Karnataka to take up branding of Arabica coffees, promote coffee eco-tourism

Karnataka, the country’s largest coffee producer, is planning to take on the trademark of Arabica varieties grown in Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu districts. Besides, the government is also planning to promote coffee eco-tourism in the state.

Presenting the State Budget 2023-24, Chief Minister Siddarami said, “Arabica coffee varieties from Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu and Babapudanagiri which have unique flavor and aroma bear the GI Tag. Measures will be taken to promote the Karnataka coffee brand and encourage coffee ecotourism.”

Karnataka accounts for more than two-thirds of the coffee produced in the country. Of the 3.6 lakh tons of coffee produced in the country during 2022-23, as per the Coffee Board’s post-monsoon estimate, Karnataka accounted for 2.54 lakh tons. This included 72,945 tons of Arabica and 1.81 thousand tons of Robusta. Both types of coffee are grown in all three major producing regions of Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu and Hassan.

gardening sector

Moreover, Mr. Sidaramiah said that to enhance the country’s potential in the horticultural sector, emphasis will be placed on the production, processing, labeling and export of horticultural crops such as coconuts, areca nuts, grapes, pomegranates, mangoes and other fruits, vegetables and flowers. . “In the year 2023-24, provision has been made for disease control measures at a cost of Rs. five crore. Furthermore, eight cold storage units and processing units will be constructed for the processing and storage of horticultural products.”