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National Turmeric Board – Genesis, Challenges, and Prospects for India’s Turmeric Economy

National Turmeric Board – Back in the Spotlight
The demand for a National Turmeric Board (NTB) has resurfaced as a key issue in the ongoing elections in Telangana. In this article, the UCN Team provides a detailed analysis, presenting key concepts and insights on the news.
Why NTB Promise is Viewed with Skepticism
The announcement to set up a National Turmeric Board (NTB) in Nizamabad has been received with skepticism by local farmers. This is because their long-pending demand for the Board has remained unfulfilled over several past election cycles.
The issue of not having an NTB was raised repeatedly by farmers of Telangana during 2014, 2018 state polls and even the 2019 national elections. Despite assurances, only a regional spices board office was sanctioned in 2021. This failed to satisfy farmers.
Moreover, while recent speeches reiterate commitments towards establishing the NTB, no solid steps like land allotment have actualized thus far. In light of this history where assurances have not translated into outcomes, farmers now perceive the NTB promise as potentially another false electoral carrot.
Importance of Turmeric Economy in Telangana
Telangana is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric in the country, highlighting the importance of the crop to the state.
India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric in the world, with more than 62% share of world trade in turmeric. In the year 2022-23, an area of 3.24 lakh hectares was under turmeric cultivation in India with a production of 11.61 lakh tonnes, which accounts for over 75% of global turmeric production.
Nizamabad is the largest turmeric market in Telangana. Turmeric farmers in the region are known to be “super-rich” given the scale and profitability of cultivation here. The extensive fields along the NH 44 and NH 63 showcase the dominance.
However, high investments are needed as farmers spend around ₹1.5 lakhs per acre. Despite yields of 25 quintals per acre, returns remain uncertain as market prices often don’t cover the production costs.
Why Farmers Demand NTB and MSP
Farmers have consistently demanded a National Turmeric Board (NTB) and Minimum Support Price (MSP) system for two main reasons:
Firstly, to get remunerative and stable prices for their produce instead of fluctuating market rates.
Secondly, current market prices fail to cover their high production costs of around ₹1.5 lakhs per acre. This reduces incentives for long-term investments.
An MSP mechanism can hence safeguard incomes despite volatility and drive enhanced investments in turmeric farming. The MSP assurance along with NTB’s wider development initiatives are thus key farmer demands.
Overview of National Turmeric Board
The Government of India has notified the establishment of the National Turmeric Board, which aims to focus on the development and growth of turmeric and turmeric products in the country. However, the board has not been set up yet.
Purpose and Focus Areas
The key purpose of the National Turmeric Board (NTB) is to develop the turmeric sector in India through a dedicated governing body.
Its focus areas include:
- Capacity building of farmers through skill development
- Promoting quality standards and adherence
- Increasing exports and global demand for Indian turmeric
- R&D for new products and value-addition based on traditional knowledge
Composition and Structure
The NTB will be headed by a Chairperson appointed by the central government.
It will have members from various ministries and departments like AYUSH, Agriculture, Commerce etc.
There will be participation of 3 state governments on a rotational basis.
It will also include industry and farmer representatives.
Administrative support will be provided by the Department of Commerce.
Significance for India
- India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of turmeric
- Accounts for >75% of global production
- 30+ varieties grown across 20 states
- Maharashtra and Telangana lead production
- Turmeric exports were worth $207 million in 2022-23
The NTB will further strengthen India’s pre-eminent position globally.
Key Functions and Action Plan
Increasing Exports
A key focus area is boosting exports from the current levels.
The export target set is to reach $1 billion by 2030 through the NTB’s efforts.
Driving Consumption
Domestically, the NTB will drive consumption by spreading awareness on the health and wellness benefits of turmeric.
Product Development
For product development, the focus will be on further R&D leveraging traditional knowledge of turmeric usage.
It will drive innovation of value-added products through this route.
Farmer Welfare
For farmer welfare, the NTB aims to improve price realization for them by boosting demand.
It will also run capacity building and skill programs to empower them.
Through these multi-pronged initiatives, the NTB will holistically develop the turmeric economy – from farms to end-products.
Final Thoughts
In the UCN team’s careful evaluation, the National Turmeric Board (NTB) holds great promise for transforming the turmeric economy in India through its dedicated focus.
It will enable India to retain leadership globally as the dominant producer and exporter, while also empowering farmers through better skills and income realization.
Suggested Way Forward
However, for the NTB to truly impact the ground situation, some key steps are vital:
- The central government should take tangible steps to promptly establish the Board.
- A clear framework for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and farmer welfare is key to rebuilding trust
- A robust, long-term turmeric policy is critical for India to retain competitiveness in global markets while supporting farmers
The NTB has the potential to reinvigorate the turmeric economy, uplift farmers, and cement India’s leadership.