Kodagu holds immense potential for agri-tourism, which can serve as an additional income source for farmers while offering enriching experiences to visitors, said banking professional, personality development trainer, and career guide R.K. Balachandra.
He delivered a lecture on “Agri-tourism in Kodagu – Many Dimensions” at the ‘Negila Yogi’ Award presentation programme organised by the Kushalnagar Taluk unit of the Kodagu Journalists Association at Gowda Samaj, Kushalnagar.
Balachandra noted that Kodagu has approximately 1.05 lakh hectares under coffee cultivation, contributing nearly 30 percent of India’s total coffee production. However, challenges such as price fluctuations, climate change, labour shortages, wildlife conflict, and the devastating floods and landslides of 2018 have adversely impacted farmers.
He pointed out that due to these difficulties, many youths are migrating to Bengaluru, with some even selling coffee rather than cultivating it. However, he emphasized that agri-tourism could reverse this trend by attracting urban populations to rural areas.
Describing agri-tourism as a philosophical concept, he explained that it involves engaging tourists in agricultural activities while generating additional income for farmers. Activities such as plantation visits, harvesting participation, organic farming training, biodiversity exploration, rural cuisine experiences, and exposure to local culture and traditions are integral to this model.
Addressing labour shortages, he suggested that agri-tourism could provide an innovative solution, as tourists voluntarily participate in farm work while paying for the experience. He also noted its potential in raising awareness about climate change.
Call for Support Price for Horticultural Crops
Kodagu Patrika Bhavan Trust President M.P. Keshav Kamath emphasized the indispensable role of farmers, stating that a nation cannot exist without them. He urged governments to support farmers and ensure fair pricing for their produce.
He expressed concern over rural depopulation due to youth migration and encouraged the younger generation to leverage modern technology for agricultural development.
Positive Outcomes Post-COVID
Kodagu Journalists Association President Anil H.T. observed that one positive outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic was the renewed interest of youth in agriculture after returning to their villages. He expressed optimism that many continue to engage in farming activities.
He noted that states like Kerala have successfully prioritized agri-tourism and that Kodagu is well-suited for similar initiatives.
Anil also highlighted challenges faced by farmers due to wildlife, labour shortages, and regulatory issues, urging clarity in the implementation of the RFECI Act and greater autonomy for farmers in decision-making.
Other Speakers and Contributions
Businessman S.G. Srinivas emphasized the importance of agriculture as a foundational sector and called for greater governmental support.
Donor Mandepanda Chimma Uthappa announced a contribution of ?25,000 towards the Negila Yogi Endowment Award. Businessman M.S. Ranjith was also present.
The programme was presided over by Taluk Journalists Association President B.C. Dinesh. Treasurer K.S. Anil Kumar welcomed the gathering, and Vice-President Naveen Chinnappa delivered the vote of thanks.
Negila Yogi Awardees
The awards were presented to:
Progressive farmer Pattemane P. Udayakumar (Suntikoppa)
Shankaranarayana (Mallur) for agriculture and dairy farming
Progressive woman farmer Bhavani M.G. Kumaraswamy (Manajur)
Integrated farmer Nangaru Jaga (Balugoduvi)
A condolence was observed for Gowda community leader and senior writer Anantha Rajegowda on the occasion.
