Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall and extended dry spells are raising concerns about the impact of climate change on coffee productivity. Graphics by The Kodagu Express for representational purposes only. Chikkamagaluru: Intensifying El Niño conditions and prolonged heat stress could deal a major blow to Karnataka’s coffee plantations, with production in the 2026-27 crop year projected to decline by 15–20%, the Karnataka Planters’ Association (KPA) has warned. Rising te

A native of Kodagu, Lokesh served as an India Based Security Assistant (IBSA) at the embassy from March 10, 2023, to March 10, 2026. Bengaluru: Head Constable HM Lokesh, popularly known as ‘BCPman’ (Bengaluru City Police man), has received letters of appreciation from India’s Ambassador to Mexico, Dr Pankaj Sharma, recognising his service at the Indian Embassy in Mexico City over three consecutive years. A native of Kodagu, Lokesh served as an India Based Security Assistant (

Karnataka Planters Association, Chairman, Salman Baseer. Photo: Special Arrangement Bengaluru: Karnataka’s coffee-growing area has remained unchanged for nearly two decades despite the State contributing more than 70% of India’s total coffee production, with restrictive land conversion regulations, inadequate financial support and climate-related challenges limiting the sector’s growth, according to Karnataka Planters Association (KPA) Chairman M. Salman Baseer. Karnataka pro