Visakhapatnam — Araku Coffee, cultivated in the lush valleys of Andhra Pradesh by tribal farmers under the Girijan Cooperative Corporation (GCC), has been honored with the Changemaker of the Year 2025 Award in the Financial Transformation category. The award was presented in Mumbai to GCC Vice Chairperson and Managing Director Kalpana Kumari by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, recognizing the initiative’s role in reshaping rural livelihoods through sustainable agriculture.
The recognition highlights how Araku Coffee has become more than a product—it is a movement that empowers thousands of tribal farmers across Chintapalli and GK Veedhi mandals. By adopting organic farming methods, securing Geographical Indication (GI) certification, and building global market access, the cooperative has ensured stable incomes for communities that were once marginalized.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu praised the achievement, calling it “wonderful coffee news” and commending tribal farmers for their resilience and innovation. He reiterated his vision to elevate Araku Coffee into a global brand, positioning it as a symbol of India’s sustainable agriculture and inclusive growth.
The award also underscores the growing importance of ethical supply chains in the global coffee industry. With consumers increasingly demanding transparency and sustainability, Araku Coffee’s model—rooted in community ownership and ecological stewardship—offers a blueprint for other regions in Asia and beyond.
Observers note that the recognition is not only a milestone for Andhra Pradesh but also a signal to Southeast Asia. Across ASEAN, smallholder farmers face similar challenges of market access, climate resilience, and financial stability. Araku Coffee’s success story demonstrates how cooperative models and government support can transform rural economies.
Looking ahead, Araku Coffee aims to expand its international footprint while deepening its commitment to regenerative farming. Its recognition as Changemaker of the Year 2025 is both a celebration of tribal farmers’ achievements and a call to action for regional collaboration in building sustainable agricultural futures.
