Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy speaking at the valediction of the centenary celebrations of the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) at Balehonnur in Chikkamagaluru district on December 22. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H. D. Kumaraswamy, has assured coffee growers of Karnataka that he would make prompt efforts to find solutions to their problems, including those caused by the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act).
Speaking at the valedictory of the centenary celebrations of the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) at Balehonnur in Chikkamagaluru district on Monday, Mr. Kumaraswamy said he understood the problems being faced by coffee growers because of the SARFAESI Act that empowers banks and lenders to seize and auction borrower’s property after they default on loans.
The Union Minister suggested that coffee growers take a delegation to Delhi and he would join them in convincing the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the issue. “I will make honest efforts to resolve your problems,” he promised.
Responding to the growers’ demand for loans at the interest rate of 3%, Mr. Kumaraswamy said coffee growers, who bring in significant foreign exchange, deserve the benefit. Many large industries received subsidies in crores of rupees, so why not the coffee growers? he questioned.
Referring to forest laws that are tough on encroachers, Mr. Kumaraswamy stated the Forest Department officials had been harassing coffee growers, citing various court orders. During his first tenure as Chief Minister, he tried to resolve them and formed a committee of officers under the chairmanship of then Revenue Secretary S. M. Jaamdar. However, the efforts he initiated did not move further after he lost power, he said.
On the human-wildlife conflict affecting growers, the Minister recalled that during his tenure as Chief Minister, he began the work to install rail barricades to stop the movement of wild elephants to human habitats. However, the work did not progress after his term ended.
Mr. Kumaraswamy opined that twice he became Chief Minister accidentally. He had specific plans for strengthening the farm sector and village economy if he had got a chance to rule the State for five years.
Coffee Board chairman M.J. Dinesh, T.D. Raje Gowda, Sringeri MLA, S.L. Bhoje Gowda, MLC, H.K. Suresh, Belur MLA, and others were present at the valedictory programme.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India > Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / December 22nd, 2025
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurating the centenary celebration of the Central Coffee Research Institute at Balehonnur in Chikkamagaluru on December 20. | Photo Credit: SUDHAKARA JAIN
The Coffee Board of India has taken sustained initiatives in promoting Indian coffee in domestic as well as global markets, and from now on, more thrust should be given to identity (estate origin) and quality of coffees, said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.
He was speaking at the opening session of the centenary celebration of Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) at Balehonnur in Chikkamagaluru district on December 20.
Appreciating the Coffee Board’s contribution towards the growth of the commodity over several decades, Mr. Goyal said that India, being the fifth-largest producer and the third-largest exporter of coffee, has a good standing in the global coffee market.
On the economic impact of coffee, the Minister said that 80% of India’s coffee production is exported to 120 countries, supporting approximately over two million families in India and contributing around ₹20,000 crore to the economy.
Addressing an audience comprising ministers, ambassadors, coffee farmers, processors, startups, and researchers at CCRI via video, the Minister said, “There is a critical need to secure the unique identity of Indian coffee and celebrate its indigenous origin. This requires applying quality practices from the land level itself. Quality will help it cross international boundaries easily,” the Minister said.
Acknowledging CCRI’s contributions in the last 100 years or so, Mr. Goyal said the planters’ community, coffee industry, and government should look forward to its role in the next century as a leader responsible for developing more climate-resilient and sturdy coffee varieties.
The Coffee Board of India has taken sustained initiatives in promoting Indian coffee in domestic as well as global markets, and from now on, more thrust should be given to identity (estate origin) and quality of coffees, said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.
He was speaking at the opening session of the centenary celebration of Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) at Balehonnur in Chikkamagaluru district on December 20.
Appreciating the Coffee Board’s contribution towards the growth of the commodity over several decades, Mr. Goyal said that India, being the fifth-largest producer and the third-largest exporter of coffee, has a good standing in the global coffee market.
On the economic impact of coffee, the Minister said that 80% of India’s coffee production is exported to 120 countries, supporting approximately over two million families in India and contributing around ₹20,000 crore to the economy.
Addressing an audience comprising ministers, ambassadors, coffee farmers, processors, startups, and researchers at CCRI via video, the Minister said, “There is a critical need to secure the unique identity of Indian coffee and celebrate its indigenous origin. This requires applying quality practices from the land level itself. Quality will help it cross international boundaries easily,” the Minister said.
Acknowledging CCRI’s contributions in the last 100 years or so, Mr. Goyal said the planters’ community, coffee industry, and government should look forward to its role in the next century as a leader responsible for developing more climate-resilient and sturdy coffee varieties.
Mr. Goyal also called for continued efforts in protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity, and maintaining soil quality, ensuring that coffee plantations continue to yield good quality coffee.
Speaking on the occasion, K.J. George, Minister for Energy and district in-charge Minister of Chikkamagaluru, said coffee cultivation in Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, and Hassan, as well as the overall role of these coffee heartlands, are playing a critical role in bringing global recognition to Indian coffee growers.
Two new coffee varieties launched
The Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) at Balehonnur, Chikkmagaluru, as part of its centenary celebrations, introduced two new arabica coffee varieties that are high-yielding and tolerant to white stem borer (WSB) and leaf rust disease.
Releasing the new varieties, Union Minister for Consumers Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi stressed the need to do good marketing of Indian coffees, while exploring the market both in the country and abroad. To extend the acceptability of Indian coffees, there is a need for production of good quality and residue-free coffees while improving the packaging and skills, he said.
According to several planters, the new varieties are available at a time when coffee growers are increasingly facing climate-related challenges including erratic rainfall and a huge rise in the incidence of pests and diseases such as white stem borer and leaf rust, among others, which have brought down the arabica yield.
The CCRI, established in 1925 and currently situated on a sprawling 280 acres, has so far released 13 varieties of arabica and three robusta selections. Coffee Board Chairman M.J. Dinesh said CCRI holds a unique position globally in coffee research.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India > Karnataka / by Mini Tejaswi / December 21st, 2025
Coffee Board Rolls Out INDICOFS Standard & Certification Scheme For Domestic Coffee Industry
New Delhi : (KNN)
The Coffee Board of India on Saturday launched the Indian Coffee Sustainability (INDICOFS) Standard and Certification Scheme, marking a significant step toward strengthening sustainability practices in the domestic coffee sector.
Phased Coverage Across the Value Chain
Developed as an initiative of the Coffee Board, the INDICOFS framework is aimed at preparing Indian coffee to respond to rapidly evolving global sustainability requirements.
In its initial phase, the standard and certification scheme will apply to coffee growers, with plans to gradually extend coverage across the entire coffee value chain.
Tiered Certification Structure
The certification framework introduces three progressive levels to enable a structured transition toward sustainability.
The entry-level certification is designed primarily for smallholder growers and will be implemented directly by the Coffee Board.
The advanced levels—Levels 2 and 3—will involve independent certification bodies accredited in accordance with ISO 17065 standards.
Level 3 is envisaged to align with leading international sustainability benchmarks and is expected to be formally benchmarked against global standards over time.
Policy and Trade Implications
The scheme is the outcome of nearly a year of technical work by a Core Technical Committee constituted by the Coffee Board.
Officials indicated that the certification is intended to support sustainable production practices, facilitate exports, and help the Indian coffee industry align with emerging international regulatory requirements, including the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Further expansion of the scope and coverage of the certification scheme is expected in the coming year as the Coffee Board works to deepen its sustainability framework for the sector.
Coffee pickers at Tsiese Coffee Estate sort freshly harvested ripe cherries before fermentation
Tsiese Coffee Beans claims back-to-back titles at Coffee Board of India’s flagship competition.
For decades, India’s coffee landscape, both commercial and specialty, has been dominated by established estates from the South. But Nagaland’s Lhouvilie Yhor, proprietor of Tsiese Coffee Beans, is steadily altering the picture by placing the state on India’s specialty coffee map.
The self-taught grower from Tsiesema village, Kohima, who is an architect by profession, won at the Coffee Board of India’s Know Your Kaapi (KYK) competition this year, marking one of the most significant recognitions yet for a Northeastern coffee producer.
In a field traditionally led by plantations from Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Yhor emerged among the top performers, securing the Arabica Naturals title for his Tsiesema-grown beans. His 2025 win follows last year’s performance, when Tsiese Coffee Beans won the Arabica Washed category.
The KYK competition, held annually by the Coffee Board of India, evaluates entries across Arabica washed, naturals and experimental categories, as well as Robusta washed, naturals, experimental and alternative species. This event is regarded as the country’s most demanding cupping competition. Beans undergo multiple blind cupping rounds, scored for clarity, sweetness, complexity, processing discipline and consistency.
Lhouvilie Yhor, Proprietor of Tsiese Coffee Estate.
“Competing against century-old plantations from Karnataka and Kerala and still winning is a major achievement for a grower from the North-East,” Yhor said. “Recognition from the Coffee Board and the CCRI tells you your coffee meets the highest scientific standards in the country.”
Yhor began cultivating Arabica in 2015 with 10,000 saplings from the Nagaland Land Resources Department. Coffee cultivation in the state had failed in the 1980s, but he said government support, technical guidance from the Coffee Board of India and his persistence kept him going.
Yhor operates under the brand Tsiese Coffee Beans. Apart from his own estates in Tsiesema and Zhadima, he sources cherries from smallholders in Touphema, Chiechama, Nerhema, Tseminyu, VK Town (Zunheboto) and Yimchalu (Mokokchung). He trains partner farmers in each village to produce specialty-grade beans, emphasizing careful picking, fermentation and drying.
Nagaland’s high-altitude terrain and virgin soils naturally give beans an edge, Yhor said. “Our land gives 60 to 75 percent of the quality by default. With 20 to 25 percent sincere effort, the coffee becomes world-class.”
Naga traditional barrel fermentation While many producers rely on scientifically manufactured bacterial or yeast cultures and use stainless-steel or food-grade plastic tanks for controlled anaerobic fermentation, Yhor follows a method rooted in Naga tradition. He ferments his coffee in wooden log-drum barrels historically used for preparing thuthse, a local rice beer. These barrels contain naturally occurring bacteria and wild yeast that drive a slower, more complex fermentation.
“Commercial microbial cultures can sometimes make the coffee overly sweet. The wooden barrel gives a more balanced microbial environment,” he said, adding that the indigenous technique, now being replicated in Japan for liquor fermentation, originates from Naga food culture.
His anaerobic naturals involve continuous pH monitoring, round-the-clock checks, selective picking of fully ripe cherries, strict moisture control and extended resting periods. After processing, the beans are milled in Chennai and supplied to specialty roasters in India and Japan, which he regards as the most demanding market. “Once Japan accepts it, every other buyer will accept it,” he said.
Market at your doorstep Yhor describes coffee as one of the few sustainable, long-haul income sources for Nagaland’s geography. Unlike perishable crops, which suffer from poor market access and lack of cold storage, coffee attracts buyers directly to the farms and villages. “If you work hard for four years, by the fifth year you break even,” he said.
But Yhor acknowledges that the first four years are hard, requiring labour and patience. “People expect quick returns. Coffee does not work like that. It needs commitment,” he said.
One of the overlooked strengths of Naga coffee, Yhor pointed out is its market pull. Buyers travel directly to remote farms and villages to secure produce even before the harvest begins.
“In Nagaland, you don’t have to chase the market. The buyers come to your doorstep,” he said. Specialty buyers from across India and occasionally abroad, visit estates in places like Shamator, Noklak, Mon, Touphema and Tsiesema to negotiate advance purchases. Many of them arrive during the harvest season to assess cherries on the trees, taste previous lots and reserve entire micro-lots well ahead of processing. “That’s the beauty of coffee here–if the quality is good, the market will find you,” he added.
source: http://www.morungexpress.com / The Morung Express / Home> Morung Exclusive / by Imti Longchar / December 08th, 2025
Legal action would follow in cases of non-compliance. The quality of Araku coffee would not be compromised under any circumstances, he stressed. The administration would ensure stable pricing for Araku coffee and strengthen its presence in international markets.
With berry borer pest issues expected to surface in the Araku and Dumbriguda mandals, the collector advised farmers to take proper precautions during collection, pulping and drying.—DC
Visakhapatnam:
The ASR district administration is encouraging coffee farmers to sell their produce directly, without middlemen, and would set up coffee Rythu Bazaars to support the farmers. District collector Dinesh Kumar said farmers who join the initiative would receive machinery and equipment at a 30 per cent subsidy on the unit cost. He said, “All traders involved in the coffee business must hold a valid coffee trade registration certificate.”
Legal action would follow in cases of non-compliance. The quality of Araku coffee would not be compromised under any circumstances, he stressed. The administration would ensure stable pricing for Araku coffee and strengthen its presence in international markets. Directions to these effects were issued during an awareness and interaction programme held on Monday with coffee farmers, traders, FPOs, and NGOs.
The collector said, “If all coffee traders in the district form an association, it will be legalised, enabling them to conduct business collectively.” Such an association would help maintain stable pricing for quality produce, he said, and called for the supply of parchment that meets international standards. He stressed the need for high-quality practices from fruit collection to processing. With berry borer pest issues expected to surface in the Araku and Dumbriguda mandals, the collector advised farmers to take proper precautions during collection, pulping and drying. He directed the Coffee Board to share pest-control videos regularly.
Check posts, he said, will be set up to curb the movement of illegal crops. Agriculture staff, ITDA teams and revenue officials would conduct continuous monitoring. Government-issued permission documents are mandatory for transporting coffee crops.
He warned that consignments with out proper permissions would be seized.
The collector asked the Paderu ITDA project officer to install digital weighing machines in coordination with the GCC and ITDA to prevent fraud at markets and procurement centres. He asked the officer to complete the construction of two eco-pulping units in G Madugula and GK Veedhi mandals by next year.
A food processing park would be established in Chintapalli to support FPOs and interested enterprises. During the meeting, ITDA project officer Thirumana Sripooja said coffee fruits would be procured through the GCC. He urged farmers to approach the purchasing centres.
source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com / Deccan Chronicle / Home> Southern States> Andhra Pradesh / by DC Correspondent / December 09th, 2025
Legend has it that India’s coffee journey began around 1600 AD when Sufi Saint Baba Budan planted seven coffee seeds brought from Mocha port in Yemen in the Baba Budan Giri hills of Chikkamangaluru, Karnataka. Initially grown as a garden crop, coffee cultivation gradually expanded, leading to the establishment of commercial plantations in the 18th century. Since then, Indian coffee has evolved into a thriving industry with a distinct global identity on the world coffee map. Indian coffee is cultivated under a unique two-tier shade system of evergreen and leguminous trees, with nearly 50 varieties enhancing soil health and biodiversity. Grown across 4.91 lakh hectares in the Western and Eastern Ghatsand the North Eastern region, coffee serves as both an environmentally sustainable and economically vital plantation crop. The coffee sector sustains the livelihoods of over two million people, who are engaged in cultivation, processing, and trade. Dominated by smallholder farmers, who account for nearly 99 percent of holdings and 70 percent of the country’s overall production, it stands as a vital pillar of India’s rural economy.
Coffee plantations also serve as vibrant spice gardens, cultivating a variety of spices alongside coffee, including pepper, cardamom, vanilla, orange, and banana. The Western Ghats, which form one of the 25 biodiversity hotspots in the world and Eastern Ghats, provide ideal conditions, with Arabica thriving in the cooler highlands and Robusta in the warmer, humid regions. India’s Robusta commands top premiums globally, while its Arabica is prized for its superior quality and distinct flavour. India is now one of the world’s leading coffee producers, ranking as the seventh-largest producer of coffee and contributing about 3.5 percent to global coffee production, according to the Coffee Board of India. India produces approximately 3.6 lakh tonnes of coffee annually, with nearly 70 percent exported to 128 countries, underscoring the growing global demand for Indian coffee.
Overview of India’s Coffee Sector
The coffee industry in India is primarily concentrated in the major coffee-growing states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, which collectively account for nearly 96 percent of the country’s total coffee production. Among these, Karnataka leads with a production of 2,80,275 metric tonnes (Post Blossom Estimate for 2025–26), followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
India’s coffee-growing landscape is divided into 13 distinct agro-climatic zones, each with a unique identity and recognition for its coffees in global markets. These zones are categorized into three broad groups: a) traditional regions comprising Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu; b) non-traditional regions–Andhra Pradesh and Odisha; and c) the North Eastern regions, including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. Coffee plays a vital socio-economic role in the tribal belts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and the North-Eastern states, offering sustainable livelihoods while promoting rural development and ecological balance. The recognised coffee regions include Anamalais (Tamil Nadu), Araku Valley (Andhra Pradesh), Bababudangiris (Karnataka), Chikkamagaluru (Karnataka), Coorg (Karnataka), Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu), Sheveroys (Tamil Nadu), Travancore (Kerala), and Wayanad (Kerala).
Regional recognition of Coffees from India
India holds Geographical Indication (GI) tags for five regional and two specialty coffees, a recognition that enhances their premium value in international trade. The country’s varied elevations, rainfall patterns, and soils conditions, contribute to the rich diversity and exceptional quality that define Indian coffee. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to five Indian regional coffee varieties: Coorg Arabica Coffee, Wayanad Robusta Coffee, Chikmagalur Arabica Coffee, Araku Valley Arabica Coffee, and Bababudangiris Arabica Coffee. Additionally, Monsooned Malabar Robusta Coffee, a unique specialty coffee from India, has also received GI certification.
Specialty coffees represent the finest quality beans, distinguished by their exceptional flavor, aroma, and appearance. These coffees are produced through careful cultivation, selective plucking, and meticulous processing, resulting in distinctive flavours that cater to discerning consumers worldwide. Owing to their uniqueness and craftsmanship, specialty coffees fetch premium prices and form an increasingly dynamic segment of India’s coffee sector. Indian planters have mastered the art of producing globally acclaimed specialty coffees, including:
Monsooned Malabar AA – Known for its smooth, mellow flavour and low acidity, developed through a unique monsooning process along India’s western coast.
Mysore Nuggets Extra Bold – One of India’s finest Arabica coffees with large beans, rich aroma, and full-bodied flavour.
Robusta Kaapi Royale – A superior Robusta variety known for its bold flavor, excellent crema, and ideal for espresso blends.
This recognition has empowered Indian coffee producers to preserve the unique characteristics of region-specific coffees, elevate the global profile of Indian coffee, and secure better prices for their premium varieties. Collectively, these distinguished coffees reflect India’s harmony of tradition, innovation, and excellence, establishing the country as a significant player in the global coffee industry.
Establishment of the Coffee Board
In the 1940s, India’s coffee industry faced a severe crisis, caused by World War II, declining prices, and widespread infestations of pests and diseases. To safeguard and revive the sector, the Government of India enacted the “Coffee Act VII of 1942”, leading to the establishment of the Coffee Board of India under the administrative control of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Board comprises 33 members, including the Chairman, and the Secretary, & the Chief Executive Officer along with representatives of coffee growers, traders, curing units, labor, consumers, state governments of major coffee-producing regions, and Members of Parliament. The Coffee Board’s primary mandate is to support and develop the entire coffee value chain through research and development. Technical and financial assistance, promotion in domestic and international markets. It works to improve production, productivity, and quality, expand exports for higher value realization, and strengthen infrastructure, such as drying yards and pulper units under the Integrated Coffee Development Project (ICDP).
Role of Coffee Board
The Research Department of the Coffee Board, headquartered at the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) with five regional research stations, is dedicated to developing high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties and standardizing modern cultivation technologies to enhance productivity and quality. The Promotion Department focuses on expanding India’s footprint in global markets while stimulating domestic coffee consumption.
Under the Export Promotion Scheme, transit / freight assistance are provided for value-added coffees exported in retail packs as “India Brand” and for export of high-value green Coffees to far off destinations such as the USA, Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, South Korea, Finland, Norway and Denmark while maintaining strong trade ties with the European Union, Russia, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The Board actively represents Indian coffee at major international trade fairs and organizes the Flavour of India – The Fine Cup Competition, to identify premium coffees and connect them to global buyers. Domestically, to boost coffee awareness and culture, the board operates a network of 12 India Coffee Houses across major cities and participates in national exhibitions and trade fairs, promoting Indian coffee and highlighting its health benefits to consumers.
Export of Coffee
India has emerged as a significant player in the global coffee trade, ranking as the fifth-largest exporter of coffee among coffee-producing nations and contributing around 5 percent of total coffee exports from Coffee producing countries worldwide. Over the past four years, India’s coffee exports have consistently exceeded USD 1 billion, reaching a record USD 1.8 billion in FY 2024–25, reflecting an impressive 40 percent growth from USD 1.29 billion in the previous year. Despite global geopolitical challenges, exports during April–September 2025 stood at USD 1.07 billion, registering a 15.5% increase over the same period in 2024. India is one of the major hubs for instant coffee production and exports, with value-added products accounting for nearly 38 percent of total coffee exports.
As one of the world’s most widely traded and consumed commodities, coffee continues to hold immense economic and cultural significance. The top 5 export destinations for Indian coffee are Italy (18.09percent), Germany (11.01percent), Belgium (7.47percent), the Russian Federation (5.28percent), and the United Arab Emirates (5.09percent). The recent surge in India’s coffee exports has strengthened the global reputation of Indian coffee and improved income realisation for growers, particularly in the key coffee-producing states.
Policy and Trade Reforms Boosting the Coffee Sector
GST Reduction on Coffee Products
The reduction of GST from 18 percent to 5 percent on coffee extracts, essences, and instant coffee is a major fiscal step for the sector. This change is expected to lower retail prices by 11–12 percent, encourage domestic consumption, and enhance profitability for small processors. The initiative will also strengthen the domestic market base and enhance India’s per capita coffee consumption.
India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)
The recently concluded India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) marks a key milestone in bilateral trade relations. The pact offers tariff advantages for Indian value-added coffees, particularly instant coffee. The United Kingdom, which already accounts for 1.7 percent of India’s coffee exports, will now provide duty-free access for Roast & Ground and instant coffee, enabling Indian exporters to compete more effectively with suppliers from Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. The agreement establishes a robust foundation for increasing exports of value-added coffee products to the UK.
India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)
The India–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), signed on 10 March 2024 and effective from 1 October 2025, is the first Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by India to link investment with job creation. Under TEPA, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland will offer zero percent duty on all coffee imports from India. TEPA provides the most favorable market access to Indian Coffees in the EFTA market. TEPA may help coffee exporters access premium markets in Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, providing an opportunity to position India’s high-quality, shade-grown, handpicked, and sun-dried coffees in the EFTA market. The agreement enhances export opportunities for value-added coffee, such as roasted and instant coffees.
Fine Cup Awards: Showcasing India’s Finest Coffees
The Flavour of India – The Fine Cup Award, instituted in 2002 by the Coffee Board of India, celebrates excellence in Indian coffee and aims to place the country’s finest brews on the global map. As part of this initiative, the Coffee Board launched the Know Your Kaapi (KYK) programme in 2022–23, a specialised cup quality evaluation platform to assess and reward exceptional coffees across six categories.
In a remarkable achievement, Koraput Coffee won two Fine Cup Awards during KYK 2024, one each for the washed process and natural process categories. This recognition has enhanced he brand’s prestige and firmly positioned Koraput Coffee on India’s specialty coffee map, reflecting the rising prominence of tribal and high-altitude coffees from Odisha.
Involvement of TDCCOL in Coffee Procurement and Marketing
The Tribal Development Co-operative Corporation of Odisha Ltd. (TDCCOL), established in 1967 under the ST & SC Development Department, Government of Odisha, serves as the state’s apex cooperative institution for tribal welfare. It plays a vital role in safeguarding the economic interests of tribal communities by ensuring fair prices for Minor Forest Produce (MFP) and Surplus Agricultural Produce (SAP), while promoting sustainable livelihoods across Odisha.
Since 2019–20, TDCCOL has taken a pioneering role in coffee procurement in Koraput district, known for its ideal conditions for high-quality Arabica coffee. The organisation transitioned from centralised mandis to doorstep procurement, ensuring fair pricing and promoting financial inclusion for tribal farmers.
Key highlights:
End-to-end management: Managing the entire value chain, from procurement to drying, grading, and marketing.
Fair pricing: Annual procurement rates aligned with ICTA market prices, with direct payments to farmers’ bank accounts.
Socio-economic impact: The initiative has reduced distress migration and improved rural livelihoods.
Value addition: Launch of the “Koraput Coffee” brand on 11 September 2019, offering sustainably sourced, rich-flavored coffee now recognized nationally.
TDCCOL has established eight “Koraput Coffee” cafés across Odisha – four in Bhubaneswar, one in Puri, two in Koraput, and one at Odisha Bhavan, New Delhi, further promoting the brand’s unique identity and sustainable origins.
The Coffee Board of India also supports TDCCOL through the Integrated Coffee Development Project (ICDP), providing technical and financial assistance for infrastructure such as drying yards and coffee pulpers.
Future Outlook: Scaling New Heights in Coffee Production
India’s coffee industry is poised for robust growth, with the overall market projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.9 percent by 2028. The out-of-home coffee segment is witnessing even faster growth, expected to rise at a CAGR of 15 to 20 percent, reaching a value between US$2.6 billion and US$3.2 billion by 2028. Furthermore, the Coffee Board of India has set an ambitious goal to scale up national coffee production to 9 lakh tonnes by 2047, reinforcing India’s emergence as a leading global coffee producer.
Conclusion
India’s coffee story is one of resilience, innovation, and transformation. From the humble beginnings in the Baba Budan Giri hills to earning global acclaim, Indian coffee has evolved into a symbol of quality, sustainability, and inclusive growth. The country’s unique ecological diversity, coupled with the commitment of millions of smallholder farmers, has created a coffee landscape that blends tradition with modern enterprise. The Coffee Board of India, through its ongoing support for research, development, export promotion, and domestic market expansion, has played a pivotal role in driving this transformation.
The emergence of specialty coffees such as Monsooned Malabar, Mysore Nuggets, and Koraput Coffee has strengthened India’s reputation as a producer of premium, globally competitive varieties. The success of tribal cooperatives like TDCCOL in Odisha has exemplified how coffee can be an instrument of socio-economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood creation. Furthermore, policy measures, such as the GST reduction and free trade agreements, including the India–UK CETA and India–EFTA TEPA, have further expanded opportunities for value-added coffee exports, marking India’s growing influence in the global coffee industry.
As the industry moves forward with a clear vision to enhance production to 9 lakh tonnes by 2047, India’s coffee sector stands at the threshold of a new era. With its focus on quality, sustainability, and equitable growth, India continues to brew a success story that is deeply rooted in its soil yet celebrated worldwide.
A coffee farmer on one of Kelachandra’s coffee plantations | Photo credit: Kelachandra Coffee
J.S. Nagaraja joins the Indian coffee plantation group to spearhead its sustainability projects and champion Indian coffee on the global stage
Kelachandra Coffee has appointed former Coffee Board of India executive J.S. Nagaraja to spearhead R&D strategy across its extensive plantation network.
Founded in 1995, Kelachandra is one of India’s largest privately held coffee plantations with approximately 6,500 acres across 15 estates in Karnataka and Kerala. Nagaraja joins the company as Head of Research and Development (R&D) to lead its sustainability initiatives, including carbon footprint and sequestration studies. His other responsibilities include optimising soil and leaf analysis, refining fertiliser use and advancing specialty coffee development.
“Dr. Nagaraja’s track record at the intersection of agronomy, sustainability, and innovation will be instrumental as we chart the next phase of Kelachandra’s growth. At a time when climate change and conscious consumption are reshaping our industry, his leadership will anchor our work on carbon sequestration, scientific validation of our specialty micro-lots, and the global positioning of our coffee as an authentically eco-friendly brand,” said Jagan Thimaiah, Executive Director, Kelachandra Coffee.
Nagaraja joins Kelachandra after a three-decade career with the Coffee Board of India, where he most recently served as Joint Director of Research.
“I am honoured to be part of Kelachandra at this pivotal moment in its journey. In the months ahead, my focus will be on strengthening our research agenda around soil health, climate resilience, and carbon sequestration, while advancing tools such as genetic fingerprinting to validate the uniqueness of our coffees,” Nagaraja said.
Kelachandra currently exports to specialty coffee roasters and premium retailers in Japan, Australia, Denmark, Norway, Germany and the Middle East. It also supplies some of India’s leading premium roasters, including Blue Tokai, Humble Bean, Third Wave Coffee and Dope Coffee.
source: http://www.worldcoffeeportal.org / Allegra World Coffee Portal / Home> News> India / by November 20th, 2025
Goal is to achieve 15% speciality coffee out of this 7 lakh tons, says Coffee Board Chairman M.J. Dinesh
Three new coffee varieties would be released by the Central Coffee Research Institute during its centenary programme next month. File | Photo Credit: The Hindu
The Coffee Board of India on Monday said it has a target to double the coffee production to over 7 lakh tonnes by 2047. India currently produces 3.5 lakh tonnes of Arabica and Robusta varieties of coffee in about 4.05 lakh hectares of land.
Board chairman M.J. Dinesh said: “The board has set an ambitious target to increase our production to 7 lakh tonnes by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence. Our goal is to achieve 15% specialty coffee out of this 7 lakh tonnes.’’
According to him, to achieve this production goal, the board has chalked out a comprehensive action plan.
Speaking at the Karnataka Planters’ Association (KPA) 67th annual general meeting here, he said about 1 lakh hectares will be brought under cultivation in Odisha and Northeast States like Nagaland. “We will increase land under coffee cultivation in non-traditional areas while we will also boost yield in the coffee heartland in Karnataka,’’ Mr. Dinesh added.
New varieties
He further said three new coffee varieties would be released by the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) based at Balehonnur, during its centenary programme next month. “Over the past century, our scientists have released 30 Arabica varieties and three Robusta varieties. CCRI has one of the best germ plasm of over 400 varieties,” he said.
The board was also implementing clonal propagation of Robusta coffee tissue culture plants in collaboration with Jain Irrigation, which may be released by 2026-27, he further added.
Mr. Dinesh said the board was also designing the Indian Coffee Board Sustainability Certification Scheme (INDICOFS), which would offer a distinct global identity for Indian coffees. The board also introduced IndiaCoffee App, to help growers and exporters meet global traceability compliance mandated by the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) norms, he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Karnataka Energy Minister, K.J. George urged the planters community in the State to replicate the branding success of Araku Valley coffee growers.
Bhaskar Bhat, director, Tata Sons and former managing director of Titan, said coffee growers should focus on specialty and premium coffees to cater to the large and young growing population in the domestic market.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / by Mini Tejaswi / November 20th, 2025
India International Coffee Festival kicks off this week, and it promises a packed calendar for javaphiles in Mumbai.
The competitions receive participating entries from home brewers and professional baristas. Pics courtesy/IICF
If you are a coffee lover, and take keen interest in its craft, India International Coffee Festival (IICF) to be held within the Bakery & HoReCa Industry Show is where you should be from October 30 to November 1.
Organised by Speciality Coffee Association of India (SCAI), the event will see six preliminary rounds of competitions including flagship National Barista Championship, Brewer’s Cup Championship, Coffee in Good Spirits, and Latte Art Championship. The final will be held in Bengaluru later this year. It is a great spot to network and engage with representatives from the entire coffee value chain across India.
The jury consists of qualified tasters
DM Purnesh, a fourth-generation coffee grower from Chikmagalur and immediate past president, SCAI, part from industry folks, the event is a great place for entrepreneurs, aspiring professionals, and enthusiasts to understand about coffee and its process. Over the last 23 years that we have been running competitions, we have seen a lot of interest from home brewers.
A participant takes part in a filter coffee making challenge
A qualified jury judges the competitions. Winners at Indian Barista Champion 2025 to be held in Bengaluru later this year will go on to represent at global competition World Barista Championship 2025,” says Purnesh.
Exhibiting brands include Kaapi Machine and Solutions, caffeine superstore Benki, Brewing Gadgets and Trufrost & Butler.
Serious about coffee
(Left) Suhas Dwarkanath; (right) a participant takes part in a previous coffee-making championship
Hamsini Appadurai, president, SCAI, is happy consumers are more aware in recent years and want to know where their coffee comes from. “Gone are the days when we would order a cup of coffee.
We also have a Brewers Cup and Filter Coffee Championship, which sees participation from home brewers as well. We want everybody to catch the coffee bug,” she tells us.
Micro communities around coffee are thriving on social media, WhatsApp and offline. “Makers discuss brewing and brewing techniques. The competitions are becoming a sort of value badge, allowing homebrewers to showcase their talent of working with different kinds of coffees and techniques,” adds Appadurai.
DM Purnesh and Hamsini Appadurai
Suhas Dwarkanath, last year’s winning barista who recently notched the 15th spot at the World Barista Championship 2025, says the festival is a great place to meet with the community exchanging ideas, networking and most importantly learning from others. “Trends today include coffee mocktails and Coffee Omakase sessions where barista-led Omakase coffee sessions are hosted over a multi-course tasting experience just like an omakase sushi dinner. It is a unique journey of coffee beverages for the diner. The expert highlights unique flavours, origins, and innovative preparations, sometimes with accompanying food pairings.”
On October 30 to November 1 At Bakery and HoReCa Business, Jio World Convention Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex. Time 9.30 am to 5.30 pm Register www.bakerybusiness.in Entry Rs 500
source: http://www.mid-day.com /mid-day / Home> Mumbai Guide News> Things to do News> Articles / by Phorum Pandya (smdmail@mid-day.com) / Mumbai, October 28th, 2025
In his monthly radio broadcast, Modi lauded the distinctive character and diversity of Indian coffee, saying it has carved a ‘unique identity’ on the world stage.
For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. | Photo Credit: For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.
Planters in Karnataka have welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for the global recognition earned by coffee from the State’s key producing regions Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on Sunday. However, growers have urged the government to take concrete steps to address persistent challenges affecting the sector.
Coffee Board of India chairman M.J. Dinesh thanked the Prime Minister for recognising the efforts of lakhs of growers and said the acknowledgment would inspire renewed enthusiasm in the sector. “The Prime Minister’s words will encourage planters, traders, and exporters alike. It comes at a time when the board has undertaken several initiatives to boost both productivity and domestic consumption,” he said.
For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. “It is heartening that the Prime Minister has spoken about coffee from Kodagu, which produces the largest share of India’s coffee. His words reaffirm the importance of our work,” said coffee planter Ravi Chengappa from Virajpet in Kodagu.
However, Mr. Chengappa noted that the sector continues to face serious difficulties. “Coffee growers are struggling with rising input costs, labour shortages, damage caused by erratic rainfall, and wild animal attacks. Fluctuating international prices and a lack of adequate crop insurance have also left many growers financially vulnerable,” he said.
Another farmer Dinesh H. from Chikkamagaluru urged both the Central and the State governments to take immediate steps to protect the livelihood of coffee farmers. “We hope the Prime Minister’s appreciation will translate into stronger policy support. The government must address these long-standing issues from better price realisation to support for sustainable cultivation so that the next generation of planters can continue this legacy,” he added.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B P / October 27th, 2025
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