Coffee Board of India: Driving the Growth of the Indian Coffee Industry
The Coffee Board of India is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, established in 1942. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the Coffee Board is responsible for research, development, promotion, and market intelligence of Indian coffee, ensuring the growth and sustainability of the coffee sector.
Key Functions and Initiatives
The Coffee Board of India plays a pivotal role in supporting coffee growers, enhancing coffee quality, and promoting Indian coffee globally through its various initiatives:
1. Research & Development
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Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) – Located in Balehonnur, Karnataka, focusing on:
- Breeding high-yield and disease-resistant coffee varieties.
- Developing sustainable farming techniques.
- Enhancing productivity through scientific research.
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Sustainable Coffee Production
- Initiatives to promote organic and shade-grown coffee.
- Research into climate-resilient coffee crops.
2. Extension Services & Farmer Support
- Training programs for small and large coffee growers.
- Financial aid & subsidy programs for plantation rejuvenation.
- Technical guidance on soil management, pest control, and harvesting.
3. Market Intelligence & Data Collection
- Coffee Market Intelligence Cell providing:
- Domestic and international price trends.
- Export data and coffee production reports.
- Demand-supply analysis to support policy decisions.
4. Coffee Promotion & Global Branding
- Domestic Coffee Consumption Drive – Initiatives to boost Indian coffee consumption.
- Export Promotion – Showcasing Indian coffee in global markets such as:
- USA, Europe, Japan, Middle East, and Russia.
- Geographical Indication (GI) Tagging – Protecting the identity of unique Indian coffee varieties like:
- Coorg Arabica Coffee
- Chikmagalur Coffee
- Araku Valley Coffee
- Bababudangiri Coffee
India's Coffee Industry: Facts & Figures
- India ranks as the 6th largest coffee producer in the world.
- Coffee production (2022-23) – Estimated at 3,60,000 metric tonnes.
- Exports account for 70% of total production, with key destinations being:
- Italy (30%)
- Germany (20%)
- Russia (10%)
- Belgium (8%)
- Top coffee-growing states:
- Karnataka (70%)
- Kerala (20%)
- Tamil Nadu (7%)
- Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Northeast India (3%)
Major Initiatives & Achievements
- India Coffee Branding – Promoting Indian-origin coffee in international markets.
- Digital Initiatives – Introduction of the Coffee Blockchain Initiative for traceability.
- Sustainable Certifications – Encouraging farmers to adopt Rainforest Alliance & UTZ Certified practices.
- Participation in Global Trade Shows – Representing India at World Coffee Expo, SCA Events, and international summits.
Certifications & Compliance
The Coffee Board of India ensures strict adherence to quality and sustainability standards:
- Fair Trade Certification
- Organic Certification for Indian Coffee
- Rainforest Alliance & UTZ Certification
- ISO Standards for Coffee Processing
Conclusion
The Coffee Board of India plays a crucial role in shaping India's coffee industry, supporting farmers, exporters, and traders while ensuring the global competitiveness of Indian coffee. Through scientific research, sustainable practices, and marketing initiatives, the organization is driving growth, innovation, and sustainability in the coffee sector.
