Category Archives: Business & Economy

‘406 schools damaged in rain in Kodagu to be repaired’

Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju on Friday said that instructions have been issued to take up immediate repair works at 71 anganwadis and 406 schools in the district.

Speaking to reporters in Madikeri on Friday, Mr. Boseraju said 77 houses were damaged in rains in May and June, and compensation has already been distributed. Around 2,364 electricity poles and 22 transformers have been replaced.

Under the Shakti scheme, 500 crore women passengers have travelled across the State, with 1.20 crore in Kodagu district alone, he claimed. The government had borne an expenditure of ₹50 crore for the scheme, he added.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / The Hindu Bureau / July 11th, 2025

Ph.D for landslide susceptibility research in Kodagu

Mysore/Mysuru:

Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi, has conferred the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree on G.A. Arpitha for her research titled “Landslide Susceptibility Mapping for Kodagu Region using Machine Learning Techniques.”

Her work was carried out under the guidance of Dr. A. L. Choodarathnakara, Professor and Head of the Electronics and Communication (E&C) Department at Government Engineering College (GEC), Karwar.

As part of her research, Arpitha developed a comprehensive landslide susceptibility map and a detailed landslide inventory for Kodagu district. The dataset has been made publicly available to aid future research and enhance disaster management efforts.

She is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Institute of Technology (SDMIT), Ujire.

Arpitha is married to P.G. Yashavanth, a serving member of the Indian Air Force. She is the daughter of G.N. Achaiah, a retired BSNL employee and Vedavathi, a retired teacher.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / July 07th, 2025

Hotel Review: A Refreshing Break At Coorg Wild Walk By CGH Earth

Nestled in a coffee estate near Nagarhole’s Kutta Gate, Coorg Wild Walk by CGH Earth is a four-bedroom immersive retreat for those who seek nature’s quiet charm.

Coorg Wild Walk by CGH EarthSourced

My journey to Coorg Wild Walk by CGH Earth began in Delhi, which was sweltering at 40°C. A quick flight landed me in Bengaluru, and the city welcomed me with the gentlest breeze and cloudy skies as if someone had hit refresh on the weather. The shift was almost cinematic.

From there, we hit the road, a long, winding, 240-250 km stretch that slowly peeled away the layers of city life. Concrete gave way to curves of green, rustling leaves replaced honks, and the air grew dense with the smell of wet earth and roasted coffee. We took the Nagarhole route to Coorg, which was one of the best decisions of the trip. Tall, dense forests looked straight out of a rainforest documentary. Pine trees lined the roads like they were greeting you. The postcard views were only getting better as we drove further.

The monsoon was in full swing, with dramatic grey clouds rolling across the sky, casting flickering shadows over hills and plantations. Every turn brought a surprise: wild boars darting across the road, a family of deer grazing peacefully, birds fluttering overhead in sudden flashes of colour. I kept the car window down the entire time. Not even once did I feel like shutting the world out. It was more than just a ride; it was a slow transition into the wilderness.

The Stay: Coorg Wild Walk by CGH Earth

A glimpse of a room at Coorg Wild Walk by CGH EarthSourced

After nearly eight hours on the road, we arrived. But instead of exhaustion, I felt a sense of quietude. The welcome was warm and grounding — a chilled cultural drink in hand and a cool towel to freshen up. Even though we were right on the forest’s edge, it didn’t feel isolating. The villa is designed to blur the line between indoors and outdoors, with massive glass windows that open into dense greenery, open verandahs that double as dining spaces, and a living room so cosy you’ll find yourself curled up with a book without even trying.

Inside, everything feels natural: reclaimed wood furniture, soft, warm lighting, bamboo accents, and handpicked Kodava artefacts that give the space a distinct cultural identity. My room had a large window with the best nature shots — I would sit there for hours with soft music playing, watching jackfruit trees sway, wildflowers bloom, and coffee plants ripple under the wind. Alarms didn’t mark mornings, but by the soft drip of rain, birds singing like lullabies, and the gentle rustle of animals waking up in the forest.

Property manager Lokesh Gowda told me about a leopard that once came and slept at the villa’s doorstep. “It’s his home, too,” he said with a chuckle. Elephants sometimes break through the electric fence at night. “Midnight feasts,” he added casually. Equal parts scary and fascinating, but mostly just humbling.

Dining At Coorg Wild Walk by CGH Earth

Enjoy a meal in the lap of nature at Coorg Wild Walk by CGH EarthSource

If the surroundings calmed my soul, the food healed everything else. Dinner on day one was like coming home to a table laid out by someone who knows exactly what comfort tastes like. Sitting down to a very inviting plate, it pulled me in before the first bite.

There was a crispy Aloo Gobhi Fry that had the perfect crunch and spice, a tangy Pineapple Curry that was equal parts sweet and sour with the fragrance of tempered mustard seeds dancing in the background, and a Spinach Curry that was silky, creamy, and comforting — like the green equivalent of a warm hug. The Coorg-style chicken was rich, peppery, and fell off the bone, while the mutton was slow-cooked till it melted with every bite. And don’t even get me started on the buttery carrot soup; it was thick, velvety, and carried this earthy sweetness that made me smile mid-sip.

Breakfast the next morning was just as dreamy. A spread of fresh fruits, grilled tomatoes, eggs made to order, warm potato tikkis, and sausages sizzling on the side. But it was the local dishes that stole my heart. Kadambuttu, those soft rice balls, soaked up the curry like they were made for each other. Neer Dosas, light and lacy, melted in the mouth. And the Akki Roti, hearty and wholesome, had the flavour that only wood-fired griddles can bring. The grand finale was a warm bowl of Paruppu Payasam — moong dal, jaggery, coconut, and dry fruits, slow-cooked into a sweet, sticky heaven. It was so good that I didn’t know whether to eat it or frame it.

And the best part? All this while sitting outside, under a canopy of trees, with birdsong as your playlist and clouds moving above like nature’s screensaver.

Nearby Experiences

A glimpse of the property / Sourced

Of course, no trip to Coorg Wild Walk is complete without a proper safari. With the Kutta Gate of Nagarhole Tiger Reserve just 3 km away, I set out early one cold morning, jacketless (rookie mistake) but buzzing with excitement.

Nagarhole, or the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a massive 847.98 sq. km sprawl of protected jungle, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Its core zones are tiger territory, but the entire area is teeming with life. Our safari began at dawn with only a few jeeps ahead, which meant less noise and more chance to spot animals in their element.

As we rumbled deeper into the forest, the rain-soaked leaves shimmered, and mist clung to the tree trunks. We saw Chital, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and even a herd of elephants walking gracefully through the undergrowth. Bright peacocks called from the branches above, and the elusive Indian Giant Squirrel darted like a flash of rust-red through the canopy.

It happened when I had given up hope of a big cat sighting. I spotted a leopard. Calm, unbothered, regal. She walked slowly, elegantly, just a few feet from us. Our eyes met for a second, hers wild and ancient, mine wide with awe. It felt like a shared moment. No roars, no drama, just quiet understanding. The kind you remember long after the ride ends.

The Extras that Make It Whole.

CGH Earth ensures this isn’t just a place you stay. It’s a place you feel. From guided plantation walks where you get to understand the journey of coffee from bean to cup, to peaceful birdwatching sessions and barbecue nights under star-splashed skies, every day has something new to offer. The property is not for the rushed. It’s for those who want to listen more than they speak. For those who like slow mornings, long books, deep conversations, and wild silences. It’s a place where nature doesn’t just surround you — it includes you.

The Information | Coorg Wild Walk by CGH Earth

Address: K Badaga, Nanachi Estate, Kutta, Karnataka 571250

Tariff: Starts at INR 13,571 per night. This includes breakfast and Wi-Fi (excludes taxes). Please note that the prices vary from season to season.

How to reach Coorg?

Coorg is around a 6–7 hour drive from Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. You can hire a taxi or take a private cab. Alternatively, you can fly into Mangalore International Airport (IXE) or Mysore Airport (MYQ). Mangalore is about 140–160 km away, while Mysore is closer, at around 120–130 km.

When is the best time to visit Coorg?

Coorg is a year-round destination. For pleasant, cool weather, visit between mid-November and mid-February. The monsoon months (June to September) transform Coorg into a lush green escape, but expect heavy rainfall and slower city life. Flooding may occur in certain areas, so plan accordingly.

For bookings and other details check their website: www.cghearth.com/coorgwildwalk/

source: http://www.outlooktraveller.com/ Outlook Traveller / Home> Stay> by Mithi Singh / July 01st, 2025

₹50 crore for development works in Madikeri: Minister

Minister for Municipalities Administration Rahim Khan speaking during his visit to Madikeri on Wednesday. MLA Mantar Gowda and Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja are seen. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Municipal Administration Minister Rahim Khan inaugurated the newly constructed Town Municipal Council (TMC) office building at Kushalnagar in Kodagu. The facility has been built at a cost of ₹7 crore.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday, the Minister announced that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had approved the release of ₹50 crore for various development projects in the Madikeri Assembly Constituency.

Mr. Khan said allocations would be released in phases for development works. He announced the launch of three additional Indira Canteens in the constituency. Each canteen is expected to serve breakfast and lunch to more than 300 people daily, he added.

Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda said the new municipal office was spacious and well-equipped, adding that Kushalnagar was likely to be upgraded to a City Municipality in future. He proposed the installation of a statue of former Chief Minister R. Gundu Rao on the premises in recognition of his contributions to the town’s development.

He said the merger of several gram panchayats, including Guddehosur with Kushalnagar TMC, strengthened its case for elevation to City Municipality status.

The Minister inspected the Indira Canteen near the KSRTC bus stand.

source: http://www.thehindul.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / June 12th, 2025

A rain gauge in Kodagu that can never do its job!

Ponnampet:

Relentless rains continue to lash Kodagu, pushing rivers and streams well above the danger mark. Authorities have evacuated residents from low-lying areas and declared a holiday for all schools and colleges today, as the region remained under a red alert issued until 8 am this morning.

But as Kodagu battles the fury of nature, its most critical weather monitoring tools are failing. Of the 104 Telemetric Rain Gauges (TRGs) installed across the district, 56 — over 54 percent — are non-functional. Shockingly, there is no clear timeline for when these essential devices will be restored.

In a glaring act of official negligence, a TRG installed at Kanoor Gram Panchayat in Ponnampet Taluk — an area known for heavy rainfall — has been placed under a roof. Ironically, it is installed to measure rain but placed where it does not rain.

This baffling decision has rendered the gauge completely useless. With not a drop of rain reaching the sensor, accurate data from this high-rainfall zone is lost. Residents said that the TRG was installed two months ago and nothing has been done to rectify the construction anomaly. 

Furious residents have flayed the Panchayat for such incompetence, calling out the lack of basic common sense and waste of public funds. TRGs are vital for real-time rainfall data collection and help agencies like the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) issue timely flood alerts and coordinate emergency responses.

With more rain forecast and rivers swelling dangerously, the failure to properly install and maintain these gauges could cost lives, and underscores a disturbing lack of preparedness to face the monsoon.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / June 26th, 2025

Abandoned hilltop houses tell a tale of destruction in Madikeri

People looking at the devastation near Raja Seat at Indira Nagar in Madikeri.

The abandoned localities on the hilltops near the Raja Seat in Madikeri town, which bore the brunt of landslips, are testimony to the devastation here. People are thronging the roads leading to the dwellings to understand the scale of destruction from a safe distance.

Though tourist arrivals have dropped drastically following the Deputy Commissioner’s diktat to hotels and homestays to not accept bookings until August 31, people carrying relief from various places and those from adjoining places bordering the district are thronging these places to see the destruction that has struck the coffee land this month.

The police have established a check-post near Raja Seat to prevent people from closing in where the remaining houses in Indira Nagar and Sri Chamundeshwari Nagar, the adjoining residential hubs, are delicately positioned. They are facing the looming threat of the earth caving in any time. All the residents had been evacuated to safer places and relief camps.

“The devastation is much bigger in the interior parts which have no access because of damage to roads. Therefore, people are coming to the town to see the havoc,” a local said.

‘Disaster tourism’

Madikeri MLA Appachu Ranjan said VIPs visiting Kodagu to understand the scale of devastation need to bring their escorts with them instead of depending on the local police and officials to usher them to the sites. If a large number of people accompany high-profile visitors, it will hamper the ongoing relief works, he said.

“Deployment of local officers on such visits may end up in relief work getting hindered despite the fact that officers from other districts have been deputed to oversee works,” he argued. “Local officers need to be on duty for relief and rescue since they are aware of the terrain. Deploying outstation officers will not serve the purpose. I have conveyed this to the Minister in charge of Kodagu district, S.R. Mahesh, and Deputy Commissioner P.I. Sreevidya.”

Meanwhile, the district officials and staff have been strictly told not to avail leave for at least a fortnight in order to assist with the relief and rebuilding works.

A woman Madikeri Zilla Panchayat employee said: “We have been told to put off our leave and stay in the headquarters for attending to the relief and other important works.”

An engineer attached to the Public Works Department, who is overseeing the roadworks, said, “Until the situation becomes stable, it may not be possible to avail leave, considering the devastation and the works to be carried out on a war footing.”

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Shankar Bennur / August 23rd, 2025

Coffee futures prices soar on frost threat in Brazil, recovering from last week’s lows in both markets

Stirring up the markets were weather updates from Brazil, where a cold front of polar air is approaching. This could bring frost to some areas of Paraná, São Paulo and southern Minas Gerais, although not comparable, according to forecasters, to the winter 2021 events, which caused significant damage to crops.

Roasted coffee beans (credits: Ri Butov from Pixabay)

In the first winter session (austral winter, of course), fears of frost in Brazil caused coffee futures to surge, with a strong recovery seen yesterday, Monday 23 June 2025. In New York, the September contract gained over 3.6% (+1,150 points) to close 326.55 cents. In London, the September contract soared to $3,904, nearly 4.5% higher than the previous session’s settlement.

Stirring up the markets were weather updates from Brazil, where a cold front of polar air is approaching.

This could bring frost to some areas of Paraná, São Paulo and southern Minas Gerais, although not comparable, according to forecasters, to the winter 2021 events, which caused significant damage to crops.

Analysts expect New York coffee futures to trade within the 320–360 cent range in the near future.

According to Safras & Mercado, 43% of the Brazilian harvest was complete by 18 June. This figure is slightly lower than last year (44%), but higher than the five-year historical average (40%).

As for Robusta, Gil Barabach, analyst at S&M, reports “harvesting operations have progressed at a good pace in the last week, helped by favourable weather conditions”.

The Robusta harvest is 58% complete, compared to 62% last year. It should be noted that this year’s harvest is expected to be a record one.

The Arabica harvest advanced eight percentage points in one week reaching 34% of the estimated total. This is slightly below last year’s figure of 35%, but well above the historical average of 30%

“Overall, this year’s crop profile remains positive compared to last year, with an improvement in terms of coffee screen size,” added Barabach.

Meanwhile, Indian exports are booming. The Coffee Board of India reports that exports in FY2024/25 increased in value by 40.2% to over $1.8 billion. The main destinations included Italy, Germany, Russia, Belgium, the UAE and the US.

source: http://www.comunicaffe.com / International Comunicafe / Home> Markets & Trade> Reports & Statistics / June 24th, 2025

India’s coffee exports soar with 125% growth in shipments

As per the data, exports stood at $1.28 billion in 2023–24, compared to $1.14 billion in 2022–23. Europe continues to be the top destination for Indian coffee, with key markets including Italy, Germany, Belgium, Middle East nations, South Korea.

India’s coffee exports have surged by 125 per cent over the past 11 years, touching $1.8 billion in 2023–24, up from $800 million in 2014–15, according to central government data. The rise in exports has been attributed to a series of policy measures implemented by the Coffee Board of India, including digitalisation of permits, export incentives, and support for value addition in processing.

As per the data, exports stood at $1.28 billion in 2023–24, compared to $1.14 billion in 2022–23. Europe continues to be the top destination for Indian coffee, with key markets including Italy, Germany, Belgium, Middle East nations, South Korea and Japan.

To bolster exports, the Coffee Board has taken steps such as digital issuance of RCMC, export permits and certificates of origin, regular engagement with exporters to address bottlenecks, and providing global market intelligence. Additionally, the government has introduced transit and freight assistance, offering Rs 3 per kg for value-added exports and Rs 2 per kg for high-value green coffee shipments to far-off markets such as the US, Canada, Japan, and Nordic countries. To further aid domestic processors and entrepreneurs, the Board offers 40% subsidy on machinery costs, capped at Rs 15 lakh, for roasting, grinding and packaging units.

India, the seventh-largest coffee producer globally with a 3.5% share, ranks fifth in exports with a 5% global share. The country produces about 3.6 lakh tonnes of coffee annually, with Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu being top growers. The sector directly and indirectly supports around 2 million people.

source: http://www.maritimegateway.com / Maritime Gateway / Home> Government> Exim / June 24th, 2025

A veggie paradise of taste

With its plant-based cuisines, Twisted Basil is a sanctuary for vegetarian travellers to Coorg.

Perched amidst the verdant embrace of Timbertales Luxury Resort in Coorg, Twisted Basil stands out as a feast for both the eyes and the palate—a pure‑vegetarian sanctuary where plant‑based cuisine is elevated to an art.

If you are looking for an interesting tasting menu on your next trip to Coorg, look no further than Twisted Basil that offers a choice of tasting menu that include Pan Asian, Continental as well as a Chef’s Choice option, which is a mix of what is in season and fresh produce of the day.

Food: The continental menu starts with the first course called ‘starting savoury’. The Creamy Carrot Soup is hearty, served with a hint of basil oil. The Carpaccio Di Barbabietola salad with roasted beetroot carpaccio, navel orange and goat cheese is delicious. Next up is the Frittelle Di Zucchine e Parmigiano—crispy fritters made with grated Zucchini and Parmesan cheese, served with a tangy tomato and basil dip. It hits the right spot with its mellow flavours. The Cannelloni Spinach—a tender coconut and pineapple granita is a perfect for the main course. For dessert, the Barretta Di Cioccolato Croccante, a crunchy chocolate bar with salted caramel and white pearls, is a sweet end to the meal.

Service: The service is excellent with the staff explaining each course and ingredients well.

Décor: Set over water, framed by lush bamboo and ambient fountains, the restaurant pairs bold, globally inspired flavours with a serene, tropical backdrop—perfect for travellers seeking a refined and memorable dining adventure.

Price: The price is on the higher end, a meal for two costs Rs 10,000 without taxes.

Address: No. 94/2, Kedakal Post, Modur, Madikeri, Karnataka – 571237.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Food / by Bindu Gopal Rao / June 22nd, 2025

Metro Station in Bengaluru to be named after Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa: CM

Bengaluru:

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured that one of the metro stations in Bengaluru will soon be named after Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief.

He made this announcement on Sunday during a felicitation ceremony organised by the Kodava Samaja Bengaluru at the Kodava Samudaya Bhavana in Vasanthnagar. The event honoured Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar for allocating seven acres of land to the community in the State capital.

He said that the proposal to name a metro station after Field Marshal Cariappa will be placed before the Cabinet, and a final decision will be taken shortly.

For years, the Kodava community has been urging the State Government and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to honour Cariappa’s legacy in this manner.

In July 2024, members of Kodava Samaja formally submitted a request to BMRCL Managing Director Maheshwar Rao, reiterating the demand to name a metro station after the iconic military figure. Praising the Kodava community’s contributions, Siddaramaiah lauded its inclusive spirit, highlighting that Kodavas respect all Indians regardless of caste or religion.

He also expressed confidence in the political future of Kodagu MLAs A.S. Ponnanna (Virajpet) and Dr. Manthar Gowda (Madikeri), describing Ponnanna as an emerging firebrand leader comparable to the late A.K. Subbaiah and M.C. Nanaiah, known for their socially conscious speeches in the legislature.

Deputy CM Shivakumar appealed to the Kodava community to continue supporting Congress government. “Our government has initiated many programmes for you. We have allotted land to families of Armed Forces personnel, appointed Kodavas to Rajya Sabha and ensured representation in the legislature. Recognising this legacy, we request your continued support,” he said.

He pointed out that the Government’s decision to allot seven acres of land in Bengaluru to Kodava Samaja comes with only nominal financial concessions, underscoring that no price tag can match the community’s discipline, sacrifice and patriotism.

“We must safeguard our traditions and culture. Your dedication is beyond monetary value,” he added.

The event was attended by Ministers K. J. George, Krishna Byregowda, Byrathi Suresh, MLA Rizwan Arshad, MLAs A.S. Ponnanna and Dr. Manthar Gowda and Bengaluru Kodava Samaja President Karavattira Pemmaiah, among others.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 19th, 2025