SME Futures Editorial
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi, naming Palle Ganga Reddy as its first Chairperson. The Board’s headquarters has been established in Nizamabad, Telangana.
Highlighting the auspicious timing of the launch, Goyal noted that representatives from various ministries, exporters, and producer bodies would play a significant role in the Board’s activities.
Turmeric, often called the ‘Golden Spice,’ is cultivated in 20 states, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Meghalaya. Goyal emphasised the Board’s commitment to the welfare of turmeric farmers and its focus on boosting production, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
“The formation of the Board is a step towards enhancing the income of turmeric producers while leveraging India’s dominant position in global turmeric production,” said Goyal.
The National Turmeric Board aims to drive research, develop new turmeric-based products, and promote value addition for export markets. It will work on improving logistics, supply chains, and awareness about turmeric’s medical and essential properties. Ensuring quality and safety standards for turmeric production and exports will also be a priority.
India cultivates turmeric on over 3.05 lakh hectares, producing 10.74 lakh tonnes annually, accounting for more than 70 per cent of global production. With 30 varieties of turmeric, including Meghalaya’s renowned Lakadong Turmeric, India exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products worth $226.5 million in 2023-24.
The Board includes representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, the Department of Pharmaceuticals, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and the Department of Commerce. Additionally, members from major turmeric-producing states like Maharashtra, Telangana, and Meghalaya will ensure regional interests are addressed.
The National Turmeric Board will focus on tapping into the untapped potential of the turmeric sector, promoting health and wellness benefits, and expanding trade opportunities globally. “This initiative will provide leadership, augment efforts, and facilitate coordination across government agencies to ensure the holistic development of the turmeric sector,” Goyal concluded.
The Board’s establishment marks a significant step in solidifying India’s position as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, while supporting farmers and enhancing the spice’s global appeal.
