Union Minister Launches National Turmeric Board

1. On January 14, 2025, The Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi.
2. The launch marks a significant step in promoting the turmeric sector in India, as the Minister announced Shri Palle Ganga Reddy as the first Chairperson of the Board.
3. The headquarters of the newly established Board will be located in Nizamabad, a prominent region in turmeric production.

Key Highlights of the National Turmeric Board

1. Establishment and Leadership:

   1. Chairperson: Shri Palle Ganga Reddy was appointed as the first Chairperson of the National Turmeric Board.
   2. Headquarters: The Board’s headquarters is situated in Nizamabad, a major hub for turmeric cultivation in India.

2. Mission and Vision of the Board:

   1. Welfare of Farmers: The Board will focus on the welfare of turmeric farmers across 20 states, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
   2. Special attention will be given to increasing production in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where there is immense growth potential.
   3. Research and Development: The Board will promote research and development (R&D) of new turmeric products, exploring ways to add value to turmeric and its related products for international markets.
   4. Quality Standards: The Board will ensure that turmeric production meets quality and safety standards, focusing on both domestic consumption and exports.

3. Focus Areas for Growth:

   1. Increased Production and Yield: Efforts will be made to boost turmeric yield, improve cultivation practices, and develop logistics and supply chains for expanding the global trade of turmeric.
   2. Health and Wellness Promotion: The Board will work on raising awareness about the essential and medicinal properties of turmeric, enhancing its reputation in health and wellness sectors.

4. Composition of the Board:

   1. The National Turmeric Board will include representatives from various ministries such as the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Pharmaceuticals, and Department of Commerce.
   2. State Representation: The top turmeric-producing states—Maharashtra and Telangana—along with Meghalaya (noted for its Lakadong Turmeric) will be part of the Board. States will be represented on a rotational basis.

5. India’s Role in Global Turmeric Production:

   1. Leading Producer: India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally, accounting for more than 70% of the world’s turmeric production.
   2. Turmeric Varieties: India produces over 30 different varieties of turmeric.
   3. Export Data: In the 2023-24 period, India exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric and its products valued at 226.5 million USD. The country holds more than 62% of the world’s turmeric trade share.

Strategic Goals of the National Turmeric Board

1. Coordination and Leadership: The Board will play a key role in coordinating efforts across various government departments and agencies, providing leadership to the sector and ensuring effective implementation of policies and initiatives.
2. Enhancing Trade: A major focus will be on boosting trade in turmeric and its derivatives, especially in light of the growing global demand for products with health benefits.
3. Sector Development: The Board will work towards the overall growth of the turmeric sector, focusing on sustainable practices and ensuring that the sector remains competitive and profitable.

Impact on the Turmeric Industry

1. Increased Income for Farmers: The formation of the National Turmeric Board is expected to enhance the income of turmeric farmers by improving yield, introducing better farming techniques, and expanding export opportunities.
2. Global Market Expansion: The Board will also work to increase India’s market presence globally, particularly in regions where turmeric’s health benefits are gaining recognition.

Conclusion

The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is a strategic move to support the turmeric industry in India, benefiting millions of farmers, expanding production capacity, and increasing India’s influence in the global turmeric trade. With a focus on research, quality, and export potential, the Board is poised to ensure the growth and sustainable development of the turmeric sector, boosting the country’s agricultural exports while enhancing its role in the global health and wellness market.

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