The Indian government is targeting USD 1 billion in turmeric exports by 2030. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the headquarters of the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana, marking a significant step for turmeric farmers. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement in 2023. Shah emphasized the board’s role in eliminating middlemen, facilitating packing, branding, marketing, and exports. He highlighted turmeric’s health benefits, citing its antiviral, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. The minister also stated that turmeric from Telangana, especially Nizamabad, will soon reach numerous countries. India is the world’s leading producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, holding over 62% of global trade. In 2023-24, exports of turmeric and its products reached 1.62 lakh tonnes, valued at USD 226.5 million.
The National Turmeric Board, established on October 4, 2023, aims to capitalize on the global interest in turmeric’s health benefits. It will enhance awareness, develop international markets to boost exports, promote research and development for new products, and build on traditional knowledge for value-added turmeric products. A key focus will be on skill development and capacity building for turmeric growers. The board will also enforce quality and food safety standards to fully utilize turmeric’s potential. India cultivates over 30 turmeric varieties across more than 20 states, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu being major producers. Prime Minister Modi previously noted the increased global demand for turmeric due to its health benefits. The board is designed to provide professional attention to the entire turmeric value chain, supporting farmers in various aspects from supply chain value addition to infrastructure.