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

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

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

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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

Nitin Kushalappa wins Kendra Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar

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Mysore/Mysuru: 

Kodagu-based author and engineer Mookonda P. Nitin Kushalappa has been awarded the prestigious Kendra Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar for his latest work, Dakshin: South Indian Myths and Fables Retold, published by Puffin Books in 2023.

The awards were announced in New Delhi on Wednesday (June 18), and Nitin is among 24 writers to receive the Bal Puraskar this year.

The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, is the country’s central institution for literary dialogue, publication and promotion, and is the only organisation to conduct literary activities in 24 Indian languages, including English.

These distinguished literary honours recognise exceptional contributions to Indian literature across multiple languages, celebrating diversity, creativity, and the country’s rich linguistic heritage.

Presented annually, the awards honour authors whose works exemplify outstanding literary merit and cultural relevance. This year’s selection showcases a rich tapestry of genres — from poetry and novels to short stories and criticism — highlighting both emerging and established voices.

“Although I have authored seven other books so far, this is my first book for children. Winning this award was unexpected, and I am grateful that my current work has found such recognition. I thank the Sahitya Akademi for conferring the Bal Sahitya Puraskar on me. I am also thankful to my publishers, book agents, relatives, friends, and everyone who supported me on this journey,” Nitin Kushalappa told Star of Mysore.

An engineer by profession, Nitin is widely known for his deep interest in Kodagu’s local history, folklore and fiction. His notable publications include ‘The Early Coorgs’, ‘Long Ago in Coorg’, ‘1785 Coorg’, ‘Kodagu Principality vs British Empire’, ‘The Major Who Kept His Cool’, ‘The House of Awadh’ and ‘The Gandhi of Kodagu’.

His latest work, ‘Dakshin: South Indian Myths and Fables Retold’, reflects his signature storytelling style, which blends regional history with creative retelling. Award winners will each receive a casket containing an engraved copper plaque and a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 at a special ceremony on a later date.

A native of Kodagu, Nitin is the son of Mookonda K. Poonacha (Sunny) and M.P. Damayanthi (Pushpa), residents of Ammathi. He is married to Deepthi Belliappa from the Ketolira family.

He completed his education at Clarence High School, St. Joseph’s Pre-University College, CMR Institute of Technology (B.E.), Kuvempu University (M.A.) and Alliance University (Executive Post Graduate Diploma in Management).

2019 award

In 2019, Codanda Devika Cariapa received the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar for her book ‘A Children’s History of India in 100 Objects’, published by Penguin Random House India.

The book is a compilation featuring 100 objects that hold significant relevance in Indian history, from prehistoric times to modern-day India. The emphasis has been to capture India’s diversity through concise and descriptive texts and beautiful illustrations.

Devika is the daughter of Lt. Gen. Biddanda Chengappa Nanda  (late) and Leela Nanda, and wife of Indian Air Force Group Captain (Retd.) Codanda Chitrajit Cariapa.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 21st, 2025

Sainik School Kodagu holds parade to celebrate U-17 football team’s victory

Education, Records, All, Sports

The Under-17 Junior Football Team of Sainik School Kodagu, which emerged as runners-up in the All India Sainik Schools Inter-Zone Football Tournament 2025, with the dignitaries after a victory parade on the school campus at Kudige recently. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Sainik School Kodagu held a victory parade to celebrate the achievement of its Under-17 Junior Football Team, which emerged as runners-up in the All India Sainik Schools Inter-Zone Football Tournament 2025, also known as the Pre-Subroto Cup, held at Sainik School Bhubaneswar from June 9 to 15.

The cadets marched with their trophy, marking the school’s first-ever podium finish at the national level. Cadet Aryan, who was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, received an individual achiever’s trophy for his performance.

The victory parade commenced from Old Kudige and concluded on the school campus, drawing participation from cadets, teaching and non-teaching staff, NCC units, and local residents.

The Sub-Junior and Girls’ football teams took part in the procession, celebrating the collective spirit of sportsmanship, a press release said.

Principal Col. Amar Jeet Singh, administrative officer Wing Commnander Prakash Rao, vice-principal Squadron Leader Mohammad Shaji, and others attended the event. Girl cadets clad in traditional Kodava attire welcomed the players with flowers, while cultural performances such as ‘Dollu Kunita’ and the school’s ‘Tamate’ ensemble added vibrancy to the event, the release added.

The team was felicitated with citations and certificates. Col. Singh praised the team’s determination, skill, and resilience, and commended the dedicated efforts of coach Shek Ajjed and the entire coaching staff.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu /Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / June 20th, 2025

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

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Defence Services (Air,Land,Sea),Police (wef. Dec 09th, 2021), Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022))

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

Codava meet on geo-political autonomy and tribal rights

Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All

HIGHLIGHTS

Madikeri: In a significant push for regional autonomy and constitutional recognition, the Codava National Council (CNC) is set to organise a seminar…

Madikeri:

In a significant push for regional autonomy and constitutional recognition, the Codava National Council (CNC) is set to organise a seminar on June 18 highlighting its 35-year-long peaceful movement for the political, cultural, and territorial rights of the Codava people.

Speaking to Hans India President of the CNC NU Nachappa, the seminar will address CNC’s core demands, including the creation of a Codava Autonomous Region (CAR) under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution — akin to the autonomous councils in the Northeast and the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council. The organisation is also seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Codavas, whom it identifies as a distinct animistic, mono-ethnic indigenous community.

The keynote speaker for the event is Vikram Hegde, a constitutional lawyer practising in the Supreme Court, who has previously represented the CNC in the landmark Codava Gun Rights case. His lecture will delve into constitutional provisions for regional autonomy, linguistic rights, and the protection of customary practices — subjects he also teaches as a visiting faculty at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru.

The CNC is currently pursuing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that seeks legal recognition of Codavaland’s claim for geo-political autonomy, arguing that their demands are both constitutionally viable and historically justified.

Joining Hegde at the seminar will be his wife, Hima Lawrance, also a Supreme Court lawyer, qualified to practice in both India and New York. The event is expected to draw academics, legal experts, regional leaders, and community stakeholders from across Karnataka, as discussions around regional autonomy and tribal classification continue to gain traction in India’s federal structure.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Hans News Service / June 17th, 2025

Mysuru MP urges Union Minister to strengthen BSNL services in Karnataka’s Kodagu district

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Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar has urged Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia to take immediate steps to improve BSNL connectivity in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, which continues to suffer from poor network coverage and service disruptions.

During a recent meeting with the Union Minister in New Delhi, Mr. Wadiyar submitted a detailed memorandum outlining the urgent need to upgrade BSNL infrastructure, particularly in the wake of recent heavy rains that have damaged key telecom assets.

Speaking to mediapersons after the meeting, the MP said that continuous rainfall in Kodagu has uprooted several electricity and telephone poles, leading to a breakdown in telecom services.

He appealed to the minister to instruct concerned authorities to expedite repair and restoration efforts.

“Despite repeated appeals to BSNL officials for replacing outdated towers and improving connectivity, little has been done on the ground,” Mr. Wadiyar said. “The quality of BSNL service in Kodagu is abysmal, and it is essential to take immediate corrective measures.”

The MP expressed concern over the severe impact on students, who are struggling to attend online classes or access digital learning platforms due to poor connectivity. Government offices, too, are facing operational hurdles, he informed.

Another key issue raised by Mr. Wadiyar was the non-functional power backup systems at BSNL towers. “Most backup batteries have failed. Repairing or replacing them takes considerable time and effort. I had brought this to the notice of officials during the DISHA meeting held on March 8, but their inaction has only worsened the situation,” he stated.

Mr. Wadiyar said that the Union Minister responded positively, and assured that necessary steps would be taken at the earliest to address the concerns raised.

Immediate actions requested by the MP include repair and upgradation of existing BSNL towers, installation of new towers in underserved and low-connectivity areas, and reliable power backup systems to ensure uninterrupted services.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka /by The Hindu Bureau / June 18th, 2025

Planters want branding like Nandini for coffee in Karnataka

Business & Economy, Coffee News, , , , , , , ,

Coffee growers believe that while the region’s coffee is known for its flavour and aroma, without proper branding, it loses value in larger market.

Despite contributing nearly 70 per cent of India’s total coffee production, Karnataka’s coffee continues to be sold without a unified label which can represent varieties produced in the state.(Representative image)

Bengaluru :

Taking a cue from the success of Nandini in the dairy sector, coffee growers in Karnataka are pushing for a similar branding model for the state’s coffee. The Karnataka Growers’ Federation (KGF) is working on a proposal to create a unified brand called ‘Karnataka Coffee’ to give the state’s produce an identity in both national and international markets.

Federation officials confirmed that preliminary meeting have already been held with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, and they are hopeful that the proposal will be taken forward in the coming days.

Despite contributing nearly 70 per cent of India’s total coffee production, Karnataka’s coffee continues to be sold without a unified label which can represent varieties produced in the state. Coffee growers believe that while the region’s coffee is known for its flavour and aroma, without proper branding, it loses value in larger market.

“Karnataka is the largest coffee-producing state in the country, but we still don’t have a common brand that represents our coffee,” KGF President H Shivanna said, adding that if the state creates one, it will improve market visibility and directly benefit growers, specifically in districts like Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Hassan.

He stressed that the idea is to follow a cooperative model similar to Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), which helped make Nandini a wider brand. “The Nandini model also ensured fair pricing for farmers and made distribution marketing more efficient. We want to apply the same structure to coffee,” Shivanna said.

Federation officials pointed out that creating a state-backed brand could help bring attention to long-pending issues faced by planters, including frequent human-elephant conflict, pressure from forest officials, confusion around deemed forest classifications, and the need to extend land lease periods for growers.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Rishita Khanna / June 16th, 2025

CM Assures Kodavas To Name A Metro Station After Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa

Business & Economy, Defence Services (Air,Land,Sea),Police (wef. Dec 09th, 2021), Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, , , , , , ,

“The matter to name a Metro Station in Bengaluru city will be placed before the cabinet meeting to arrive at a decision,” said the Chief Minister and exuded confidence that “None will have objection to name a Metro Station after Field Marshal Cariappa.”

Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa —DC Image

Bengaluru :

Responding to a plea to name a Station of Bangalore Metro Train Corporation Limited (BMRCL) in Bengaluru city, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday assured to fulfill the wish of the Kodavas to name a Metro Station after Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Field Marshal of independent India. Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa was from Kodagu district.

“The matter to name a Metro Station in Bengaluru city will be placed before the cabinet meeting to arrive at a decision,” said the Chief Minister and exuded confidence that “None will have objection to name a Metro Station after Field Marshal Cariappa.” Though a request has been made to name a Metro Station but have not stated a particular Station.

“I will make an honest effort to name the Metro Station after Field Marshal Cariappa,” Siddaramaiah said at a felicitation programme organized by members of Kodava Samaj in Bengaluru. The felicitation to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was organized in honour of the State Government allocation of 7 acres for Kodava Samaj in Bengaluru city.

At the function, D.K. Shivakumar assured the Kodava Samaj members that the demand of Kodava Samaj to name a Metro Station after Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa has been received with an open mind and stated “The State Government will make all efforts for the coming generations to remember Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa.”

source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com / Deccan Chronicle / Home> Southern States> Karnataka / by M B Girish / June 16th, 2025

River rafting operators in Kodagu told to renew licence, obtain fitness certificate

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MLA Mantar Gowda, Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja and other officials during a meeting of the River Rafting Management and Monitoring Committee, held at Harangi reservoir in Kodagu on Friday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

In a move to tighten safety regulations in adventure tourism, river rafting operators in Dubare and Barapole have been directed to renew their licences and obtain fitness certificates before resuming any water sports activities.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the River Rafting Management and Monitoring Committee, held at the Harangi reservoir, near Kushalnagar, on Friday.

Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda emphasised the importance of enforcing strict safety protocols, especially during the monsoon season, when tourist footfall goes up.

River rafting operators have to secure fitness certification for their rafts from the General Thimayya National Academy of Adventure (GETHNAA), and police verification is mandatory, he said.

Mr. Gowda said no rafting operation would be permitted without valid certificates, and that life jackets were mandatory. All guides should undergo skill assessments and wear uniforms while on duty, he said. To promote tourism, Mr. Gowda proposed installing signboards at important junctions such as Bilikere, Hunsur-Gonikoppal junction, and near Siddapura on Periyapatna Road.

“Tourist safety is non-negotiable. One mishap could severely damage Kodagu’s tourism image,” said Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja. He said that all operators should undergo training and get certification through GETHNAA to ensure quality and safety in water-based adventure activities.

In view of the growing number of tourists visiting Kodagu for river rafting, the committee approved major infrastructure upgrades such as shelters at ticket counters, stair railings for river access, changing rooms and restrooms, benches, drinking water facilities, informative signage and CCTV surveillance.

Tourism Department Deputy Director Anita Bhaskar said 75 rafts were currently operating in Dubare and 24 in Barapole. Under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024–29, 11 applications for kayaking licences had been received for operation along the Hemavathi and Cauvery riverbanks, as well as Harangi backwaters.

The committee said feasibility reports for these locations would be studied before granting approvals.

Meanwhile, rafting has been permitted at Kumaralli (Bidalli) in Somwarpet taluk, though commercial activity has not yet begun. A final site inspection is awaited.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / June 13th, 2025