Mangaluru: Encouraging coffee cultivation alongside arecanut farming can boost farmer confidence and economic resilience, said Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta. He was speaking at the inauguration of the KaapiCo workshop held at the Sullia CA Bank hall on Monday.
Addressing yellow leaf disease impact
The MP highlighted that yellow leaf disease has severely impacted arecanut plantations across several villages, with crops in 10 villages of Sullia taluk destroyed. This has created uncertainty among farmers who heavily rely on arecanut as their primary source of income.
“The people of the district are self-reliant and self-respecting. They need reassurance in times of distress. Coffee is not an alternative crop to arecanut, but it can be cultivated alongside it,” he said.
Chowta emphasised the need for scientific methods and research to support farmers. “I joined this initiative because I respect the land’s identity. Science and technology must be used to support farmers,” he added.
Intercropping as a solution
The KaapiCo workshop was conceived as an initiative to encourage intercropping coffee with arecanut to provide economic security to growers. The workshop aims to identify profitable crops and explore new opportunities in coffee cultivation while retaining the cultural significance of arecanut.
Chowta also clarified that arecanut should not be stigmatised. “Arecanut is not carcinogenic; it is part of our culture. However, research is required on yellow leaf disease and leaf spot disease to develop effective treatments,” he said.
Government engagement and future plans
The MP stated that he has been in continuous discussions with the Union agriculture and horticulture ministers regarding the crisis. Detailed information on the affected areas has already been submitted to the central government, and a visit by the Union agriculture minister to the disease-hit regions has been assured.
Chowta advised farmers to proceed cautiously before shifting to coffee cultivation. “Soil, climate, temperature, water availability, and fertiliser requirements must be studied before planting. Research first, then cultivate. Belthangady, Kadaba, Puttur, and Sullia taluks must also be recognised by the Coffee Board for proper guidance,” he said.
Coffee Board’s vision for the future
Coffee Board of India chairman Dinesh MJ, who also addressed the workshop, stressed the importance of reviving coffee cultivation in Dakshina Kannada. “Young people must take an interest in farming. Coffee grown in the Malnad region was once exported through Mangaluru. Now is the time to strengthen that legacy,” he said.
Dinesh highlighted India’s production target: “By 2047, the country must achieve 7 lakh tonnes of coffee production. However, the sector faces challenges, especially labour shortages. Farmers must adopt advanced technology and scientific techniques to ensure sustainable yields,” he added.
A roadmap for sustainable agriculture
The KaapiCo initiative signifies a proactive step towards diversifying agriculture and reducing dependence on a single crop. By integrating coffee cultivation, farmers stand to gain additional income and stability while preserving the heritage of arecanut farming.
The workshop concluded with a call for collective efforts from farmers, government bodies, and research institutions to ensure a resilient agricultural ecosystem in Dakshina Kannada.