Kodagu district’s Minister, N.S. Boseraju, inaugurates a new hockey stadium and pledges support for a sports hostel in Somwarpet, acknowledging the region’s rich sporting tradition.
The Minister in-charge of Kodagu district, N.S. Boseraju, recently inaugurated a new hockey stadium at Chowdlu village near Somwarpet. In a move that acknowledges the district’s rich sporting legacy, especially in hockey, the Minister pledged to pursue the sanctioning of a sports hostel for Somwarpet. He also expressed intentions to discuss with the Sports Minister about the allocation of additional funds for constructing a compound wall for the stadium, further strengthening the infrastructure.
Stadium Construction and Future Plans
The establishment of the new hockey stadium is a testament to the efforts of former MLA Appachu Ranjan and current Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda, who secured ₹40 lakh to finalize the stadium works. The Minister emphasized the stadium’s capacity to host national-level hockey matches, an achievement that amplifies the district’s reputation in the sports arena.
Fulfillment of a Local Dream
The inauguration of the hockey stadium marks the realization of a long-standing aspiration of the local population. MLA Mantar Gowda highlighted the importance of proper maintenance and safety measures to ensure that the stadium continues to be a source of pride for the community and a hotspot for nurturing talent.
Proposed Naming and Honoring Achievements
In a nod to the contributions of local families, there is a proposal to name the stadium after C.K. Kalappa, whose family generously donated the land for its construction. The event also honored the accomplishments of B.M. Suresh and renowned hockey player Subbaiah. Echoing Minister Boseraju’s sentiments, hockey coach Shashidar called for the establishment of a sports hostel in Somwarpet, further underlining the region’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence.
source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com / BNN/ Home> Sports> India / by Salman Khan / January 03rd, 2024
Ramana Avatara pairs Rishi with Shubra Aiyappa and Pranitha Subash. The film is set to hit theatres shortly.
Kannada actor Rishi has not had a theatrical release since 2019’s Sarvajanikarige Suvarnavakasha. He was seen in cameos in not one, but three Kannada films – Mugilpete, One Cut Two Cut and Thurthu Nirgamana – and had a direct-to-OTT film Nodi Swamy Ivanu Irode Heege during the pandemic. His film Ramana Avatara has been ready for a while and Rishi was hoping to have it in theatres sometime in the second half of 2023, after his Telugu web series debut Shaitaan, but that did not happen.
The team is now on the lookout for a release date, with April the most likely candidate, but what’s also happening is that Ramana Avatara will no longer be just a Kannada film. It is officially a bilingual release with a Telugu version also being readied, given Rishi’s new-found popularity in those markets following the success of Shaitaan and that he is now working on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s untitled 109th project as antagonist, along with Bobby Deol. Rishi also has another Telugu film in his kitty in which he plays the lead.
Ramana Avatara, by director Vikas Pampapathi, is a comedy that has Rishi play the title character Rama, whose post break-up venture sees him try something to stop the migration of educated youth from his village to the city. The film also stars Shubra Aiyappa, Pranitha Subhash, Anirudha Acharya, among others, and has music by Judah Sandhy.
Rishi, who has just wound up work on a film called Rudra Garuda Purana, in which he plays a cop yet again after Kavaludaari, has been vocal about the need to deliver on what’s been promised in his films, so that audiences do not feel cheated when they watch it in theatres. “When I say that I have made an entertainer and that I would like people to come to theatres, I have to live up to that promise,” he had said.
source: http://www.ottplay.com / OTT Play / Home> News / by Team OTT Play / February 16th, 2024
MLAs want encroached lands to be leased to large holders and sanction land to small holders
Bengaluru:
Encroachment of Government land by small coffee growers in the coffee-growing regions of Kodagu was discussed in the Legislative Assembly yesterday, where Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna appealed to the Government to permanently sanction the lands to their names as they are actively cultivating crops on those lands.
Participating in a discussion on the subject, Ponnanna said that small growers in Kodagu who are cultivating coffee and other crops in two to three acres of land are facing numerous problems.
“In certain areas, small coffee growers find themselves surrounded by large private plantations, with Government land in between that has been encroached upon. According to the law, land can be leased out for up to 25 acres. Large Government lands encroached upon by major growers should be leased out by the Government,” he said.
“However, small-scale growers, who only have two to three acres of land and have encroached upon small portions of Government land, require a permanent solution. The Government should sanction the encroached land in their names to provide them with a permanent relief about their holdings,” Ponnanna explained.
Earlier, Sakleshpur MLA ‘Cement’ Manju mentioned that during the tenure when R. Ashoka served as the Revenue Minister in the previous BJP Government, a decision was made to lease the encroached Government land to coffee growers for a duration of 30 years. Unfortunately, due to a change in Government, this decision was not put into action. Therefore, he urged the Government to resume the process of leasing the land for a period of 30 years.
Later, Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda raised questions regarding why the BJP Government did not implement the leasing of land to coffee growers for 30 years. He emphasised the importance of discussing pending applications, particularly the 53rd and 57th applications, which have been awaiting decisions for 20-25 years.
He expressed satisfaction with leasing the land to Race Courses and Clubs for 30 years and wanted similar leasing to coffee growers to get permanent ownership by approving the 53rd and 57th applications. He cautioned that leasing land for 30 years could lead to future problems for the growers and suggested considering leasing the land for 99 years instead.
Intervening in the discussion, Speaker U.T. Khader said approval of land up to 3 acres for the poor could offer a permanent solution to the issue at hand.
At this point, Dr. Mantar Gowda’s father, A. Manju, who is also the JD(S) MLA from Arkalgud, intervened, questioning why the Government was hesitating to lease land to farmers while providing it for Race Courses, Resorts and Clubs.
“Why there is a delay in approving the land lease when it comes to farmers? The law prohibits leasing out land for more than 30 years. Can you take back encroached land from cultivators? It is not possible. I suggest leasing out the land to encroachers. This way, the Government would earn revenue and the lessees would benefit as well. They would also help conserve forests and contribute to the environment, he added.
Later, MLA A.S. Ponnanna spoke, urging to sanction the encroached land for small-scale coffee growers as well as to provide land for lease to large coffee growers.
What are 50th, 53rd and 57th applications?
The Bagar Hukum system, established by the State Revenue Department, requires applicants to submit Form 57 for the legalisation of agricultural land.
The Bagar Hukum scheme traces its origins back to 1980 when the Government allocated two acres of land to landless farmers for agricultural activities. However, the beneficiaries of this scheme did not receive the title deed for the land they cultivated.
Subsequently, applications were invited in the forms of Form 50 (1991), Form 53 (1999) and Form 57 (2018) under the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964. The application window extended until April 2023, exclusively for those who have been engaged in cultivation for the past 15 years.
According to Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda, who raised the issue in the Assembly, all the applications received in Form 50, Form 53 and Form 57 are pending since the last 25 years. If these applications are approved, growers can gain permanent ownership over the land.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / February 23rd, 2024
In a significant development for the Indian coffee sector, the Coffee Board of India organised a buyer-seller meeting at Dubai, marking a new chapter in the industry’s global expansion.
The event, held on the sidelines of Gulfood 2024, was jointly organised by the Indian Embassy in UAE and the Coffee Board of India. Speaking on the Occasion, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted Dubai’s strategic role as a global trade hub, and the upcoming Bharat Mart at Jebel Ali free zone as enablers for India’s global coffee ambitions. He also emphasized Dubai’s unique position as a logistical powerhouse, boasting a busy port and efficient airport, offering an ideal platform for Indian coffee producers to showcase their diverse blends directly to international buyers and establish lasting brands.
The meeting featured a presentation by KG Jagadeesha, CEO of the Coffee Board of India, who provided a comprehensive overview of the country’s coffee industry. He highlighted the vast coffee plantations spanning over half a million hectares, supporting millions of farming families, and the impressive production and export rates that surpass domestic consumption. Jagadeesh emphasized India’s significant contribution to the international coffee market, particularly as a leading exporter of instant coffee.
India’s coffee industry, with its balanced production of Arabica and Robusta beans, has witnessed remarkable growth since the establishment of the Coffee Board in 1950. Notably, 35% of the country’s coffee exports now comprise value-added and specialty coffees, showcasing a shift towards premium offerings. India’s coffee is unique in the sense that it is shade-grown and the Robusta variety is treated at par with Arabica in the Western market. This event not only celebrated the distinct flavors and rich heritage of Indian coffee but also marked a strategic move to leverage Dubai’s logistical strengths.
source: http://www.newsonair.gov.in / News Services Division, All India Radio / February 22nd, 2024
Explore Gulshan Devaiah’s evolution in the action genre, his upcoming projects, and his fearless approach to diverse roles that captivate audiences and critics alike.
Gulshan Devaiah: Bollywood’s Action Maestro Embarks on Another Thrilling Venture
When Gulshan Devaiah burst onto the Bollywood scene, his unique blend of intensity and versatility immediately made waves. Known for his compelling performances, Devaiah is once again set to captivate audiences, this time in an untitled action series that promises to showcase his prowess in the genre. Following his acclaimed role in ‘Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota’, where his portrayal of a man with a dual identity left viewers and critics in awe, Devaiah is eager to push the envelope further with stylized fight sequences and an adrenaline-pumping narrative.
A New Chapter in Action
Devaiah’s journey in the action genre has been both exhilarating and transformative. His upcoming project marks his second major foray into action, a genre that demands not only physical agility but also a nuanced understanding of the character’s psyche. In conversations about his preparation for the series, Devaiah has expressed excitement about exploring new dimensions of action, emphasizing the importance of stylized sequences that add depth to the narrative. The actor’s dedication to mastering complex choreography and embodying the essence of his character is indicative of his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience to viewers.
Versatility Across Genres
Aside from his ventures into action, Devaiah has demonstrated remarkable versatility across a spectrum of roles. His portrayal in the Netflix series ‘Guns and Gulaab’ received widespread acclaim, showcasing his ability to navigate the nuances of complex characters. Furthermore, his upcoming role in ‘Little Thomas’ is anticipated to reveal another facet of his talent. Directed by Kaushal Oza and featuring Rasika Dugal, ‘Little Thomas’ is described by Devaiah as a ‘detox experience’, allowing him to explore vulnerability and innocence through his character. This diversity in choice of roles underscores Devaiah’s fearless approach to acting, embodying characters that resonate with audiences on a profound level.
Looking Forward
As the release dates for the untitled action series and ‘Little Thomas’ draw near, anticipation among fans and critics alike is palpable. Devaiah’s enthusiasm for his craft and his continuous effort to challenge himself are what set him apart in an industry teeming with talent. His upcoming projects are not just a testament to his growth as an actor but also to the evolving landscape of Bollywood, where action and depth coalesce to create cinematic magic. With each role, Devaiah not only entertains but also invites viewers to delve deeper into the stories being told, making every performance a memorable one.
source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com/ BNN / Home> India / by Rafia Tasleem / February 22nd, 2024
Coorg district, Karnataka, famed for its greenery, faces severe water scarcity. Kushalanagar taluk, hit hardest, endanger both humans and wildlife. Shrinking water sources force wild animals into villages, disrupting livelihoods. Forest officer Ratan Kumar highlights the need for contingency plans amid the crisis.
Coorg district in Karnataka, renowned for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. As the region experiences a prolonged dry spell, both human inhabitants and wild animals are facing acute shortages of drinking water.
Kushalanagar taluk, In particular, nestled amidst semi-mountainous terrain, has been hit hard by the relentless absence of rainfall. The dire situation has led to concerns not only for the local populace but also for the myriad species of wildlife inhabiting the area.
Covering a vast expanse of 24,278.88 hectares, the forests of Kushalanagar Zone, including reserves like Dubare and Anekadu, are home to a rich assortment of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and sambar. Traditionally reliant on water sources such as the Kaveri River, Chiklihole Reservoir, and Harangi Reservoir, these creatures now find themselves confronting parched landscapes. The Kaveri River has dwindled to a mere trickle, while the Chiklihole Reservoir stands desiccated, leaving behind barren canals.
Within the forested areas, a handful of lakes remain, albeit with diminishing water levels. The scorching sun, with temperatures averaging between 29 to 30 degrees Celsius, poses a grave threat as it hastens the evaporation of these remaining water bodies.
The repercussions of this water scarcity extend beyond the confines of the forests. With wild animals compelled to seek sustenance elsewhere, instances of encroachment into nearby villages and coffee plantations have surged. Farmers, reliant on these plantations for their livelihoods, now face disruptions in their daily activities, compounded by labour shortages as workers are deterred by the unpredictable presence of wild animals.
Responding to inquiries, Ratan Kumar, the Forest Officer for Kushalanagar Zone, maintains that there is no immediate shortage of water within his jurisdiction. However, he acknowledges the pressing need for contingency plans should the situation worsen.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinay Kumar Patil / February 20th, 2024
Prof. K.C. Belliappa, former Vice-Chancellor, Central University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, will release the book Life and Times authored by K.B. Ganapathy (KBG), Founder-Editor, Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra at a programme organised by Samvahana, Mysuru, at Rani Bahadur Auditorium, Hunsur Road in city on Aug. 6 (Sunday) at 11 am.
Prof. K.S. Rangappa, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Mysore, will preside
Prof. C. Naganna, Retd. Professor, University of Mysore, will speak on the book.
Dr. M.R. Ravi, IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC), Bengaluru, will be the chief guest.
Author K.B. Ganapathy and Publisher D.N. Lokappa of Samvahana Publications, will be present at the event.
On the occasion, the book (soft bound), priced at Rs. 350, will be sold at discount price of Rs. 200 at the venue.
The Publisher can be contacted on Mob: 99026-39593 or 95354-61948.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / August 04th, 2023
Squash star Joshna Chinappa was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, in recognition for her contribution to the sport and to India.
Joshna Chinappa (Instagram/@joshnachinappa15)
Recognition– both national and international– isn’t elusive to sports star Joshna Chinappa. A Commonwealth Games gold medalist, a WSF World Doubles Champion, a two-time Asian Individual Champion, and the winner of five Asian Games medals… the list goes on. Adding another feather to her cap, squash player has now been awarded India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, the Padma Shri, in recognition for her contribution to the sport and to India.
One of Indian squash’s most successful players, Chinappa was ranked world number 10 in the professional squash circuit. The 37-year-old is also the first Indian to win the British Junior Squash Championship in 2005 in the Under 19 category. Chinappa has won the national squash championship for a record 18 times, which is the highest by an Indian player.
With so many achievements in hand, Chinappa is a proud ambassador for her sport and for India. While one may wonder if the Padma Award was long due, Chinappa humbly responds with, “I think the timing is just right.” Now that squash is being included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, Chinappa is excited about the possibilities that await.
In an email interaction Joshna Chinappa gets candid with South First about the award, what it means, and preparing for LA28.
Excerpts from the interview.
You have had a fabled career, and you are one of the most prominent faces of squash in the country. Do you think the Padma award was long due?
I feel extremely humbled and honoured to be given the Padma Shri. I think the timing is great! It feels nice that my career spanning over three decades has been recognised and appreciated.
What role has Chennai played in your growth as an athlete?
Chennai has been a big catalyst for me to pursue squash professionally. My dad introduced me to the game. He was my coach for a very long time. Besides, the squash federation is based in Chennai. That helped me to have access to good coaches and a structured training program.
Joshna Chinappa is looking forward to playing at the LA28. (Instagram/joshnachinappa15)
Could you give us a peek into the role of your coach in shaping your career?
My dad was my main coach for many years. I have worked with some solid coaches throughout the last two decades and all have contributed significantly in their own way.
How are you preparing for LA28?
It’s wonderful that squash is in LA 2028! I look forward to being fit and injury free!
Squash has finally made it to the Olympics, what does it mean for veterans like you? Do you think your career would have been different had it been included as an Olympic sport earlier?
Obviously. When it’s an Olympic sport, the financial support and encouragement is completely different from the government as well as the corporates. I do feel it would have made a huge difference especially in motivating more kids to take up squash and consider it as a career.
How are you preparing to compete with top seed players who are younger?
Squash is already a challenging sport physically. So, competing with the younger lot makes it exciting and harder on the body. I think training smart is the key.
How do you feel about the popularity of squash in India? What can be done to attract more people to the game?
The sport has definitely gotten a lot more popular in the last few years. We have been consistently winning medals at the CWG and Asian games. We need to have more infrastructure, qualified coaches and financial support given to the younger kids, so that they can focus on playing and training comfortably.
insta
Almost all sports persons talk about focussing on the process, and not the outcome, while playing the sport. And yet, when the outcome is not favourable, there is a natural disappointment. How do you pick yourself up after a not-so-great game?
I personally enjoyed the grind of training and preparing for an event. But it’s with the purpose to win a medal , so it is incredibly disappointing to not be able to pull that off on certain days. That’s what sport is, you won’t have your way all the time despite all the work you put in, but you have to find a way to come out of it and keep working harder, never giving up and eventually the wins will come.
What runs in your mind while in the heat of a game? How do you train your mind to face both healthy and unhealthy competition?
I try to focus on my game plan with each opponent. Sometimes when that doesn’t happen, I focus on the basics, one shot at a time. I do a lot of mental work too which is equally important as the physical aspect. Also surrounding yourself with the right people and team can help cut out the unnecessary noise.
How do you unwind?
Since my day is scheduled with training and recovery. On my off days, I really like to do nothing. I do play a lot of other sports which I enjoy and also, I read a bit.
source: http://www.thesouthfirst.com / South First / Home> Community & Culture / by Fathima Ashraf / February 15th, 2024
To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board has sent a proposal to the govt to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru.
Image used for representational purposes only.
Bengaluru :
With coffee doing well on global price charts, there is an increasing demand for more skilled labour. To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board of India has sent a proposal to the government to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru. Currently, the board has limited seats for its programmes and aims to introduce newer short-term courses for coffee enthusiasts.
Board Chief Executive Officer and Secretary Dr KG Jagadeesha said, “We run a one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Coffee Quality Management (PGDCQM), which is highly sought after. It is run in the Coffee Quality Division in Bengaluru and students also visit the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Chikkamagaluru for three months. Students get industry experiences such as visiting cafes, understanding roasteries and understanding the packaging and promotion. However, we can take only 15 individuals and the applications that come in are more than 500.”
The applicants are thoroughly reviewed based on sensory evaluation, interview and academic records and should have a bachelor’s degree in botany, zoology, food sciences, bioscience or agricultural sciences. The proposal submitted to the government is part of the five-year budgetary renewal during which the board lists down its vision and plans for the next term.
“The Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) proposal entails an exclusive centre for coffee and various skilling and upskilling programmes,” Jagadeesha said.
‘Will train 5K grads to make espresso’
“Even these 15 people who pass PG Diploma are placed in multinational companies within days and some even go to the Middle East with promising career opportunities. We need more seats as the market is expanding,” Jagadeesha explained. The board is awaiting approval and has also requested for a new facility to hold classes for at least 100 select students.
It is also looking at several upskilling initiatives in the next five years and training around one lakh women from rural areas and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to make coffees the right way.
“We are also going to train 5,000 graduates on how to make espresso coffee and help them explore the opportunities in the coffee business,” the CEO said.
There is a severe shortage of baristas in the industry. Coffee Board has also introduced a programme of training 1,000 baristas in the next three years and has already trained 150 so far, he added.
The short-term course for coffee enthusiasts, called the ‘Kaapi Shashtra’, for the year is tentatively scheduled for March 18-22 (exclusive batches) and interested individuals can keep a watch on the website. The main objective of the programme is to impart skills related to latest technologies in coffee roasting.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Puran Choudhary / February 12th, 2024
Jagadeesha added that there is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base.
The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience.
Coffee opportunities in India are very high. Despite the high price, Indian coffee is most preferred globally. The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience. Cafes have transformed into work stations for startups and this is good for the Indian economy, said Dr KJ Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board, in a conversation with the editors and staff of The New Sunday Express. Excerpts of the interview:
Tell us about the coffee scenario and the pricing concerns ….
Coffee in India is doing well, especially over the last three years, but we are not the price setters. Reason being, India’s overall contribution is around 4%. Brazil and Vietnam contribute 60% of the global production, and they set the price. But in the last few years there is supply disruption in Brazil and there is a shortage in supply globally. So, we are happy as Indian coffee is getting a good price. India is the 7th largest in terms of production and 5th largest in exports.
Can you please explain about exports?
Our exports are better than our production. We export, re-import and export all our coffee. Most of the instant coffee is made from coffee imported from cheaper destinations. Not a single Indian coffee bean is left unsold. There is very high demand for Indian coffee that even if we double production, traders say they will sell it. Indian coffees are expensive because they are grown under shade. Unlike in other countries like Brazil where it is open cultivation. When you grow under shade, coffee production is less by around 50%. But the quality is very good. This coffee takes longer to mature and has some unique characteristics that are not present in other coffee.
How is the coffee export business?
Around 80-90% of coffee is exported as green coffee. Green coffee can be kept for a year and usually, roasted coffee lasts only 15 days. Beyond that, the quality comes down. We export green coffee and then the seller blends it with different beans to get different notes. We export to 120 countries. Europe is our biggest market. We export about 60% of coffee grown here.
What about the rising number of private, instant and star-rated cafés and types of coffees served?
I am happy they are increasing. There is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base. In other countries, people drink 8-9 kg of coffee per annum, per capita, but we are 50-100 grams. People who are getting into coffee now are the new generation who feel coffee is the most affectionate and fashionable drink. They love to drink coffee even if it’s high priced. They drink coffee for the experience. Ambience should be great and products should be innovative. They don’t like drinking the same coffee every day. Cafes now have become work spaces where people exchange ideas and conduct business. Many start-ups are running their businesses or whole companies from these cafes. This is how we expect and want the coffee industry to grow. Growers will get better prices, employment will be generated and GDP will get a boost.
How does coffee compete with tea?
Tea and coffee are complementary beverages, not competitors. Consumers typically don’t switch between them. Coffee consumption, especially among the younger generation, is on the rise. Tea remains affordable and easy to make, while making quality coffee requires skill. Many aren’t aware that if coffee is boiled above 90 degrees Celsius, it’s a waste. In future, skill-based courses will be introduced for over one lakh self-help women’s groups, and also 5,000 college graduates will be trained.
What is the situation in Karnataka?
Karnataka is a leader in Indian coffee production, accounting for around 70%, though we have 50% of the area. In the last 3-5 years, the crop has been reasonably good and prices too.
Hasn’t climate change affected coffee production?
It has, as coffee is a sensitive crop. Even if there is a 15-day delay in rainfall, during March and April, the crop gets affected to a large extent. Climate change is something that needs to be taken seriously and addressed. The Coffee Board has taken several measures to address it like bringing some climate-resilient varieties, training farmers and providing incentives.
Did drought affect coffee plantations?
Drought effect was relatively low. The reason is that even if there is a 50% reduction in rainfall, coffee will still grow. The yield might be less, but 800-900 mm of rainfall is enough for the plantation and the impact has been minimal.
Which is the best variety of coffee?
While there are many varieties, one of the best is Chandragiri. Farmers also say that it is superior compared to any other variety across the globe. The yield is good and it is resistant to most of the rust viruses. The cupping quality is very good.
What about collaborative research?
Research should not be restricted to scientists and labs. It should be a joint effort between growers and scientists. Work on this started 2-3 years ago and we have identified elite robusta plants. Growers and scientists together shortlisted around 60-70 of them and found 8-10 varieties promising. They will be released as tissue culture and MoUs are being signed.
How many varieties do we have?
Right now eight have been developed in collaboration with farmers. Otherwise coffee has many varieties. Some 28 varieties have been given to us by private firms. There are cases where a variety does well in other countries, but not in India.
Do we have more varieties when compared to other countries?
Brazil may have more varieties than us. Other than Brazil, we have more. It does not mean anything. Farmers prefer the leading variety. We have also kept some varieties for cupping. If somebody says that I want quality and I am not worried about production then we have Selection 5 and 9 varieties. These two are excellent in cupping and taste.
What are the proposals before the Coffee Board in the coming days?
We have developed a new plan and it has been submitted to the government. It includes many things. To address labour shortage there is a plan for mechanisation. Second is quality improvement. Many say Indian coffee is excellent on the plant. But after harvesting, since it is poorly handled, quality dips. Importance is being given to harvesting and storing. Fermentation is important. It is done using different techniques to get different aromas. We are also looking at franchising India Coffee Houses to rural areas.
Are you also planning to add more coffee varieties to India Coffee Houses to compete with private players?
Coffee Board is a nodal agency to promote coffee as a sector. India Coffee Houses are not meant for competing. Given that there are a lot of nostalgic memories about them and people love to come there, we are working on expanding the menu. At the Queen’s Road Coffee House, the Board has collaborated with a social organisation that deals with specially-abled people. We complement each other.
How do people perceive the addition of chicory in coffee, considering its potential health implications?
The debate around chicory’s health impact exists. Chicory was brought in during the Second World War to meet the rising demand among soldiers when production was less. It continues to be blended even now. However, coffee has various health benefits. It’s beneficial for the heart and kidney, apart from being a refreshment. When chicory is mixed, the benefits of coffee get diluted.
How has urbanisation impacted coffee production?
Urbanisation is affecting everything, but its effect on coffee production is relatively limited due to the remote locations where coffee is typically grown.
How is the Board addressing man-elephant conflict?
It poses a significant challenge in coffee-growing regions, causing fear among residents and reluctance among labourers. The Board is actively engaging with the forest department and other authorities to address these issues.
Are there any courses being offered by the Board related to coffee for graduates?
We offer postgraduate diploma programmes and short courses focused on coffee, covering topics including cafe management and coffee trading.
What are the byproducts derived from coffee beans?
The use of coffee beans in the cosmetic industry is increasing. The leaf and pulp are used for skincare and makeup products. The leftover coffee after brewing is also used in making byproducts.
How many farmers are involved in the coffee industry, and is this number expected to increase?
There are about 4.7 lakh farmers working currently in India and it will increase in the coming years.
Are coffee plantations primarily done by small-scale farmers, or is there a monopoly in the industry?
It is a myth that coffee plantations are managed by affluent farmers. The reality is that 99% of the plantations are managed by small-scale farmers. Only around 1% of farmers are considered large growers but they occupy around 30% of the land.
What do you say about coffee tours gaining popularity?
Coffee tourism is gaining traction, providing coffee growers with an additional source of income. However, it’s crucial for both tourists and growers to responsibly manage activities to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem as regions where coffee is grown are in Western and Eastern Ghats.
What other types of businesses can be done with coffee besides opening a coffee shop?
People can establish their own coffee brand with their estate, offer consultancy services, provide technology solutions such as market information, engage in trading and roasting and explore businesses centered around deriving coffee byproducts.
Coffee Board has also ventured online and started selling, how has that progressed?
Customers came to the Board and requested us to start e-commerce so that they could easily purchase online. Today we have entire operations in the basement which has a roastery, grinder and 24×7 packing staff. As soon as we get an order we pack it and dispatch it. The initiative is doing well.
Does the Board have enough staff or are there too many vacancies?
There are of course limitations to hiring more staff. Currently, we have a vacancy of 50 people with a total sanctioned strength of 587. We are looking to expand in the north eastern regions and we need a lot of people to convince farmers, educate them and handle estates. We are also looking at promotion both in domestic and international events to build the brand value of Indian coffee and its quality.
Can coffee be grown on terrace gardens?
Coffee plants can be grown anywhere, outdoors or inside homes, however, it will not yield commercially viable beans or fruits. Some might have berries too but when you roast it and make a cup of coffee it doesn’t taste like coffee. Coffee requires an elevation of more than 500 metres above sea level and secondly, the rainfall has to be good. It also requires optimum shade to grow.
How successful was the coffee festival in terms of partnerships with other players?
We had more than 20-30 international brands who were present, around 200-300 Indian brands participated and around 400-500 buyer-sellers met formally. Strong relations were built that not just last for one year but go on for decades, once the buyer finds the perfect blend for himself there is no going back.
What do you want to say to youngsters who want to start a coffee business?
Coffee is a very passionate profession. I’ve seen people who make a profit not because they’re working for it but it’s about passion. They like growing coffee and living on the estate. I have seen Baristas who are passionate about making better coffee every day, they enjoy it.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 11th, 2024
WELCOME. If you like what you see "SUBSCRIBE via EMAIL" to receive FREE regular UPDATES.
Read More »
/bnn/media/post_attachments/content/uploads/2024/01/kodagu-districts-new-hockey-stadium-20240103160743.jpg)
/bnn/media/media_files/6c3675d007971676f672bb6218dae68ddf36bfc010c5e7d1f91e14b0190fc339.jpg)
