Kelachandra Coffee, India’s largest privately held coffee plantation company, has appointed Dr. P Kurian Raphael as its novel head of research and development. Photo: Kelachandra Coffee
Kelachandra Coffee, India’s largest privately held coffee plantation company, has appointed Dr. P. Kurian Raphael as its novel Director of Research and Development.
Previously, Raphael led the R&D team at Tata Coffee.
“I am excited to join Kelachandra Coffee and work with a passionate team committed to pioneering Indian coffee research and ethically sourcing sustainable coffee,” says Raphael.
“I look forward to using my experience in regenerative agriculture to contribute to our shared goals of innovation and net zero coffee production.”
Raphael holds a Ph.D. in Zoology (Entomology) from Calicut University, Kerala, India. He also holds a postdoctoral fellowship from the British Natural History Museum, London, UK.
He has over 31 years of experience in plantation farming, including 25 years as a Senior Scientist with the Coffee Board of India. His contributions to coffee research include the publication of 37 research papers in national and international journals, a chapter contribution to the Global Scientist Book and contributions to renowned research guides such as Principal Investigator.
According to a statement from Kelachandra Coffee, Raphael’s role at the company will include several key functions, including research into shortening the gestation period of plants from the current five years to two or three years, which will allow for increased yields and productivity.
He will also oversee the improvement of pepper production and defense mechanisms, the improvement of beekeeping and honey production, and the production of exotic fruits in spaces designated for this purpose.
Additionally, he will work to strengthen sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. P. Kurian Raphael to Kelachandra Coffee. His extensive experience and groundbreaking approach to sustainable agriculture will be invaluable as we continue to push the boundaries of coffee research and development,” says Kelachandra Coffee Managing Director Rana George.
“Dr. Raphael’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly guide our commitment to excellence and sustainability. He will assist us put India on the global coffee map.”
Kelachandra Coffee entered the coffee plantation business in 1995 and now grows specialty coffee on over 6,000 acres across 15 estates in Karnataka and Kerala, India. The company grows 2,000 tons of coffee per year, including 30 tons of specialty coffee, and has export partners in Japan, Denmark, Norway and Australia.
