Araku Coffee : Significance
The Prime Minister praised the unique flavour and significance of Araku Coffee of Andhra Pradesh during his recent episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio programme.
- Araku Coffee is grown in the Araku Valley in Alluri SitaRam Raju district of Andhra Pradesh, located in the Eastern Ghats.
- This coffee has a distinct flavour with notes of chocolate, caramel, and subtle fruity acidity.
- It is grown in a diverse agroforestry system, primarily cultivated using organic farming methods.
- It is grown by tribal farmers and cooperatives and helps in promoting sustainable livelihoods and community empowerment.
- Araku Coffee has received international awards, including the “Best Robusta” at the Café de Colombia Competition.
- It received a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag in 2019 for unique qualities.
- Other Indian coffees that received GI Tag include Coorg Arabica, Wayanad Robusta, Chikmagalur Arabica, Bababudangiris Arabica from Karnataka, and Monsooned Malabar Robusta from Kerala.
- Top 3 Producers of Coffee: Brazil, Vietnam and Columbia. India is the 6th largest producer of Coffee in the World.