Itanagar, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh has called for a concerted effort to expand coffee cultivation in the state, improve productivity, enhance bean quality, and strengthen the value chain to increase the income of coffee producers. Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘Hills to Cup’ coffee workshop, Khandu highlighted that only 600 hectares of land in Arunachal Pradesh is currently dedicated to coffee farming, according to agricultural department data.
Khandu noted that coffee is not a new crop for the state, having been introduced nearly five decades ago. However, he pointed out that awareness about its potential has not significantly grown over the years, nor has it been adequately promoted.
Describing the workshop as a new beginning for coffee cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh, Khandu stated that it brings together farmers, young entrepreneurs, technical experts, and other stakeholders on a single platform. He remarked, “In a way, this marks the first chapter in the advancement of coffee history in Arunachal Pradesh.”
The chief minister assured that the state government would formulate appropriate policies to support coffee growers and entrepreneurs. He revealed that a team of three members, including agricultural officials and a retired PCCF, has been formed to study coffee cultivation methods and development models by visiting Andhra Pradesh and other states.
Khandu emphasized that the workshop would help identify technical shortcomings and challenges faced by farmers. Following this, technical experts from the Coffee Board of India will prepare recommendations for the state government. He reassured participants, stating, “Whatever suggestions they provide, the state government will extend full support in the coming days.”
He acknowledged that while the state government has initiated several measures and schemes for agriculture and horticulture over the past five to six years, no specific policies for coffee have been established yet. Khandu plans to engage with the Coffee Board of India to explore specific policy measures that could support this sector.
He noted that a significant portion of existing plantations falls under the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Corporation in eastern Arunachal, while several farmers participating in the workshop have initiated coffee cultivation as pilot or model projects.
Khandu pointed out that the state’s diverse agricultural conditions, fertile land, and varying climates provide a solid foundation for expanding coffee farming. He stressed that the objective should not only be to increase the area under cultivation but also to enhance per hectare yields, improve coffee bean quality, and strengthen the value chain to boost farmers’ incomes.
Highlighting the opportunities for young entrepreneurs, Khandu mentioned that the growing tourism sector in Arunachal Pradesh could create additional avenues for coffee growers and businesses. “Tourists visiting Arunachal always appreciate coffee. With the rise in tourism, this presents a great opportunity for our youth,” he said.
He urged young people to explore coffee cultivation, processing, and related businesses as viable employment and entrepreneurship options, emphasizing the need to seize emerging opportunities in this sector.
Khandu also shed light on the expanding global market for coffee and its potential as a commercial crop, while noting the health benefits associated with coffee consumption.
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