From struggle to sustainability
Uplifting tribal coffee growers in Koraput
As Professor in Sustainable Production and Consumption at ARU, and director of our Centre for Intelligent Supply Chains, Manoj Dora's work focuses on sustainable supply chains and the circular economy.
By optimising supply chains, Manoj aimed to improve the livelihoods of coffee-growers in India.
Background and motivation
Professor Manoj Dora's research focuses on empowering tribal coffee growers in Koraput, Odisha, India. This region, known for its rich biodiversity and unique agro-climatic conditions, presents an opportunity to integrate sustainable practices while improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers. The primary goal of this project is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the coffee supply chain in Koraput.
Tribal coffee growers in Koraput face several challenges, including low productivity, lack of market access, and limited value addition. These issues result in minimal profits for the farmers. The research aims to address these gaps by optimising the supply chain and enhancing economic benefits for the farmers.
Research process
The study employs a comprehensive methodology involving stakeholder engagement, interviews, field visits, and participatory rural appraisals to capture farmer perspectives. The key stages of the research include:
- Baseline study: mapping the current coffee value chain
- Stakeholder engagement: conducting interviews with farmers, traders, cooperatives, and government agencies
- Process analysis: identifying bottlenecks in production, processing, and marketing
- Solution design: developing training interventions for improved supply chain efficiency and farmer empowerment
- Implementation planning: collaborating with local organisations to test training modules.
The project faced several challenges, such as resistance from farmers and data availability issues. These were addressed through community meetings, trust-building exercises, and using mixed-method approaches to triangulate data. Additionally, potential buyers and certification bodies were engaged to explore premium pricing models.
"Tribal coffee growers in Koraput face several challenges, including low productivity, lack of market access, and limited value addition. These issues result in minimal profits for the farmers."
Findings and impact
The research uncovered inefficiencies in post-harvest processing, storage, and handling practices, leading to significant losses in coffee quality and value. Farmers were largely dependent on middlemen, limiting their direct market access and reducing their earnings. However, the study found that training, obtaining certifications such as organic, Fairtrade etc, and market access could significantly boost farmers' incomes by allowing them to sell at premium prices in niche markets.
By taking a systemic approach, the study outlines practical ways to optimise the tribal coffee supply chain using lean and sustainable methods. It also emphasises that collaboration between farmers, cooperatives, policymakers, and buyers is essential to creating a more efficient and profitable agri-value chain.
The findings suggest several potential applications, including:
- implementing localised processing units to retain value within the community
- using traceability tools for supply chain transparency
- establishing direct trade partnerships with ethical coffee brands.
"Training, certifications such as Fairtrade, and [direct] market access could significantly boost farmers' incomes by allowing them to sell at premium prices in niche markets."
Collaboration
Key collaborators in this research include the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), Department of Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment, Government of Odisha, India and the Coffee Board, TATA coffee which play critical roles in developing the supply chain. Local cooperatives and NGOs also facilitate farmer engagement and the implementation of best practices.
Future directions
The next steps for the project involve piloting sustainable coffee processing techniques, exploring premium market linkages for tribal coffee through certifications, and developing capacity-building programs for farmers on quality improvement and business skills.
Future research will explore the carbon removal benefits of tribal coffee agroforestry models and how AI-based predictive analytics can improve yield forecasting for smallholder coffee farmers.
The long-term vision for this project is to empower tribal farmers through economic resilience and self-sufficiency. The goal is to position Koraput coffee as a sustainable and premium global brand.
