Amit Shah opens National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, sets target for $1 billion in exports

Nizamabad: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday inaugurated the headquarters of the National Turmeric Board in Telangana’s Nizamabad, announcing that the government has set a target to export turmeric worth $1 billion by 2030.

The inauguration comes nearly 21 months after prime minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of a dedicated board to address farmers’ long-pending demand for a turmeric-focused institution.

No more middlemen, says Shah

Speaking at the event, Shah said that with the formation of the Turmeric Board, farmers will no longer be dependent on middlemen as the board will facilitate packing, branding, marketing and exports.

“During the 2023 Telangana elections, PM Modi had announced the formation of the Turmeric Board. With this, turmeric farmers will benefit greatly as their produce will now reach global markets directly,” he said.

Highlighting health benefits

The minister also underlined the medicinal properties of turmeric, calling it a ‘wonder drug’ known for its antiviral, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits. He noted that India is blessed with turmeric containing high curcumin levels, unmatched globally.

“We have also started promoting organic turmeric. By 2030, India aims to achieve $1 billion worth of turmeric exports,” he added.

India leads global Turmeric trade

India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric, accounting for over 62 per cent of global trade. During 2023-24, the country exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products valued at $226.5 million.

Over 30 varieties of turmeric are grown across India, with major cultivation in Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Turmeric Board’s Role

The National Turmeric Board, officially constituted on October 4, 2023, will focus on increasing global awareness and consumption of turmeric, developing new international markets, promoting research and development of value-added turmeric products, capacity building and skill development of turmeric growers and ensuring adherence to quality and food safety standards.

While announcing the board in 2023, PM Modi emphasised the need for professional management of the entire value chain of turmeric.

“Considering the needs and future prospects of turmeric farmers, the Central Government has decided to constitute the National Turmeric Board for their benefit. It will support farmers in areas ranging from value addition in the supply chain to infrastructure development,” he had said.