In a major initiative to enhance the development and growth of the turmeric industry, the Government of India has officially established the National Turmeric Board. The newly formed board is expected to play a key role in promoting turmeric and turmeric products, further harnessing the potential of this versatile spice and expanding its global reach.
The main mission of the National Turmeric Board is to provide leadership in all matters related to turmeric, to coordinate with the concerned government bodies, especially the Spices Board, and to promote efforts to promote the turmeric sector within the country. This strategic initiative is poised to capitalize on the growing global interest in the health and wellness benefits of turmeric and harness the full potential of the spice for the benefit of humanity.
One of the main objectives of the National Turmeric Board is to create awareness about the use and application of turmeric locally and internationally. It aims to explore new markets for exports, promote research and development of innovative turmeric products, and preserve and promote India’s rich traditional knowledge of turmeric. Additionally, the board will focus on enhancing the capacities and skills of turmeric farmers to maximize value addition close to the farms.
Furthermore, the National Turmeric Board will actively work to ensure quality and food safety standards in the turmeric sector and maintain a constant commitment to preserve and improve the full potential of turmeric.
A government official said that the formation of the National Turmeric Board is a sign of considerable development for the turmeric industry in India. He also said that this would result in increased welfare and prosperity of turmeric growers and help India maintain its position as the world’s leading producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric and turmeric products. will
India’s dominance in the global turmeric market is undisputed, with over 75% of the world’s turmeric production coming from its fertile lands. In FY 2022-23, India cultivated 3.24 lakh hectares of turmeric, yielding a staggering 11.61 lakh tonnes of turmeric. This versatile spice is grown in more than 20 states of the country, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu emerging as the leading turmeric producing states.
In terms of international trade, India accounts for 62% of the world trade in turmeric. During the 2022-23 financial year, more than 380 exporters shipped 1.534 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products worth USD 207.45 million to countries such as Bangladesh, UAE, USA and Malaysia. With the creation of the National Turmeric Board and its joint efforts, experts have predicted that turmeric exports could touch USD 1 billion by 2030.
The National Turmeric Board will consist of a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, senior representatives of the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, members of Commerce and Industry of the Central Government, State Governments of the three States. Based on this, select representatives of national/state institutions as well as turmeric farmers and exporters involved in the research. A Secretary will also be appointed by the Department of Commerce to assist in the administrative functions of the Board.
First Published: 04 Oct 2023, 21:17 IST