National Turmeric Board – Turmeric, often referred to as India’s golden spice, has been an integral part of the country’s agricultural heritage, cuisine, and traditional medicine for centuries. With India accounting for over 70% of the world’s turmeric production, this vibrant spice is more than just a crop—it’s a symbol of cultural pride and economic significance. Recognizing its potential, the Government of India recently launched the National Turmeric Board under the leadership of Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry. This landmark initiative aims to revolutionize turmeric production, exports, and farmer welfare across the nation.
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Why the National Turmeric Board
India produced an impressive 10.74 lakh tonnes of turmeric during 2023-24, outpacing the global market by contributing more than 70% of the world’s turmeric supply. Furthermore, the country exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric worth $226.5 million, cementing its position as a global leader. Yet, there remains untapped potential in terms of value addition, quality improvement, and market expansion.
To address these gaps, the National Turmeric Board will
- Focus on Research and Development (R&D): Advancing scientific research to improve turmeric varieties, enhance yields, and develop innovative products.
- Boost Value Addition: Encouraging the development of turmeric-based value-added products such as essential oils, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and health supplements.
- Ensure Quality Standards: Establishing global-standard quality benchmarks to meet international export requirements.
- Strengthen the Supply Chain: Improving logistics, storage, and market linkages to reduce wastage and ensure fair prices for farmers.
Nizamabad: The Heart of Turmeric
The board’s headquarters will be established in Nizamabad, Telangana, a region renowned for its high-quality turmeric production. Nizamabad has long been a hub for turmeric farming and trade, making it a fitting choice for spearheading this transformative initiative. The board’s location will allow it to stay closely connected with farmers and stakeholders, ensuring grassroots-level impact.
Empowering Farmers Across 20 States
The National Turmeric Board’s initiatives will directly benefit farmers across 20 turmeric-producing states, including.
- Telangana and Andhra Pradesh: Major contributors to India’s turmeric production.
- Maharashtra: Known for its unique varieties of turmeric.
- Other states: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Odisha, West Bengal, and more, which are integral to India’s turmeric landscape.
By addressing farmer challenges such as price volatility, lack of market access, and quality constraints, the board aims to enhance their income and secure their livelihoods.
Driving India’s Global Leadership in Turmeric
The launch of the National Turmeric Board signifies India’s commitment to strengthening its position in the global spice trade. By investing in R&D, improving supply chains, and ensuring quality standards, India can expand its share in international markets and meet the growing global demand for turmeric in sectors such as health and wellness, pharmaceuticals, and food.
A Sustainable Future for Turmeric
Apart from economic benefits, the board will focus on sustainable farming practices to ensure environmental conservation. Promoting organic farming, reducing the use of chemical inputs, and educating farmers on climate-resilient techniques will be pivotal in ensuring the long-term growth of the turmeric sector.
The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is a golden opportunity for India to unlock the full potential of its turmeric sector. By focusing on innovation, farmer welfare, and global market expansion, the board aims to position India as not just the largest producer but also the most trusted supplier of high-quality turmeric in the world.
As the board’s initiatives take root, the Indian turmeric industry is set to embark on a journey of transformation, benefiting millions of farmers and reaffirming India’s legacy as the land of the golden spice.