MP: CM Mohan Yadav Tells How Coffee Cultivation Will Become a New Growth Driver at Kurku in Betul
Madhya Pradesh CM Dr. Mohan Yadav reviewed the history, geographical features and cultivation practices of the Kukru Coffee Estate during his visit to Kurku in Betul on Sunday. He held discussions with representatives of L-Von Company, which is engaged in coffee processing, on expanding coffee cultivation, processing and marketing. CM noted that the estate, established in 1944 by British planter Florence Hendricks, spans nearly 40 hectares and remains an important natural and agricultural heritage site of the region.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Kukru and its surrounding forest region hold immense potential for coffee cultivation. He encouraged farmers to cultivate coffee alongside fruit-bearing trees such as mango to enhance their incomes.
'Kukru Natural' Brand to Promote Local Produce
Dr. Yadav said Kurku region is renowned not only for its premium coffee but also for Kodo-Kutki millet, amla, honey, harra, baheda, safed musli, bhilwa and other forest produce. Under the 'Kukru Natural' brand, processing units will be established with the support of women's Self-Help Groups and the Forest Department. Dedicated retail outlets will also be set up in urban centres to market these products.
Focus on Dairy Development and Coffee Cultivation
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav announced that the Forest Department will establish retail outlets for rabri, mawa, curd and other dairy products to harness the region's vast dairy potential. Local youth will receive training in tourist guiding, driving and hotel management through the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).
A Rs 1-crore project will also be launched to promote the cultivation, processing and production of Robusta and Arabica coffee. The Coffee Board and Forest Department will provide technical assistance to farmers to expand coffee cultivation.
CM Ploughs a Field, Encourages Farmers
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav visited the farm of Sahadev Gayani, where he personally ploughed the field and sowed maize. Interacting with the farmer, who owns nearly five acres of land, the he discussed Kharif sowing, agricultural practices and crop marketing.
Dr. Yadav's warm and informal interaction with farmers drew widespread appreciation. He described agriculture as the foundation of Madhya Pradesh's prosperity, while acknowledging the hard work of the State's farmers. The Chief Minister also encouraged 21-year-old Hemant Gayani, who demonstrated the traditional art of stick-spinning (lathi). Impressed by his skill, CM himself performed the traditional art to motivate the youth.
Interaction with Villagers
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav appreciated the efforts of women Self-Help Groups and encouraged them to continue moving towards self-reliance. Smt. Neeta Dhadse of the Lakshmi Self-Help Group said that her work as an Agriculture Sakhi, promoting organic farming, had significantly improved her family's income through support received under the National Rural Livelihood Mission.
Smt. Maina Damje shared that joining the Self-Help Group had enabled her to expand her traditional business of making mawa and rabri. Smt. Archana Vinod of Khamla village said that her Cluster Level Federation (CLF) had received a loan of ₹72 lakh, enabling women to undertake agriculture, dairy and allied livelihood activities.