Context:
Centre recently notified the constitution of the National Turmeric Board, a long-standing demand of turmeric farmers across the country.
About National Turmeric Board:
- Focus – Development and growth of turmeric and turmeric products in the country.
- Composition –
- A Chairperson (appointed by the Central Government)
- Members from the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry, etc.
- Mandate –
- Facilitate greater coordination with the Spices Board and other Government agencies.
- Increase awareness and consumption, develop new markets internationally to increase exports.
- Develop on traditional knowledge for value-added turmeric products.
About Turmeric:
- Belongs to ginger family.
- Native to Southeast Asia.
- Climatic and Soil – Diverse tropical conditions, 20–35 degree Celsius
- Annual rainfall of 1500 mm or more.
- Well-drained sandy or clay loam soils.
- Curcumin – A major component of turmeric that gives turmeric its yellow color.
- Used in traditional Indian medical systems, cosmetic industries, to detoxify the liver etc.
- Medicinal Properties – Such as antiviral, analgesic, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory etc.
- Treatment – As a dietary supplement for arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression etc.
Status of Turmeric in India:
- India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric in the world.
- Accounts over 75% of global turmeric production.
- India has more than 62% share of world trade in turmeric.
- Largest producing states – Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
- Kandhamal Haldi, indigenous to Odisha, has a GI Tag.
- Leading export markets – Bangladesh, UAE, USA and Malaysia
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements:
1. The Tea Board is a statutory body.
2. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
3. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru.
4. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
The Tea Board is functioning as a statutory body of the Central Government under the Ministry of Commerce. Hence, Statement 2 is not correct.
Its headquarters is located in Kolkata. Hence, Statement 3 is not correct.
