Union Home Minister inaugurates National Turmeric Board headquarters in Nizamabad

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on 29th June 2025, inaugurated the headquarters of the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana. This move strengthens Nizamabad’s status as the “Turmeric Capital” of India, offering an institutional boost to the region’s turmeric farmers.

Background of the National Turmeric Board

• The National Turmeric Board was notified in October 2023 and formally launched in January 2025, but it has become fully functional only now with the opening of its headquarters.
• The Board functions under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, alongside similar commodity boards like those for tea, coffee, rubber, spices, and tobacco.

Why Telangana?

• Telangana was chosen for the headquarters because it ranks as one of India’s top turmeric-producing states.
• In 2024–25, Telangana was the third-largest turmeric producer in the country.
• Major turmeric-growing districts in Telangana include:
  • Nizamabad
  • Jagtial
  • Nirmal
  • Kamareddy

Goals and Objectives of the Board

• The Centre aims to scale turmeric exports to $1 billion by 2030.
• The Board will:
  • Ensure maximum value returns to farmers.
  • Promote GI-tagged organic turmeric.
  • Facilitate training and capacity-building programs for farmers and stakeholders.
  • Assist farmers in meeting global quality and safety standards.
  • Support research and development (R&D), especially into turmeric’s therapeutic and medicinal benefits.

Importance of Turmeric in India

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is native to India and globally renowned for its health benefits.
• India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric in the world.
• In 2022–23:
  • 324,000 hectares were under turmeric cultivation.
  • Total production was 1.16 million tonnes.
• Turmeric is popularly known as the “Golden Spice” due to its rich color and numerous health benefits.

(Source: PIB)