Tribal Village in Odisha Thrives with Coffee Farming and Ecotourism Initiative
Bengaluru, November 26, 2024 — A groundbreaking initiative is bringing sustainable economic growth and environmental preservation to the tribal village of Punjishil in Odisha’s Koraput district. Located 500 kilometers from Bhubaneshwar, Punjishil is home to 45 Paroja tribal families who are now cultivating coffee and hosting ecotourism activities under Project Unnati Coffee.
This project, led by ISWAR (Integrated Social Welfare and Research Centre) in collaboration with Coca-Cola India, has helped villagers create a steady income while protecting the area’s biodiversity. The initiative combines sustainable coffee farming with ecotourism, providing training, resources, and opportunities to the community.
Villagers have been taught to grow coffee sustainably on the biodiverse land around their homes. Young tribals have been trained as guides, leading visitors through coffee plantations and forest trails. The families also offer authentic tribal meals and overnight stays, allowing tourists to experience their culture while generating income for the village.
“Project Unnati Coffee has not only improved livelihoods but also inspired the community to embrace sustainable practices,” said Piyush Ranjan Mishra, CEO of ISWAR. “By integrating coffee farming with ecotourism, we’re strengthening the Farmers Producer Organization, improving productivity, and creating strong market connections. This model benefits not only farmers but the entire local economy.”
A key feature of the initiative is its emphasis on empowering women. Women in Punjishil manage key roles in coffee production, food services, and tourism operations. Their participation has led to better health, nutrition, and education for their families. Children who previously dropped out of school to support their families are now attending classes regularly, envisioning brighter futures.
“For years, we struggled with low yields from our coffee plants,” said Tulabati Badanayak, a tribal farmer. “After training, our yield has improved significantly, and we’re hopeful for a good income this season. We even plan to plant coffee on all the hillocks next year.”
Project Unnati Coffee offers a promising model for combining sustainable agriculture and ecotourism to uplift tribal communities. It demonstrates how local development can coexist with conservation, setting an example for other regions across India.
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