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Chikhaldhara: Maharashtra's Only Coffee-Producing Region in Vidarbha Hills

Maharashtra's Only Coffee-Producing Region in Vidarbha Hills
Maharashtra's Only Coffee-Producing Region in Vidarbha Hills

In the Satpura hills of Vidarbha, a small hill station produces what many consider Maharashtra's best-kept secret. Chikhaldhara coffee, grown in Amravati district, remains the state's only coffee-producing region, a distinction that sets it apart from the rest of Maharashtra's agricultural landscape.


The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans mingles with the cool mountain air at altitudes between 700 and 1,100 metres, where local farmers continue a cultivation tradition that began during British colonial rule.


This unique position has made Chikhaldhara a focal point for coffee enthusiasts seeking something different from the established southern Indian coffee varieties. The region's coffee story reflects both historical significance and contemporary struggles, as farmers work to maintain production standards whilst facing mounting environmental and economic pressures.


Colonial Origins and Historical Development of Chikhaldhara Coffee


The introduction of coffee cultivation to Chikhaldhara traces back to the 19th century, though historical accounts present conflicting timelines about its precise origins. According to KorkuCoffee, a local brand, the first coffee plantation was established in 1840 by the Deccan Coffee and Land Agency, a British company that employed local labour to cultivate coffee in the region. This early venture reportedly made Chikhaldhara one of India's largest coffee-producing regions by the mid-19th century, with high-quality coffee beans finding their way to European markets.


However, Mid-Day's 2024 reporting suggests a different timeline, indicating that coffee was first planted in the 1860s by British officer James Mulheran, who brought coffee plants from Kerala to his bungalow in Chikhaldhara.

This effort was later expanded between 1897 and 1898 by Father Thevnet of the Roman Catholic Mission, who saw coffee cultivation as a means to generate employment for the local community. By 1910, the plantation had grown significantly, spanning around 100 acres.


The discrepancy in dates suggests that early attempts in the 1840s may have been experimental or less sustained, with more structured coffee cultivation taking root later. The British were particularly drawn to Chikhaldhara's climate, which reminded them of their homeland.

Captain Robinson of the Hyderabad Regiment, who visited in 1823, noted the lush green landscapes and cool temperatures, even proposing Chikhaldhara as a potential seat for the Government of India.


In the early 20th century, the Indian government established coffee research stations in Chikhaldhara to enhance bean quality and yield. These stations introduced new coffee varieties and cultivation techniques, helping to solidify the region's reputation as a coffee producer.


Today, coffee in Chikhaldhara is primarily grown by small farmers using traditional methods, with one larger plantation continuing the work of the early efforts.



Distinctive Characteristics and Cultivation Methods of Chikhaldhara Coffee


Chikhaldhara coffee stands out for its distinct taste and aroma, shaped by the region's unique terroir in the Satpura hills of Vidarbha. The cool, damp climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for producing high-quality coffee beans. The region cultivates both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties, each offering different flavour profiles to suit varied preferences.


Arabica coffee beans from Chikhaldhara are known for their smooth texture, low acidity, and delicate notes of citrus and fruit, appealing to those who prefer a milder brew.

Robusta coffee, conversely, offers robust, earthy, and intense flavours, catering to those who enjoy a stronger coffee. A standout feature is the coffee's rich umami flavour, adding a savoury depth that sets it apart from other Indian coffee varieties.


The coffee cultivation process further enhances its uniqueness. Coffee plants are grown under a canopy of shade trees, which protect them from direct sunlight and contribute to soil fertility by preventing erosion. Farmers often intercrop coffee with pepper and cardamom, supporting biodiversity and providing additional income sources.


The coffee cherries are hand-picked at peak ripeness, ensuring only the best beans are selected.


Processing involves either wet or dry methods, followed by sun-drying on raised beds, which enhances the coffee's flavour. Local brands like KorkuCoffee emphasise small-batch roasting to preserve these qualities, with their signature dark roast Robusta described as bold and lingering.


Another retailer, Turf to Table, highlights the coffee's smooth texture and unique aroma, which "awakens the senses".


These characteristics have earned Chikhaldhara coffee recognition among enthusiasts, though it remains less known compared to southern Indian coffee varieties. The traditional farming methods employed by local farmers align well with the rising demand for organic and sustainable coffee, offering a competitive edge in niche markets.


Climate Threats and Production Challenges in Vidarbha Coffee Growing


Coffee production in Chikhaldhara faces significant hurdles, largely due to its location in Vidarbha, a region grappling with climate variability. Irregular rainfall and frequent droughts, exacerbated by climate change, threaten coffee yields and quality.


A 2016 report by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development noted that Vidarbha faces high climate change risks, with potential financial damages if unaddressed.


Coffee plants, which require consistent moisture, are particularly vulnerable to these conditions, impacting both small farmers and the larger plantation.

Limited knowledge of advanced processing techniques presents another obstacle for coffee farmers. While traditional methods preserve the coffee's unique flavours, they often fall short of the standards required for the specialty coffee market. Sunil Jambekar, manager of Chikhaldhara's main plantation, highlighted the growing demand for green coffee beans, particularly for health benefits like weight loss, but noted that processing limitations hinder specialty coffee production.


The region's remote location further complicates matters, with inadequate infrastructure making it difficult to transport coffee to broader markets. This increases costs and reduces profitability for coffee farmers who already operate on thin margins. The challenge of connecting with larger markets remains a persistent barrier to growth.

Environmental sustainability concerns also affect coffee production.


The expansion of coffee plantations has led to deforestation and biodiversity loss, threatening the region's rich wildlife, including tigers and leopards in the nearby Melghat Tiger Reserve.


Efforts to adopt sustainable practices, such as organic farming and rainwater harvesting, are underway but require further investment to be effective.

Labour shortages and rising input costs, common in Vidarbha's agricultural sector, add to the challenges faced by coffee farmers. These factors combine to create a complex web of difficulties that small-scale producers must navigate whilst maintaining their livelihoods.


Market Opportunities and Future Prospects for Chikhaldhara Coffee

Market Opportunities and Future Prospects for Chikhaldhara Coffee
Market Opportunities and Future Prospects for Chikhaldhara Coffee

Despite the challenges, Chikhaldhara coffee has seen growing interest, both domestically and internationally. Local brands like KorkuCoffee and Turf to Table are promoting the region's coffee beans, emphasising their organic and handcrafted qualities. KorkuCoffee sources beans from small farmers and roasts them in small batches to highlight their unique flavours.


The potential for ecotourism presents an opportunity for additional revenue streams. Visitors can tour coffee plantations, learn about coffee production, and sample the local brew, providing supplementary income for farmers.


Plantation tours are popular among coffee lovers and nature enthusiasts, enhancing Chikhaldhara's appeal as a destination.

However, realising this potential requires investment in processing facilities to improve quality and consistency, as well as better transportation infrastructure to connect with larger markets. Government initiatives aimed at supporting Vidarbha's agriculture, such as irrigation subsidies and crop insurance, could indirectly benefit coffee farmers by mitigating climate risks.


Local cooperatives are working to raise awareness about Chikhaldhara coffee, fostering community-driven marketing efforts. These grassroots initiatives help build brand recognition and create direct connections between farmers and consumers.


By addressing processing limitations and infrastructure challenges, Chikhaldhara has the opportunity to establish itself as a prominent player in India's coffee industry.

The region's traditional farming methods and unique terroir position it well for the growing specialty coffee market.

As consumer preferences shift towards sustainable and traceable products, Chikhaldhara's small-scale, environmentally conscious approach could prove advantageous. The challenge lies in scaling up production whilst maintaining quality and sustainability standards.

Chikhaldhara's position as Maharashtra's sole coffee producer represents both opportunity and responsibility. The region's farmers continue to craft distinctive brews that reflect their unique environment and traditional methods.


As they navigate climate uncertainties and market demands, their commitment to quality and sustainability offers hope for the future. The success of Chikhaldhara coffee depends on finding the right balance between preserving traditional practices and adapting to modern market requirements, ensuring that this hidden gem continues to thrive in India's diverse coffee landscape.


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About the Author

The NewsDirt is a trusted source for authentic, ground-level journalism, highlighting the daily struggles, public issues, history, and local stories from Vidarbha’s cities, towns, and villages. Committed to amplifying voices often ignored by mainstream media, we bring you reliable, factual, and impactful reporting from Vidarbha’s grassroots.

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