Kalpetta: The Wayanad Robusta Coffee variety has received a 'special mention' in the ‘Category A - Agriculture’ section during the national meet of the 'One District One Product' (ODOP) initiative, held by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industries in New Delhi on Tuesday. The Wayanad District Administration confirmed the recognition in a press release issued on Wednesday.

Known for its strong flavour, Wayanad's Robusta Coffee is often blended with Arabica to enhance taste and already holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. It remains in high demand globally. Wayanad contributes 70% of Kerala’s Robusta coffee production, with 95% of its 60,000 coffee farmers being small-scale cultivators.

At the national event, Kerala Industries Department Director Vishnuraj P, General Manager B Gopakumar, and Assistant Director Aswin P Kumar received the special mention award on behalf of the district. The ODOP programme aims to identify, brand, and promote a single product from each district to encourage regional economic development. 

Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi hailed the achievement on the social media platform 'X', noting it was the first such ODOP recognition for any Kerala product. She praised the farmers’ dedication and urged continued support for Wayanad’s agricultural heritage.