GoI Establishes National Turmeric Board to Boost Turmeric Sector

New Delhi : The Government of India has officially announced the formation of the National Turmeric Board, a pivotal step towards enhancing the development and growth of turmeric and its related products within the country.

The primary objective of the National Turmeric Board is to take a leadership role in all matters related to turmeric. It will work towards bolstering efforts and fostering better coordination with entities such as the Spices Board and various government agencies, thereby stimulating the growth of the turmeric sector.

Turmeric, renowned for its health and wellness benefits, holds immense potential and international interest. The Board aims to capitalize on this by increasing awareness and consumption, expanding into new international markets, promoting research and development of turmeric-based products, and harnessing traditional knowledge for value-added offerings. Emphasis will also be placed on enhancing the skills and capacity of turmeric growers to maximize their returns through value addition. Quality and food safety standards will be prioritized, ensuring adherence for the benefit of consumers.

The National Turmeric Board's activities will contribute significantly to the well-being and prosperity of turmeric growers, as it focuses on closer value addition to the produce. By dedicating attention to research, market development, increased consumption, and value addition, the Board aims to maintain India's global prominence as a producer and exporter of high-quality turmeric and its derivatives.

The composition of the Board will include a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, members from the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the Union Government, senior representatives from State Governments (on a rotation basis),national and state research institutions, as well as representatives of turmeric farmers and exporters. The Department of Commerce will appoint the Secretary of the Board.

India stands as the world's largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, with an impressive track record in the industry. In the year 2022-23, India cultivated turmeric across 3.24 lakh hectares, resulting in a production of 11.61 lakh tonnes, constituting over 75% of global turmeric production. The country boasts the cultivation of more than 30 turmeric varieties across 20 states, with major producing states being Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

With India commanding over 62% of the global turmeric trade, the sector has substantial export potential. In 2022-23 alone, India exported 1.534 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products, valued at USD 207.45 million, through over 380 exporters. Key export destinations included Bangladesh, UAE, USA, and Malaysia. With the National Turmeric Board's strategic efforts, it is anticipated that turmeric exports will reach an impressive USD 1 billion by 2030.

This initiative demonstrates India's commitment to fortify its position in the global turmeric market and harness the immense opportunities presented by this versatile and health-promoting spice.