The Government of India has officially established the National Turmeric Board, aimed at fostering the growth and development of the turmeric and turmeric products industry within the country. The board will play a pivotal role in providing leadership, enhancing existing efforts, and fostering greater coordination with the Spices Board and other government agencies to promote the turmeric sector’s growth.
Turmeric has garnered global interest for its potential health and wellness benefits, and the National Turmeric Board intends to capitalize on this by increasing awareness, consumption, and international market expansion to boost exports. The board will also focus on research and development of new products, leveraging traditional knowledge for value-added turmeric offerings, and capacity building for turmeric growers. Quality and food safety standards will be promoted, ensuring that turmeric’s full potential is harnessed for the benefit of humanity.
The activities of the board will enhance the well-being and prosperity of turmeric growers by providing better returns for their produce through value addition. Additionally, the board’s research, market development, increased consumption, and value addition efforts will help maintain India’s position as a leading exporter of high-quality turmeric and turmeric products in global markets.
The National Turmeric Board will comprise a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, representatives from various ministries including AYUSH, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry, senior state government officials on a rotational basis, research institutions, turmeric farmers, exporters, and a Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce.
India stands as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally. In the year 2022-23, India cultivated turmeric across an area of 3.24 lakh hectares, producing over 11.61 lakh tonnes, which accounts for more than 75% of global turmeric production. With the concerted efforts of the National Turmeric Board, India aims to achieve turmeric exports worth USD 1 Billion by 2030.