National Turmeric Board Aims to Enhance Prospects for Growers:
The establishment of the National Turmeric Board (NTB) is set to provide a significant boost to turmeric cultivation in the northern districts of Telangana. This board will offer support to farmers and traders at every stage of turmeric production, from sowing to export.
The Nizamabad agriculture market yard, one of the largest turmeric markets, plays a crucial role in turmeric sales. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced the formation of this board, and the central government has now officially notified its constitution. The National Turmeric Board’s primary focus is to foster the development and growth of turmeric and its related products in India. It will provide leadership in turmeric-related matters, enhance existing efforts, and promote better coordination with agencies like the Spices Board and other government bodies to advance the turmeric sector.
Turmeric’s health and wellness benefits have garnered substantial attention worldwide. The NTB plans to leverage this interest to raise awareness and consumption, explore new international markets to boost exports, support research and development of innovative turmeric products, and tap into traditional knowledge for value-added turmeric offerings. Furthermore, the board will emphasize the importance of quality and food safety standards, ensuring compliance. It aims to fully harness turmeric’s potential for the benefit of humanity.
The National Turmeric Board (NTB) will comprise a chairperson appointed by the central government, members from various ministries, and representatives from both central and state governments. It will also include institutions engaged in turmeric research, as well as farmers and exporters. Additionally, a secretary will be appointed by the Department of Commerce.
India holds a dominant position as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally. In the 2022-23 season, turmeric was cultivated across 3.24 lakh hectares in India, resulting in a production of 11.61 lakh tonnes, representing over 75% of the world’s turmeric production. India boasts more than 30 varieties of turmeric cultivated in over 20 states, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu being the leading producers. India’s share in the global turmeric trade stands at over 62%.
During 2022-23, India exported 1.534 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products valued at INR 4207.45 million, involving over 380 exporting firms. Key export markets for Indian turmeric include Bangladesh, the UAE, the USA, and Malaysia.
With the National Turmeric Board’s dedicated efforts, it is anticipated that turmeric exports will reach INR 1 billion by 2030.
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