Context:
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi. Shri Palle Ganga Reddy was announced as the first Chairperson of the Board. The Board’s headquarters is established in Nizamabad.
Composition of the National Turmeric Board
- Includes representatives from Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce.
- Representatives from exporters and turmeric producers’ organizations will be part of the Board.
- State representatives from major turmeric-growing states such as Maharashtra, Telangana, and Meghalaya (known for Lakadong Turmeric) will join, with rotational representation.
Objectives and Focus Areas
- Enhance welfare and income of turmeric farmers across 20 states including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
- Boost turmeric production, with special emphasis on Andhra Pradesh and Telangana’s growth potential.
- Promote research and development (R&D) of new turmeric products and value addition.
- Create awareness about turmeric’s essential and medicinal properties.
- Improve turmeric yield, logistics, and supply chain efficiency to expand into new markets.
- Ensure quality and safety standards for turmeric cultivation and exports.
Turmeric Production and Export Statistics
- In 2023-24, turmeric was cultivated on 3.05 lakh hectares in India, producing 10.74 lakh tonnes.
- India contributes over 70% of global turmeric production and holds more than 62% share of the global turmeric trade.
- India grows 30 different varieties of turmeric.
- Exports of turmeric and related products reached 1.62 lakh tonnes, valued at USD 226.5 million in 2023-24.
Strategic Importance of the National Turmeric Board
- Acts as a coordinating body across government departments for turmeric sector growth and development.
- Focuses on expanding turmeric trade globally, leveraging health and wellness benefits of turmeric.
- Supports farmers by improving production quality, marketing, and export potential.
- Aims to strengthen India’s leadership as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric.
