About the Association
The apex voice of Karnataka's planters since 1958
A non-profit representative body dedicated to safeguarding the interests of plantation growers while promoting sustainable agriculture, innovation and the long-term growth of the industry.
The estates of the Western Ghats
Our Story
Rooted in the land, growing with our members
The Karnataka Planters' Association was founded in 1958 by a group of growers who recognised that a shared voice would serve the planting community far better than isolated effort. From those early meetings grew an institution that has stood with its members through every challenge.
Across the decades KPA has advocated on labour, taxation and commercial matters, carrying the concerns of estates large and small to policymakers and industry alike always guided by the interests of those who work the land.
Today the Association continues that mission, blending the wisdom of tradition with the demands of a modern, sustainable and globally connected industry.
What Guides Us
Our mission and vision
Strengthening the sector
To strengthen Karnataka's plantation sector by advocating for growers, encouraging scientific and sustainable cultivation practices, fostering collaboration, and preserving the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Among the world's finest
To position Karnataka's plantation produce among the world's finest through quality, sustainability, innovation and ethical cultivation ensuring lasting prosperity for present and future generations of planters.
What We Do
Four pillars of service to our members
Advocacy & Representation
We represent our members at state and national levels engaging government departments, commodity boards, financial institutions and policymakers on labour, taxation, market conditions and climate-related challenges so the voice of Karnataka's planters is heard.
Scientific & Technical Support
We collaborate with leading research institutions, scientists and industry experts to provide practical guidance on crop management, pest and disease control, climate resilience, irrigation and emerging agricultural technologies.
Sustainability & Stewardship
Our members are committed to responsible, shade-grown cultivation that balances agricultural productivity with biodiversity conservation, soil health and water resource management across the ecologically vital Western Ghats.
Community & Knowledge Sharing
Through conferences, workshops, seminars and networking we foster collaboration and innovation and we support plantation families with scholarships for the children of estate employees and welfare initiatives.
Our Journey
Milestones through the decades
The Association is founded
Growers across Karnataka come together to form a unified body representing the region's coffee, tea and spice estates.
Expanding member support
KPA broadens its work on labour welfare and estate advisory services as the industry modernises.
A voice in policy
The Association strengthens its role in shaping taxation and commercial policy affecting plantation growers.
Championing sustainability
Shade-grown cultivation, biodiversity and certification move to the heart of the Association's agenda.
65+ years of service
KPA continues to serve a thriving community of growers, blending heritage with a forward-looking vision.
Governance
Board of Trustees
Our Trustees provide continuity and long-term guidance, safeguarding the Association's assets and enduring interests while upholding the values on which it was founded.
Mr. M. Salman Baseer
Chairman
Mr. M.C. Kariappa
Vice-Chairman
Mr. Yeshwant R. Gurjer
Trustee
Mr. A. Arvind Rao
Immediate Past Chairman
Our Leadership
The Executive Committee
The Association is governed by an elected Executive Committee of experienced planters who steward its work on behalf of the membership and represent the sector before government, industry and the wider community.
Mr. M. Salman Baseer
Chairman
Mr. M.C. Kariappa
Vice-Chairman
Mr. Yeshwant R. Gurjer
Committee Member
Mr. Sameer Gurjer
Committee Member
Mr. A.P. Rajaram
Committee Member
Mrs. A. Namitha Rao
Committee Member
Mr. P.M. Pavan Monnappa
Committee Member
Mr. K.P. Appaiah
Committee Member
Mr. A. Nanda Belliappa
Committee Member
Mr. Krishanth Chowdlu
Committee Member
Mr. Vishal Ponnappa
Committee Member
Join Us
Grow alongside the region's planting community
Whether you grow coffee, tea, pepper, cardamom or rubber, the Association stands with you. Reach out to learn about membership and the services we offer our members.
Enquire about membership