Journal Press India^®

Author Details ( * ) denotes Corresponding author

Indian agriculture at present is facing many challenges. In this regard, Blockchain technology (BCT) can be great solution in strengthening the value chain of agriculture sector. BCT allows the immediate transferring  of digital assets and reduces or eliminates the need for intermediaries in value chain. India being the third-largest producer of coffee in Asia, the country accounts for 3.30 per cent (2017-18) of the world coffee production. At present, the Indian coffee industry is facing many issues in value chain management of coffee which need to be addressed. In this regard, the Coffee Board of India has launched a pilot Blockchain based e-marketplace in order to integrate coffee farmers with markets. This paper discusses the present scenario of Indian coffee industry and issues faced in effective coffee value chain management. The paper throws light on the importance and applications of BCT in coffee industry. It addresses the role of BCT in strengthening price chain that allows trustworthy cradle and traceability from farmer to shopper. While BCT is intended to improve the price and value chain but in the case of coffee industry in India, many dimensions of problems facing coffee industry are not addressed. The single purpose that BCT serves is improving branding which is not relevant for 70% of the market. It may benefit a small segment of upper end of the market which is the branded segment.

Keywords

Agriculture; Blockchain Technology; Coffee industry; India.

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