Nizamabad (Telangana), Jan 14 (UNI) Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday virtually launched the National Turmeric Board office in Nizamabad, aimed at boosting the development and export of turmeric, popularly known as the 'Golden Spice.'
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar and Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind also participated virtually in the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Goyal highlighted the significance of the launch coinciding with an auspicious day of celebrations across the country.
He emphasised that the National Turmeric Board will prioritise the welfare of turmeric farmers, development of high-quality turmeric varieties, and the promotion of its exports.
“There is immense potential for increasing turmeric productivity in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,” Goyal said, adding that the board’s activities will ensure the holistic growth of the turmeric sector in India.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar expressed happiness over the establishment of the Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, describing it as a significant step that will uplift the lives of turmeric farmers.
He praised Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind for overcoming numerous challenges and fulfilling his written promise to establish the board under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also extended gratitude to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for his support.
Bandi Sanjay noted that the board's establishment would bring multiple benefits, including price determination, direct procurement, branding, and increased national and international exports. The board will allocate special funds, establish price stabilisation measures, and ensure crop insurance against natural disasters.
He congratulated Palle Gangareddy on his appointment as the first Chairperson of the board and conveyed best wishes to turmeric farmers, stating that the board would usher in a new era of prosperity for them. He concluded by wishing everyone a happy Makar Sankranti.
Palle Ganga Reddy has been appointed as the first Chairperson of the National Turmeric Board, with its headquarters established in Nizamabad, Telangana. The board will include representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce. Additionally, representatives from the top two turmeric-producing states, Maharashtra and Telangana, as well as Meghalaya—known for its Lakadong turmeric—will be part of the board.
The National Turmeric Board has been tasked with providing leadership and fostering coordination among various government departments and agencies to support the turmeric sector.
Key objectives include: Facilitating growth and development of turmeric farming and trade. Tapping the vast potential for expanding turmeric exports, especially considering its health and wellness benefits. Promoting research and development of value-added turmeric products, leveraging traditional knowledge. Creating awareness and developing international markets to boost turmeric exports.
India is the world’s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric. In 2023-24, the country cultivated turmeric on 3.05 lakh hectares, producing 10.74 lakh tonnes, accounting for over 70 per cent of global turmeric production. India also dominates the global turmeric trade, with a 62 per cent share. During the same period, the country exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products worth USD 226.5 million.
The activities of the National Turmeric Board aim to enhance the well-being and prosperity of turmeric farmers by ensuring their active participation in the value chain and promoting sustainable growth in the turmeric sector.
UNI VV ARN