Kurma Rao M Steps in as Coffee Board Secretary: What It Means for India’s Coffee Industry

Kurma Rao M, an IAS officer from Karnataka’s 2011 batch, has taken over as Secretary of the Coffee Board in Bengaluru. His appointment, confirmed by the Department of Personnel and Training on May 30, puts him in a key position to oversee India’s coffee industry at a time of growth and global competition.

 

What’s Happening?

 

- Rao is stepping into the role for five years, bringing government expertise to the industry’s policy-making.

- He’ll be handling issues like farmer welfare, trade policies, and India’s place in the international coffee market.

- His leadership could mean new support programs for growers, better trade deals, and a push for sustainability in coffee production.

 

Why This Matters?

 

India is a major coffee exporter, and the Coffee Board plays a crucial role in shaping its future. With demand rising globally and challenges like pricing and climate affecting production, Rao’s approach will be closely watched by industry players and farmers alike. His decisions could impact everything from export strategies to domestic consumption trends.

 

All eyes are now on how he navigates his tenure. Will his leadership bring meaningful changes? The coffee industry is waiting to see.

 

Sources: Legend Officers, DoPT Circulars.