Turmeric Board Launched in Nizamabad to Boost Farmers and Industry
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the establishment of the Turmeric Board in Nizamabad is a major step forward for turmeric farmers across India. He stated that the Board would enhance innovation, global promotion, and value addition in turmeric production, creating better opportunities for farmers. Modi shared his enthusiasm in response to a post by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal after the Board’s virtual inauguration on Tuesday.
Highlighting the benefits, Modi emphasized that the Turmeric Board would strengthen supply chains, benefiting both farmers and consumers. The initiative aims to boost international marketing and improve the quality of turmeric products.
The inauguration event was attended by Nizamabad MP Aravind Dharmapuri. The Minister noted that the launch coincided with harvest festival celebrations across India, making it a particularly meaningful occasion. He explained that the Board would include representatives from various ministries, producers, and exporters to address the needs of the entire turmeric sector comprehensively.
Referring to turmeric as the “Golden Spice,” the Minister pointed out that the Board will focus on the welfare of farmers in 20 states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Meghalaya. He highlighted the potential for increasing turmeric production, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which could significantly boost farmers’ incomes.
The Board will also prioritize research and development for new turmeric-based products and focus on value addition to target international markets. Its efforts aim to make Indian turmeric more competitive globally while also raising awareness about its medicinal and essential properties.
In addition, the Board will work on improving logistics and supply chains to expand market reach. Emphasizing quality and safety, the Minister assured that the Board would maintain high standards in turmeric production and exports.
India currently produces 10.74 lakh tonnes of turmeric annually, accounting for 70% of global production. Turmeric is cultivated on 3.05 lakh hectares across the country, with India producing 30 distinct varieties of the spice.
The Central government has appointed Palle Gangadhar Reddy as the chairperson of the Turmeric Board. Representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce have also been included. Additionally, members from Maharashtra, Telangana, and Meghalaya, known for its unique Lakadong Turmeric, will contribute to the Board’s activities.
This initiative is expected to uplift India’s turmeric farmers and position the country as a global leader in turmeric production and innovation.
