NATIONAL TURMERIC BOARD (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Government Policies)

Context: Recently, the Government of India officially established the National Turmeric Board, signaling its commitment to promoting the development and expansion of the turmeric industry and its products within the country.

National Turmeric Board

• The primary goal of NTB is to foster the expansion and enhancement of both turmeric and turmeric-related products.
• The key objectives include raising awareness and consumption, exploring new international markets, advancing research and development, and leveraging our indigenous knowledge to enhance the value of turmeric.
• Composition

oChairperson who is appointed by the Central Government.

oA Secretary who is appointed Department of Commerce.

• Other members from

oMinistry of AYUSH

oDepartments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the Union Government,

oSenior state government representatives from 3 states (on rotation basis)

oSelect national/state institutions involved in research

oRepresentatives of turmeric farmers and exporters.

Turmeric Crop

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is used as condiment, dye, drug and cosmetic in addition to its use in religious ceremonies.
• India is a leading producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric in the world.
• Soil and climate: A friable well drained red loamy soil in wet or garden lands under tropical conditions is ideal.
• Annual rainfall: It can be grown in regions receiving an annual rainfall of 1500 mm or more.
• Temperatures: between 20 and 30 °C.
• Cultivated States: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Karnataka, West Bengal, Gujarat, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Assam.