For former banker Soomanna Mandepanda, the motivation for setting up Humblebean was not just to sell the best coffees, but more importantly, uplift the small and medium Indian farmers who grow them. 

In the process, he is trying to bring about changes at almost each stage of the business — from cultivation and supply chain to research and education. 

Founded in 2017 by Soomanna and his wife and former Yahoo executive Puja Soomanna, Bengaluru-based Humblebean works on an omnichannel model: It ties up with small coffee farmers in south India, roasts and grounds supply, provides the beans to roasters, exports its products, operates brew bars, and has an online presence. 

A responsible way to grow coffee 

The coffee drinking experience has been gaining traction in India, with the market for the brew expected to record a compound annual growth rate of 7.2 percent during 2021-25, according to a January 2021 Statista report. 

Startups including Sleepy Owl, The Flying Squirrel, and Coffeeza, as well as shops such as Third Wave Coffee Roasters are making their presence felt in the market. 

India is the world’s sixth-largest producer of coffee and fifth in terms of exports; in fact, 70 percent of its production is exported, says a January 2021 report by the India Brand Equity Foundation. Yet, Soomanna says, “a lot of small and medium farmers and farms aren’t getting the kind of business and reach they should”. 

Soomanna would know: he spent most of his childhood on the coffee estates of Coorg and was a small farmer before moving to the world of finance and banking for 13 years. One way to correct the imbalance, he says, is by “making great biodiverse coffee that farms in India are already poised to do”.  

According to him, 80-90 percent of coffee farms in India are held by small and medium farmers, whose secondary income comes from crops such as jackfruit, avocado, pepper, and orange that are part of the same farms. 

Cultivating other crops alongside coffee “ensures automatic carbon sequestration, top soil replenishment, and lesser need to feed chemicals unlike commercial crops grown in other countries”, says Soomanna. “The mining of the minerals is automatic and you become carbon neutral.” 

Humblebean
Puja Soomanna

Advocating farmer-friendly norms 

Increasingly popular among young consumers are organic, speciality, and Rainforest Alliance coffees that respectively employ natural methods of cultivation dispensing with harmful chemicals, are of the highest grade being derived from a single origin or single estate, and protect the environment as well as worker rights. 

However, in India these certified varieties are grown largely on rich estates; most small and medium farmers cannot afford the costly certifications and grades.   

Coffee cultivation and the business are still quite unorganised in India, the certifications cost a lot of money, and need constant follow-ups, says Soomanna. 

“The norms are difficult to adhere to for most small farmers. It is a replication of an American model.”

______________________

He says most large corporations in India export to Europe. “The small companies in Hassan, Chikmagalur, etc. certify about 150 estates and add the tags. But the farmer doesn’t get the price because the better prices are still being fetched with the local trader. The local traders are important, but the real traceability is lost.” 

As farmers don’t get better prices, there is little driving them to improve their produce, he says. “Speciality coffee is something few farmers can afford to grow.” 

Hence, the need to bring in farmer-friendly rules, he says.

Humblebean
The Humblebean coffee

Promoting social value investing

Given the largely unorganised state of affairs, Humblebean focused on getting farmers on board. The team collected random samples, tasted them, and guided farmers on growing the beans in a better way. 

By 2018, the team had got 50-60 farmers on board and given them assessment reports free of cost. Until then, the startup was in its pre-revenue stages, bootstrapped with funds from family and friends. 

The team then focused on getting roasters to directly buy from farmers. For this, it adopted the idea of social value investing, in which everyone who is part of the value chain comes together to solve a problem and there is money in it for all. 

_______________________

“Once we got the farmers on board, we decided to tie up with brands and introduce them to the new portfolios of coffees,” says Soomanna. “We incubated close to four different brands in India from scratch to start a unique brand with a different blend. The idea was to bring in multiple partnerships and inclusiveness in the farming community on one platform.” 

Most of the speciality coffee firms have restricted names and types of beans grown on particular estates. “The idea is to bring in more brands that can access different estates, work with them, and encourage the farmers,” says Soomanna. 

Humblebean also fulfils the complete roast and ground process for such brands and even gives them a credit facility, he says. 

Humblebean

Quality comes with education 

Towards the end of 2018 and early 2019, the Humblebean team found that coffees served at most star hotels weren’t up to the mark. 

One of the reasons for this, Soomanna says, is that coffee as education is lacking in hotel management schools: one has to go to Italy to learn more about its nuances. The Coffee Board of India mostly takes care of the functionality, he says. 

___________________________

“We met a few management schools and after some discussions it was decided that the colleges would look at it as part of the curriculum,” says Soomanna. 

Brewing innovative Indian blends

Even as Humblebean works to improve every part of the value chain, it is trying to offer consumers a very Indian coffee drinking experience.

To that end, the startup opened its first Brew Bar in the food experience section of a workspace on Bengaluru’s Residency Road in 2019. Humblebean was one of the early members of that workspace set up by a Singapore-based company. 

Puja, who conceptualised Brew Bar, spent time innovating the blends with the use of Indian robustas.  

“We don’t serve a single cup of speciality coffee; we wanted to make sure through the brewing methods can small and medium farmers come into mainstream brewing?” says Soomanna. 

_______________________

He says these Indian blends “aren’t being used by a single new-age speciality coffee company” as they are considered “harsh and used as a filler across the world. But they are unique and you need great expertise and experience to make a robusta out of them”. 

Following research and development, the startup has also come up with its own set of products. Together with B2B partners, it has launched these products online and will soon sell them at other marketplaces. The range is priced at Rs 220-350 for 250 gm for limited editions and depending on the roast. 

“Indian coffees can have a global impact,” says Soomanna. “The idea is to be farmer-friendly and also not cause too much environmental damage. We want to bring an amazing cup of coffee from the farms the way it should be drunk.”

Edited by Lena Saha

source: http://www.yourstory.com / YourStory / Home> / by Sindhu Kashyaap / edited by Lena Saha / February 07th, 2021

Karnataka gives impetus to coffee with focus on sustainability

Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, Records, All, World Opinion, , , , , ,

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

Madikeri to get critical care center on KIMS campus

Business & Economy, Records, All, Science & Technology, , , ,

MP urges CM to release an additional sum of ₹70 crore for the 450-bed teaching hospital of Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences.

Pratap Simha, MP, at the meeting on KIMS in Madikeri on Friday. Deputy Commissioner Venkatraja is also seen. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha on Friday urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to release an additional sum of ₹70 crore for the completion of a 450-bed teaching hospital for Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in Madikeri. A sum of ₹100 crore had been released for the hospital project and additional funds are essential for completing the works, he added.

Earlier, the MP held a meeting with the officials and doctors of KIMS on establishing a critical care center on the KIMS premises in Madikeri. The proposed center has been estimated to cost₹29 crore, he said.

Engineer Rajesh told the meeting that the critical care center has been proposed on 45-cent land on the KIMS campus and the tender process had also been done. He said the general wards of the teaching hospital of the KIMS are likely to be completed by November. The works need additional funds for completion, he said, adding that the critical care center will be completed in the next 15 months.

Mr. Simha told the officials to send the proposal on a critical care center to the government for the funds. MRI equipment for the teaching hospital and the mother and child hospital for Kodagu has become essential for improving public healthcare services, he added.

The hospital doctors and staff told the MP about the need for constructing quarters for the KIMS staff. In reply, the MP said suitable land for the staff quarters will be provided.

The concerned engineers told the meeting that the land on Murnad Road belonged to the KIMS and the same land parcel can be used for building KIMS’ staff quarters.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / July 28th, 2023