Kodagu’s Sevikae Uralu on anthropological display
Mysuru:
The August edition of the ‘Object Speaks’ series exhibition was inaugurated at the Zonal Anthropological Museum of the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI), Southern Regional Centre, Mysuru, by the students and teachers of STG Public School, Mandya.
Dr. Mithun Sikdar, Head of Office, Anthropological Survey of India, Southern Regional Centre, Mysuru, encouraged the students to appreciate India’s rich cultural diversity through museum collections and indigenous traditions.
The highlight of this month’s exhibition is the ‘Sevikae Uralu’, a traditional wooden hand-operated vermicelli press used by the Panjiri Yerava community of Kodagu District.
Crafted from durable jackfruit wood, the ethnographic object reflects the ingenuity of indigenous technology and the community’s close association with food, family and tradition.
More than a kitchen implement, the ‘Sevikae Uralu’ symbolises collective labour, sustainable craftsmanship and the preservation of cultural identity across generations.
The exhibition traces the journey of Karnataka’s traditional handmade rice vermicelli (shavige or ottu shavige), prepared using the ‘Sevikae Uralu’.
It explains how steamed rice dough is transformed into delicate strands of vermicelli and highlights the historical significance of this culinary tradition, which has been cherished across coastal and southern Karnataka for centuries.
The display also explores the oral traditions of the Panjiri Yerava community, where the ‘Sevikae Uralu’ occupies a significant place in ancestral stories, agricultural life and community memory.
Through informative panels and engaging narratives, visitors can learn about the cultural heritage of the Panjiri Yeravas, their traditional lifestyle, indigenous knowledge systems and the enduring legacy of Karnataka’s food culture.
The exhibition illustrates how a simple household object can tell stories of history, identity, innovation and living heritage.
Curated by Dr. Banita Behera, the exhibition will remain open at the Zonal Anthropological Museum till Aug.31. Students, researchers and the general public can visit the exhibition and explore the story behind one of Kodagu’s traditional culinary implements.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / by Star of Mysore / August 08th, 2026
‘Rethinking language biases would enable us to look more holistically at agroecological practices’
Molecular biologist Sujata Goel on the importance of “weeds”, modern approaches in science communication & India’s organic farming policies.
Nearly 30 years ago, molecular biologists Sujata Goel and her partner Anurag left Delhi to build a life closer to nature in Karnataka’s Kodagu district. Over the years, they began working closely with local farmers to understand how agroecological plantations could be developed at scale, combining their expertise in academic biology with generations of local ecological knowledge to co-create natural solutions for coffee and spice plantations. Communication techniques that closed language and knowledge gaps were essential in this confluence of modern scientific understanding with centuries-old local wisdom.
The couple has been actively researching natural alternatives to chemical pesticides, starting with a makeshift laboratory on a wooden table on their 25-acre ecologically sustaining plantation to test how certain plant species that are considered “weeds” have properties to turn away pests and provide other benefits to cultivated plants. Since then, Sujata has taken their research to public platforms and official channels to advocate for bans on use of agri chemicals in Coorg’s coffee and spice plantations. Coorg is home to Talakaveri, the source of River Kaveri — the lifeline of multiple South Indian states. The chemicals sold to and used by planters, seep into the soil and contaminate this vital waterbody.
Today, Sujata works with a small team of farmers, naturalists and conservationists to bring awareness about the lethal impacts of weedicides that has gradually crept into the agricultural practices in and around plantations in this area.
She has also taken these ideas to the international stage through the Organic Farming Association of India, serving as its president and helping organise a global symposium in 2017. In the conversation with Down To Earth, she discusses the methods and importance of such dialogue, the evolving approaches of communicating science with local communities and what she has learnt about organic farming in India as a practitioner.
Preetha Banerjee: How has science communication changed over the years and what channels and techniques do you use to raise awareness among local farmers? What has been the impact of the Internet?
Sujata Goel: Most people across villages including farmers use the internet comprehensively. Several village Panchayats, Planters and Farmers have created Whatsapp groups to exchange and share information regarding everything related to cultivation, from weather forecasts to agricultural practices, government schemes and subsidies available, and other related matters. We are using such platforms in collaborations with scientists to spread awareness about the carcinogenic and lethal effects of many of the agrichemicals which are rampantly being used in the fields now. It is important to remember that these lands constitute a catchment area being the primary recipients of the South-west monsoons, providing water for much of peninsular India. Spraying pesticides and weedicides around paddy fields have contaminated wetlands, which is extremely dangerous since these wetlands are the life source of all flowing water. These wetlands are also precious because they recharge ground water and must be protected from such thoughtless destruction at all costs.
PB: Over three decades of working with farmers, how have you seen science communication evolve?
SG: Whatsapp groups and Instagram seem to be the most accessible to farmers. Since multiple language use is now possible, these are popular, especially in rural areas. Several workshops are also held remotely, and farmers are able to attend them from their own places of residence and work. This helps cut costs of holding such study programs and enables organisations such as Organic Farming Association of India (OFAI) to invite scientists to such platforms without disrupting their work schedules.
PB: Modern agricultural science promotes a negative association with “weeds”. Is there another way to look at weeds? What have you learnt from traditional wisdom and your own research?
SG: Words like “pest” and “weed” have evolved through western agricultural practices. They tend to designate some species desirable and others not. Many native plants which we call weeds were consumed as food not long ago and continue to do so. Many species which we eliminate under the garb of “weeds” play an essential role not only in the overall ecosystem, but also in producing our own food. They not only create habitats for local biodiversity but also offer pollinators necessary grounds for foraging and survival. Rethinking our language biases would enable us to look more holistically at the philosophy behind our practices.
This brings us to the issue of weedicides, which have slowly infiltrated Kodagu’s coffee plantations in the past ten years. We now notice deformities and dead bodies of animals in the once-lively streams that are the arteries of this landscape. The poisoning of freshwater species is just an indicator of the impact these chemicals have on human health.
This year, in February 2026, the multinational company, Bayers, announced that it will pay $7.25 billion to settle thousands of US lawsuits alleging that its Roundup weedkiller has caused a vast number of individual cases of cancer. That these family of carcinogenic agri-chemicals were lethal to all life forms was substantiated by rigorous scientific research decades ago and has been available in the public domain, and yet their marketing continues unabated. Are these the substances which international companies promote and enforce on the planet and escape all forms of control? Who becomes accountable for such acts of deliberate genocide?
PB: Why is it important to think about biodiversity as an entire ecosystem rather than as individual species? What does this mean for agricultural productivity?
SG: Sustenance of the ecology of a farm depends upon the richness of its biological diversity. Plants and insects, fungi and soil microorganisms have all co-evolved for millions of years. Good farming practices aim to understand the importance of biodiversity and try to mimic nature by providing niches for diverse plants, animals, insects, bacteria and fungi. The ‘ecosystem services’ provided by this biodiversity are invaluable, not just for farmers, but for all of life surrounding us. These range from encouraging populations of pollinators, soil recharge and nutrient cycling, disease regulation, water harnessing, and carbon sequestration among others.
On organic farms such as ours that have no trace of chemicals around, parasitic and predatory insects colonise native plant species and play significant roles in maintaining disease-free crops. Integration of fallow areas, leaving riparian stretches rich with local weeds, and generous mulching has allowed a rich buildup of biodiversity in the fields. As a result, we now have excellent populations of spiders, wasps, dragonflies, frogs, lizards, snakes and a wide range of birds, all of which contribute towards building up of a diverse and healthy agri-ecosystem.
Birds are amazing for their ability feed on insects and caterpillars; spiders are indiscriminate trappers of a whole range of insects. Wasps lay their eggs on larvae, which hatch and being carnivorous, start feeding on the grubs which would otherwise damage the crops. Bats, frogs, skinks, lizards, shrews, mantids, are insect feeders and form an intricate link in the food web of the forest ecosystem.
Beneficial microorganisms contribute to a rise in detritus activity of the soil, increased nitrogen fixation, and increase in nutrient cycles. Areas where grasslands are encouraged become sponges for harnessing rainwater to replenish water tables and aquifers. It is these who are the true regenerators of our soils and agri-ecosystems.
PB: How has India’s approach to organic farming changed over the past three decades?
SG: Across our agricultural landscapes, farmers are beginning to feel the “bite” of 60 years of aftermath of the green revolution. Widespread losses due to climate extremes being experienced in different parts of the world now are adding to the need to desperately regenerate degraded lands. This is possible only through farming practices which totally exclude use of agri-chemicals, and at the same time, enabling viable practices to revive our soils.
There is no half measure. The governing bodies of our country must make up their minds that when they announce policies and projects to support organic farming, whether that is their true intent and how such projects can be implemented in light of subsidies and other supportive mechanisms offered for purchases of the very agri-chemicals which are responsible for the damage. Through field-based education and changes in policies to ensure that farmers are economically protected, it is possible to scale up on organic practices to feed our populations. This has been amply demonstrated by the truly progressive farmers across the world.
source: http://www.downtoearth.org.in / Down To Earth / Home> Environment / by Preetha Banerjee / August 22nd, 2026
A forest, a private lake, in-resort helipad and 71 villas: Inside Coorg’s new luxury sanctuary
Set across 76 acres of lush Coorg forest, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary brings together secluded luxury villas, immersive nature trails, local cuisine and expansive wellness experiences. From private pools and heritage coffee rituals to birdwatching and the Aujasya spa, this is Coorg designed for slowing down in style.
At the Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, bamboo-canopied architecture and laterite stone come together to embellish the 71 secluded luxury villas, each of which offer a distinct experience
Nestled in a 76-acre estate in the heart of Coorg, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary marks a new foray for one of India’s finest hospitality brands. From verdant landscapes and nature trails, local flavours, curated wellness programs and astounding birdlife, Leela’s first wellness-anchored forest sanctuary allows you to truly immerse yourself in the best of Coorg.
Secluded luxury villas
Bamboo-canopied architecture and laterite stone come together to embellish the 71 secluded luxury villas, each of which offer a distinct experience. The Presidential Villa is an abode in itself with easy access to the in-resort helipad. It combines four villas with a drawing room that will transport you to a colonial-era, planters club replete with leather sofas and dark wood.
The large private kitchen at the villa can be manned by one of Leela’s chefs or your own personal Chef. The accommodation also includes a large private pool with a poolside bar and a dedicated gym. Villa options include the massive 3,200 sq. ft.
The Forestlight Villa includes a stunning outdoor lounge, and a temperature-controlled pool with twin massage beds on the deck. There’s also the Mistwood Villa which features two large indoor spaces, a private pool with a deck and a jacuzzi.
For your taste buds
Zen, Leela’s signature Pan Asian restaurant, plays out in a new setting. Located over a shimmering water body, this outdoor paradise offers a choice of private gazebos that overlook acres of green landscapes. The menu includes Zen’s signature sushi rolls and dim sums with a cocktail program that incorporates local ingredients. Some of these ingredients also play out in the cocktail program at The Cellar, the resort’s cosy bar that’s tucked away under the all-day diner. Do check out the bar’s signature cocktail, the Kachampuli Highball with a tangy Coorg slant.
The Presidential Villa at the Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary is an abode in itself with easy access to the in-resort helipad
Luma, the all-day diner, offers some of the best views of the private lake within the resort. Ask for the chef’s specially curated local menu where emblematic dishes like the pandi (pork) curry and ingredients like bamboo shoot are usually in the mix. I’d also recommend a signature heritage coffee curation experience at 92 degrees, the resort’s dedicated coffee lounge that allows you to get up close with Coorg’s coffee heritage. You will be tempted to take advantage of the resort’s elaborate in-room dining menu that blends the best of Asian, European and Indian flavours.
Rejuvenate, relax in luxury
The 27,000 sq. ft. Aujasya by The Leela Spa is one of the biggest in any luxury resort in India. With 25 treatment rooms spread over multiple levels, it’s easy to find your zen space. The spa offers a hammam and treatments from across the world. You can also opt for the in-villa spa experience. The large Vinyasa deck on the edge of the lake offers yoga and pranayama sessions. There are a host of activities, including kayaking on the private lake, that truly let you unwind.
The 27,000 sq. ft. Aujasya by The Leela Spa is one of the biggest in any luxury resort in India
Trails, at your doorstep
The best trails begin at your doorstep. Sign up for one of the nature walks that are worth waking up early for. The resort is a hub for Coorg’s fabled birdlife. It’s not unusual to spot at least 25 species of birds during the space of a 90-minute walk through the resort. Look out for woodpeckers and hornbills as well as the Giant Malabar Squirrel (one of the world’s largest squirrels) as it leaps from one tree to the next. Coorg’s popular attractions like Talacauvery (where the Cauvery river originates) and Abbey Falls are easily accessible from the resort. Do make time to visit Namdroling Nyinmape, a Tibetan monastery in Bylakuppe (45 minutes from the resort) that is home of one India’s largest Tibetan communities.
Plan your stay
The resort is about six hours from the Bengaluru International Airport. The Kannur International Airport is three hours away. You could combine your trip to the resort with a pit-stop in Mysore (three hours away). The in-resort helipad also allows you to arrive on a chartered helicopter service.
Flaunt insider tip
If you’re planning a romantic break, do book the Forestlight Villa with an intimate bedroom, a large outdoor lounge and outdoor showers.
source: http://www.firstpost.com / First Post / Home> First Post Flaunt> Travel / by Ashwin Rajagopalan / August 26th, 2026
Biota Coorg brews global strategy, with Australia on the map
Image Source: Biota Coorg
From the misty slopes of Kodagu to the boutique cafés of Melbourne, India’s specialty coffee is preparing to make another leap across continents. Biota Coorg Farmer Producer Company Ltd, a collective of 122 small and medium coffee growers in Karnataka’s famed coffee belt, is setting its sights on the Australian market in a bold move to expand its export footprint, boost value addition, and deepen its identity as a producer of traceable, sustainable, and high-quality beans.
Australia, with its sophisticated café culture, artisanal roasters, and rising consumer awareness of origin-based coffees, represents fertile ground for Biota’s next phase of international growth. The collective, headquartered in India’s largest coffee-producing district, has built a model that is part agricultural co-op, part ethical brand-builder. It assists its grower-members in post-harvest processing, collective marketing, and navigating international trade—functions that are traditionally out of reach for smallholder farmers operating independently. The result is a more stable income, higher returns per bean, and a stronger voice in the global value chain.
Biota’s ambition to enter the Australian market aligns with a broader shift in Indian coffee exports, which rose 19 per cent year-on-year in Q1 FY25, signaling sustained global demand for premium Indian arabicas and robustas. The group already sells to several countries including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, and Portugal, and exported around 80 tonnes last year, with a goal of surpassing 100 tonnes in the current fiscal. But beyond volume, Biota’s deeper play lies in branding and sustainability—two pillars increasingly shaping the premium coffee market worldwide.
Sustainability is not just a marketing veneer for Biota—it is embedded in its production ethos. Half of its member farms are already Rainforest Alliance certified, and the remainder are undergoing certification. The group has also positioned itself to comply with the upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulation, which will require rigorous traceability of agricultural imports into the EU. This compliance-readiness not only secures existing export channels but builds a strong foundation for expansion into regulation-conscious markets like Australia.
The push into Australia also reflects Biota’s evolution from being a commodity supplier to a brand-builder. With the global coffee industry undergoing a structural shift—from commodity to craft, from anonymity to traceability—Biota is working to develop its own identity that reflects the terroir of Kodagu, its ecological richness, and the collective power of its farmer members. Kodagu’s biodiversity, rainfall, and shaded agroforestry systems give its coffees a unique profile that resonates with discerning global consumers seeking both quality and ethical production.
Australia’s coffee culture, which prizes direct sourcing, sustainable partnerships, and taste-driven narratives, could prove a natural next step for Biota. The group is seeking to hold virtual cupping sessions with Australian roasters, and is actively pursuing connections with distributors, retailers, and promotional platforms in the region. The potential payoff is more than market access—it’s the chance to embed a South Indian cooperative directly into the fabric of a global specialty coffee community.
Biota’s strategy mirrors the broader ambition of India’s agricultural collectives: to shift from being price takers to value creators, from invisible nodes in a global chain to recognised origin brands. With a focus on certification, traceability, and producer empowerment, the Kodagu-based FPC offers a blueprint for how Indian agri-cooperatives can rewrite their roles in global trade—not by scaling up indiscriminately, but by scaling smart, sustainable, and strategic.
As India’s coffee exports find new momentum and global buyers seek transparent, climate-friendly sourcing, Biota’s bid to enter Australia is not just a market expansion—it’s a recalibration of how Indian coffee tells its story to the world.
source: http://www.biotacoorg.com/ Biota Coorg / Home> Value Chain> News / by Agro Spectrum / July 11th, 2025
SCA announces board of directors candidates
Sunalini Menon started working for the Coffee Board of India in 1971. Image CoffeeLab
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has announced the candidates for its latest SCA Board of Directors Elections.
Following nominations and then interviews with the SCA Nominations Committee, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC; Sunalini N. Menon, President of Coffeelab Limited; and Karsten Ranitzsch, Global Head of Coffee at Nestle Nespresso S.A have been shortlisted.
From 1 to 30 September, a Nominations by Petition period will commence. Applicants not selected through the nominations and interview process who collect at least 100 signatures from SCA professional members or the primary contact of a company member can be added to the final ballot by petition.
The final ballot will be announced on 13 October. SCA members will be invited to vote for the new director from 1 to 30 November, with the result of the election to be announced on 15 December.
The SCA Board of Directors consists of 15 volunteer members, supported by CEO Yannis Apostolopouloss and the SCA staff. According to the organisation, the board supports the work of the SCA and provides mission-based leadership and strategic governance.
The SCA is the world’s largest coffee trade association. It was established in 2017 with the merger of the Specialty Coffee Association of America and the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe.
source : http://www.gcmag.com / Global Coffee Report / Home> News / by Kathryn Lewis / August 28th, 2026
Coffee exports surge as Robusta powers India’s trade growth
Total coffee shipments, including re-exports, rose to 318,287 tonnes by August 23, driven by robusta and instant coffee, even as rising inventories and Brazil’s harvest outlook pushed global prices lower
India’s coffee exports are running well ahead of last year’s pace, powered by strong shipments of robusta and a sharp increase in instant coffee re-exports. But the export momentum is unfolding against a more complicated backdrop: global coffee prices have started to retreat as expectations of a faster Brazilian harvest and rising robusta inventories weigh on the market. According to the Coffee Board’s Daily Coffee Market Report dated August 24, 2026, India’s total provisional coffee exports, including re-exports, reached 318,287 metric tonnes between January 1 and August 23, 2026, compared with 258,066 metric tonnes during the corresponding period last year. That represents an increase of roughly 23.3 per cent, highlighting the strong momentum in India’s coffee trade during the first eight months of the year.
Indian coffee exports alone, excluding re-exports, stood at 239,828 tonnes, up from 193,975 tonnes during the corresponding period last year. This translates into a growth of nearly 24 per cent, with robusta emerging as the largest contributor to the increase.
Robusta Leads the Export Charge
The biggest movement came from robusta cherry, where provisional exports climbed to 135,480 tonnes, compared with 105,223 tonnes a year earlier. That is an increase of nearly 29 per cent, making robusta cherry by far the largest category in India’s coffee export basket during the period. Arabica parchment exports rose to 39,380 tonnes, from 31,400 tonnes in the same period last year, while Arabica cherry shipments increased to 10,360 tonnes, compared with 8,715 tonnes. In contrast, robusta parchment exports slipped marginally to 18,896 tonnes from 19,230 tonnes. Roasted coffee seed exports rose to 72 tonnes, against 51 tonnes in the previous year, while roast and ground coffee increased to 343 tonnes from 290 tonnes.
The other major contributor was instant coffee. Provisional exports of Indian instant coffee rose to 35,297 tonnes, compared with 29,066 tonnes in the corresponding period last year. In addition, provisional instant coffee re-exports reached 78,459 tonnes, up from 64,090 tonnes a year earlier. This took total instant coffee shipments, including re-exports, to 113,756 tonnes, compared with 93,156 tonnes last year.
The numbers underline an important feature of India’s coffee trade. While green coffee continues to dominate exports, the role of value-added and re-exported instant coffee has become increasingly significant. Of the total 318,287 tonnes shipped during the period, instant coffee, including re-exports, accounted for more than one-third of the total export volume.
Global Coffee Prices Turn Lower
The export strength, however, is coming at a time when international coffee markets are losing some of their recent momentum. According to the Coffee Board’s market analysis, coffee prices settled sharply lower in the latest trading session, with robusta falling to a one-week low. The market came under pressure on expectations that drier weather in Brazil could accelerate the country’s coffee harvest. At the same time, rising inventories added to concerns over robusta supply.
ICE robusta inventories climbed to an 8.75-month high of 4,732 lots, adding further pressure to the market. December Arabica futures declined by 2.02 per cent, or 6.65 US cents per pound, to close at 322.65 US cents per pound. September ICE robusta futures fell by 2.81 per cent, or $104 per tonne, to settle at $3,598 per tonne. The futures curve also reflected a softer price outlook across later contracts. Arabica futures for September 2026 were quoted at 358.75 US cents per pound, equivalent to about Rs 757.06 per kg, while the December 2026 contract stood at 322.65 US cents per pound, or approximately Rs 680.88 per kg. The March 2027 contract was lower at 309.75 US cents per pound, equivalent to around Rs 653.65 per kg.
Robusta futures showed a similar pattern. September 2026 robusta was quoted at $3,598 per tonne, equivalent to approximately Rs 344.40 per kg, while the November 2026 contract was at $3,618 per tonne, or around Rs 346.31 per kg. The January 2027 contract stood at $3,600 per tonne, equivalent to approximately Rs 344.59 per kg. The Coffee Board report used an exchange rate of Rs 95.72 per US dollar.
Indicator Prices Show a Wide Arabica-Robusta Gap
The International Coffee Organization’s group indicator prices also showed the continued premium commanded by Arabica.
Other Mild Arabica was quoted at 370.78 US cents per pound, or approximately Rs 782.44 per kg, compared with 370.03 US cents per pound in the previous reading. Robusta, meanwhile, was quoted at 182.18 US cents per pound, or about Rs 384.45 per kg, marginally lower than the previous level of 182.20 US cents per pound. The difference between Arabica and robusta prices remains substantial, although the global market is increasingly being shaped by expectations around supply conditions, particularly in Brazil, and the movement of exchange-traded inventories.
Karnataka Prices Remain Firm
Despite the correction in international futures, raw coffee prices in Karnataka remained firm as of August 23.
Arabica parchment was quoted between Rs 25,000 and Rs 25,500 per 50 kg, while Arabica cherry traded in the range of Rs 13,700 to Rs 15,000 per 50 kg. Robusta parchment was priced between Rs 18,000 and Rs 18,500 per 50 kg, while robusta cherry was quoted at Rs 10,000 to Rs 11,000 per 50 kg. At the auction level, Arabica Plantation PB was quoted at Rs 708 per kg, while the AA grade stood at Rs 700 per kg. Grade A was priced at Rs 671 per kg, BBB at Rs 574 per kg, and C at Rs 416.50 per kg.
In the robusta segment, Robusta Parchment AA was quoted at Rs 450 per kg, while BBB was priced at Rs 395 per kg and AAA at Rs 381 per kg. Robusta Cherry AB was quoted at Rs 406 per kg, with BBB at Rs 393 per kg and AAA at Rs 379 per kg. The Coffee Board data also showed differentials across coffee categories. Arabica Plantation A was quoted at New York +15 to +18, while Arabica Cherry AB was at New York -25 to -30. Robusta Parchment AB carried a differential of LIFFE +1,300 to +1,500, while Robusta Cherry AB was quoted at LIFFE +350 to +415.
Export Growth Meets a More Difficult Pricing Environment
The bigger question for India’s coffee sector is whether the strong volume performance can continue if global prices remain under pressure.
The Coffee Board’s latest report points to two forces working in opposite directions. On one side, Indian exports are showing strong growth across several categories, with robusta cherry and instant coffee emerging as the biggest drivers. On the other, expectations of faster harvesting in Brazil and a build-up in robusta inventories are beginning to weigh on international benchmark prices. For exporters, that could mean a shift from a market defined largely by strong volumes to one where realisations become increasingly important. Higher shipments do not automatically translate into proportionately higher export earnings if benchmark prices continue to soften.
For now, India’s coffee industry has a substantial volume cushion. Total shipments have already crossed 318,000 tonnes before the end of August, while Indian-origin coffee exports alone are approaching 240,000 tonnes. Robusta cherry has consolidated its position as the dominant export category, while instant coffee continues to strengthen India’s presence in the higher-value segment of the trade.
The months ahead will determine whether this export momentum can be sustained in a changing global market. Brazil’s harvest progress, global inventory levels, currency movements and the direction of Arabica and robusta futures will all influence the price Indian exporters can command. The current numbers, however, leave little doubt about one thing: India is shipping significantly more coffee into the global market than it did a year ago. The next challenge will be to ensure that volume growth is matched by sustainable realisations.
— Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com)
source: http://www.agrospectrumindia.com / Agro Spectrum / Home> Allied Industries> News / by / Suchetana Choudhury /August 27th, 2026
Tamara Leisure Experiences Shines With Five FHRAI Awards Across Hotels, Talent and Wellness
Tamara Leisure Experiences (TLE) has written another chapter in its success story by winning five key awards at the FHRAI 56th Annual Convention. The awards are a testimony of TLE’s focus on leadership, innovation in food and beverage, engagement of employees, performance of properties and social wellness. The awards appreciate TLE for providing experiences with a ‘people’ and a ‘purpose’ touch and incorporating ‘place’ through real time experiences offered during their stays.
The awards reflect the diverse strengths of TLE’s hospitality portfolio. At The Tamara Coorg, Mohd Jafar was honoured as Hotel Front Office Manager of the Year – Luxury Hotels (Male), recognising his contribution to delivering exceptional guest service. Chef Baranidharan M from O by Tamara Coimbatore received the title of Executive Chef of the Year – Midscale Hotels (Male) for his culinary leadership and innovation. Jijo Mathew from O by Tamara Thiruvananthapuram was recognised as Human Resources Manager of the Year – Upscale Hotels (Male), highlighting the group’s strong focus on talent development and workplace excellence.
Further strengthening TLE’s achievement, O by Tamara Coimbatore was awarded Best Upscale Hotel of the Year, while Amal Tamara received the award for Best Wellness Resort. The recognition celebrates Amal Tamara’s unique approach to holistic Ayurvedic wellness and its efforts to provide transformative wellbeing experiences. Together, these accolades underline TLE’s continued pursuit of excellence across its properties and its dedication to redefining contemporary hospitality.
Speaking on the recognition, Samir M.C., CEO, Tamara Leisure Experiences, said, “These recognitions are particularly meaningful because they reflect the different elements that come together to define Tamara – our people, our destinations and the experiences we create. We have always believed that responsible and memorable hospitality is built through authentic engagement with our guests, our teams and the places in which we operate. To see this philosophy recognised across both individual and property categories is a strong affirmation of the work our teams do every day.”
The FHRAI 56th Annual Convention, hosted from August 21 to 23, 2026, at Taj Ganges, welcomed over 1,000 delegates from India and international markets, including policymakers, hospitality leaders and key stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality sector. The event provided a significant platform for discussions, partnerships and industry collaboration, focusing on the changing priorities and future direction of Indian hospitality.
The recognition highlights TLE’s core belief that hospitality should extend beyond delivering memorable guest stays and create a positive impact on people, communities and the destinations where its properties operate. This commitment is reflected through its strong focus on local employment, with nearly half of its workforce recruited from surrounding communities. By generating employment opportunities and supporting local livelihoods, TLE ensures its properties remain deeply connected with regional traditions, cultural identity and the natural landscapes that define each destination.
With modern travellers increasingly searching for authentic experiences, cultural connections and meaningful journeys, TLE continues to develop hospitality concepts that celebrate a strong sense of place. From the nature-inspired luxury of The Tamara Coorg and stylish urban experiences at O by Tamara to the personalised Ayurvedic wellness offerings at Amal Tamara, each property reflects a unique interpretation of responsible hospitality. Through its philosophy of Responsible and Memorable Hospitality, TLE focuses on preserving local heritage, strengthening communities and creating experiences that deliver lasting value for guests and the destinations they visit.
source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Travel andTour World (TTW) Home> Hotel News / by Benny Mehera / August 25th, 2026
Thekkada Bhavani from Kodagu wins silver medal in cross-country skiing in New Zealand
While the main event spans 42 km, the 21 km race offered Bhavani a strategic platform to venture into long-distance racing and ski-marathon formats.
Madikeri :
In a notable achievement for Indian winter sports, Thekkada Bhavani from Kodagu has secured a silver medal at the Merino Muster cross-country skiing event held at Snow Farm in New Zealand.
Competing in the Women’s 30s age category for the 21 km race on August 22, Bhavani completed the course in 1:34:38, making her the first Indian woman to both participate in and win a medal at an official Worldloppet Skiing Federation event.
The Merino Muster stands as one of New Zealand’s premier long-distance cross-country skiing competitions and serves as a key leg on the international Worldloppet circuit.
While the main event spans 42 km, the 21 km race offered Bhavani a strategic platform to venture into long-distance racing and ski-marathon formats.
Bhavani’s remarkable finish in New Zealand is another addition to her recent international successes.
During the 2025-26 winter season, Bhavani earned distinction as the first Indian woman to win an International Skiing and Snowboard Federation (FIS) medal.
She also holds the honour of being the first Indian cross-country skier to qualify and race in the FIS Cross-Country Ski World Cup, expanding her competitive range from sprint and distance races into long-distance endurance circuits.
Bhavani is currently undergoing an extended international training program at Snow Farm. Her preparation and international exposure have been made possible through financial and logistical backing from the Reliance Foundation and the Government of Karnataka, which contributed Rs 10 lakh through its Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports to support her training.
Reflecting on her achievement, Bhavani noted that competing in her first Worldloppet race served as an important test of her endurance training.
She expressed that earning a category win in the 21 km event provides substantial confidence as she prepares for the upcoming international season.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home / by Express News Service / August 25th, 2026
Kodagu: Unauthorised trekking, drone flights banned in Nelji-Peruru
In a press release, the department said it had noticed the promotion of such activities through social media.
The department warned that unauthorised entry into adjoining forest areas beyond the boundaries of private land constitutes a punishable forest offence under the Karnataka Forest Act, 1963. | Photo Credit: File photo
The Forest Department has cautioned the public against organising commercial mass trekking and tourism activities in Nelji, Peruru and surrounding areas, which are known for their rich floral wealth, including Strobilanthes species, and natural water sources.
In a press release, the department said it had noticed the promotion of such activities through social media. The areas are located close to forest regions and form part of a sensitive wildlife habitat frequented by wild elephants.
The department warned that unauthorised entry into adjoining forest areas beyond the boundaries of private land constitutes a punishable forest offence under the Karnataka Forest Act, 1963.
It also prohibited activities that could damage the sensitive shola-grassland ecosystem, including plucking, trampling or destroying native vegetation. Unauthorised drone flights over forest areas are also prohibited under the applicable forest and wildlife protection laws, the release added.
The department said uncontrolled tourism activities in sensitive zones frequented by elephants could pose a serious threat to human life. In the event of wildlife conflict, injury, loss of life or any other untoward incident during such tourism activities, the organisers and agencies concerned would be held directly responsible under applicable civil and criminal laws, the department said.
Any violations would be reported to the competent district authorities for further appropriate administrative action, the Range Forest Officer said, in the release.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / August 25th, 2026
