Assam Launches Training Program and Seed Distribution to Boost Coffee Cultivation in Karbi Anglong

DIPHU: A two-day training program for coffee farmers began on Thursday at the Regional Coffee Research Station (RCRS), Diphu in Assam's Karbi Anglong. Coffee seeds for the 2024-2025 financial year were also distributed. The training is designed to help new farmers learn important skills for growing coffee.

According to Dr. Atiqur Rahman Bora, Deputy Director of Research at RCRS, there were previously no coffee growers in Karbi Anglong. However, following an awareness program held in October last year, 31 individuals have come forward to start coffee plantations in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong. These individuals have already completed nursery training and will now establish coffee nurseries in their respective locations, with planting scheduled for July this year.

The distribution of coffee seeds to the new growers took place on Thursday, following the submission of payments. Dr. Bora encouraged more people from Karbi Anglong to explore coffee cultivation, highlighting the significant opportunities in the sector.

On January 29, 15 officers from the Soil Conservation Department of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council were sent to RCRS, Diphu, for training on coffee. The training taught them the latest ways to grow, process, and brew coffee, with the goal of restoring coffee plantations in the area.

It is noteworthy that coffee cultivation in Assam was initially introduced by the Soil Conservation Department in the 1980s, covering over 100 hectares. However, due to a lack of funds and low market prices, coffee plantations in the region declined over the years. Recently, renewed awareness initiatives have been undertaken to highlight the current market potential and the prospects for rejuvenating coffee cultivation in Karbi Anglong.

ALSO READ: Assam To Launch WhatsApp Helpline To Combat Medicine Shortages in Government Hospitals

ALSO WATCH: