Turmeric Board Boon to the Quality Produce, Remunerative Price

Nizamabad: The National Turmeric Board (NTB) will change the fate of farmers across the country, especially in Telangana state. From cultivation to exports, the board will play key role. The farmers are eagerly waiting for the initiative of the board for improvement of crop and its benefits. On war footing basis, the officials began arrangements for the setting up of the board in Nizamabad.

Maharashtra is top producer of turmeric, but the central government set up the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad by giving importance to the Telangana state. However, the quality of turmeric cultivated in north Telangana districts is superior. Usually, farmers bring wet turmeric for sale in the Nizamabad agriculture market yard for early disposal of the produce.

Only dried turmeric, either finger variety or bulb variety will get remunerative price. In view of this, the Spices Board India created awareness among the farmers over dried turmeric for the last few years. Exclusive Turmeric Board will create awareness over cultivation and marketing strategies to the farmers. For better price, Telangana farmers sent the turmeric to Sangli market in Maharashtra.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Spices Board India Nizamabad deputy director Sundareshan said that they are waiting for the norms from the central government over Turmeric Board function. Both Spices Board India office and Turmeric Board will work in Nizamabad, he said. Spices Board dealt with 52 spices barring the turmeric soon, he said. "We are trying to cooperate with the farmers to cultivate quality turmeric and get remunerative prices, " he explained.

Meanwhile, 30 varieties of turmeric crops are being cultivated in around 20 states across the country. Of the world's need for turmeric, India will cater 62 percent of the global market. As for food, cosmetic and medicinal needs, turmeric is being used in various countries. For the last five years, the model price of turmeric stands between Rs 6,350 to Rs 15,000 per quintal in Nizamabad agriculture market yard.