Odisha Unveils Ambitious Coffee Plantation Scheme for Sustainable Livelihoods

Bhubaneswar: In a move to diversify and boost agricultural income while promoting sustainable practices, coffee cultivation is set to become a major commercial crop in Odisha. The state, blessed with conducive agro-climatic conditions, sees coffee as a lucrative alternative to traditional cropping methods, particularly in tribal areas.

The “Coffee Plantation for Sustainable Livelihoods (CPSL)” scheme will be rolled out in six districts—Koraput, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Keonjhar, and Gajapati. The plan aims to expand the existing state coffee area from 10,000 acres to 100,000 acres over the next decade. The scheme places a special emphasis on the involvement of Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) in nurturing coffee nurseries, with over 50,000 farming families expected to benefit from the initiative.

The State Cabinet has granted approval for the scheme’s implementation, allocating an estimated expenditure of Rs. 1144.00 Crores from 2022-23 to 2026-27. Of this, Rs. 567.00 Crores will be covered by the State Plan, and Rs. 577.00 Crores will be sourced through convergence with other schemes. Beyond the initial five years, the scheme will incorporate aspects of value addition and marketing.

The Directorate of Soil Conservation and Watershed Development under the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department will oversee the implementation of the CPSL scheme. During the execution phase, the Directorate will collaborate with quality resource organizations such as the Coffee Board and others to enhance productivity, build capacity, develop infrastructure, and establish the coffee brand.

This ambitious initiative aims not only to contribute significantly to the financial well-being of farmers but also to play a crucial role in revitalizing ecosystems, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices.