Bengaluru: Kelachandra Coffee has announced Dr. P Kurian Raphael as the new Head of Research and Development, an experienced professional from Tata Coffee Ltd. with expertise in plantation crops, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy.
Dr. Raphael, a Zoology Ph.D. from Calicut University with a Postdoctoral fellowship from the British Natural History Museum, brings 31 years of experience in plantation crops, notably with 25 years at the Coffee Board of India. He is esteemed for his research in various Indian coffee regions, having published 37 research papers and one chapter in the Global Scientist Book, and serving as a Principal Investigator in significant projects.
At Kelachandra Coffee, Dr. Raphael’s work will cover the following key functions:
- Reducing the gestation period of plants to 2-3 years from the current 5 years. This will benefit the yield and productivity of Kelachandra Coffee produce.
- Overseeing improvements in the production and inducing defense mechanisms for pepper production; improving beekeeping maintenance and honey production the estates; and, overseeing the production of exotic fruits in dedicated spaces.
- Strengthening sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices to uphold Kelachandra’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Dr. Raphael’s exceptional contributions in sustainable agriculture, pest management, and innovation are globally acknowledged. His commitment to excellence and sustainability resonates with Kelachandra Coffee’s core values. At Tata Coffee, he was honored with the Annual Excellence Award in 2022 and 2023 for his work in sustainable agriculture.
In his past position at Tata Coffee, Dr. Raphael excelled in leading the Research and Development department, focusing on coffee and pepper. He gained recognition for his leadership and dedication to advancing agricultural research and sustainability.
Rana George, Managing Director at Kelachandra Coffee said, “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. P Kurian Raphael to Kelachandra Coffee. His extensive experience and innovative approach to sustainable agriculture will be invaluable as we continue to push the boundaries of coffee research and development. Dr. Raphael’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly drive our commitment to excellence and sustainability forward. It will help us put India firmly on the global coffee map.”
Dr. Raphael is eager to join the talented team at Kelachandra Coffee and to contribute to the company’s goals of achieving excellence and sustainability in coffee research and development. “I am excited to join Kelachandra Coffee and work alongside a passionate team dedicated to pioneering advancements in Indian coffee research and Ethically-sourced Sustainable Coffee (ESC). I look forward to leveraging my experience in regenerative agriculture to contribute to our shared goals of innovation and net zero coffee production.”
Dr. Raphael’s hobbies include badminton, hockey, gardening, driving, dog breeding, and adventure activities like hiking and trekking. He also adjudicates at Karpakam University Coimbatore, Mahatma Gandhi University Kerala, and Mahatma Gandhi University Kanpur.
Dr. Raphael’s office will be located at Kelachandra’s estate in Chandrapore.
