Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question focuses on agricultural statistics and crop distribution in India, specifically the commercial production of coffee.
Step 2: Key Formulas and approach:
Recall which state in the southern hilly regions dominates plantation agriculture for coffee (Arabica and Robusta varieties).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
• Karnataka is the undisputed leader in coffee production in India.
• It accounts for over \(70\%\) of the total coffee produced in the country.
• The major coffee-producing regions in Karnataka are located in the Western Ghats districts of Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan.
• Kerala is the second-largest producer of coffee in India, but its share is significantly smaller than Karnataka's.
• Assam is famous for tea production, while Chhattisgarh is primarily a cereal-producing state.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Karnataka is the major coffee producing state in India, making Option (C) the correct choice.