Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 111th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on June 30, highlighted the unique essence and significance of Araku coffee from Andhra Pradesh. He fondly recalled a moment shared over coffee with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu during a visit to Visakhapatnam, even sharing a photo from the meeting with then-state governor ESL Narasimhan.
PM Modi emphasized the appeal of Araku coffee, stating, “India boasts numerous products that enjoy global demand, and it fills us with pride to witness our local products gaining international acclaim. One such product is Araku coffee, celebrated for its robust flavor and captivating aroma, cultivated extensively in the Alluri Sita Ram Raju district of Andhra Pradesh. Approximately 1.5 lakh tribal families are involved in its cultivation. I vividly recall enjoying this coffee with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Garu in Visakhapatnam. Araku coffee has received numerous global accolades and was well-received at the G20 Summit held in Delhi.”
Regarding cultivation, PM Modi highlighted the pivotal role of the Girijan cooperative in empowering local farmers and enhancing their income through Araku coffee. He noted, “Around 1.5 lakh tribal families participate in cultivating Araku coffee, with the Girijan cooperative pivotal in their success. By uniting local farmers and encouraging the cultivation of Araku coffee, the cooperative has significantly elevated their income.”
Araku coffee, known for its distinctive qualities, received its Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019. This tag underscores its origin from specific geographical areas renowned for unique characteristics. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal echoed PM Modi’s sentiments on social media, stating, “Truly unparalleled! Andhra Pradesh’s GI-tagged Araku coffee empowers tribals and enhances India’s global brand.”
Araku Valley Arabica coffee thrives in the hilly terrains of Visakhapatnam district in Andhra Pradesh and parts of Odisha, grown at elevations between 900-1100 meters above sea level. Tribal communities cultivate this coffee using organic methods, emphasizing practices like organic manures, green manuring, and organic pest management.