The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is poised to revolutionize the turmeric industry, with the government aiming for USD 1 billion in exports by 2030. The headquarters in Nizamabad, Telangana, was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, nearly two years after Prime Minister Modi’s announcement of the board’s formation. The board directly addresses long-standing demands from turmeric farmers. Shah stated that the board will ensure farmers no longer depend on intermediaries, streamlining processes like packing, branding, marketing, and exports. He underscored turmeric’s well-known health advantages. India’s dominance in the global turmeric market is evident, holding the top position in production, consumption, and exports, with over 62% of world trade. In 2023-24, the export of turmeric and associated products reached 1.62 lakh tonnes, valued at USD 226.5 million.
The National Turmeric Board, officially constituted on October 4, 2023, intends to leverage the growing global demand for turmeric. Its objectives include increasing awareness of turmeric’s health benefits, expanding international markets to drive up exports, and promoting research and development for new turmeric products. The board will emphasize skill development for turmeric growers and ensure adherence to quality and food safety standards. Turmeric is cultivated in over 20 Indian states, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu being the largest producers. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the increased global awareness and demand for turmeric, stressing the need for a professional approach across the entire value chain, from production to export and research, to benefit farmers. The board will assist farmers in various areas, including value addition in the supply chain and infrastructure-related works.