Nizamabad MP calls for independent board for essential spice
NEW DELHI: Turmeric farmers in Meghalaya might see a ray of hope with Nizamabad MP Kalvakuntla Kavitha introducing a private member’s bill in the Lok Sabha for setting up a turmeric board that will, among other things, fix a minimum support price for vital spices.
Lakadong turmeric, grown in Jaintia Hills, is said to be one of the best in the country but the production is less and sold at a low price. Kavitha, daughter of Telangana Chief Minister Chandrasekhar Rao, recently introduced the bill seeking formation of the independent board for improving the condition of turmeric growers.
Turmeric is a demand spice because it is an essential ingredient in all Indian kitchens. The demand can be met if Meghalaya takes the lead in its production. NEDFi Data Bank says in 2004-05 Meghalaya produced an average yield of 5,363 kg/hectare.
Lakadong turmeric is a much sought after variety because of its high curcumin content. It is a location specific variety grown in Meghalaya. The Spices Board proposes to extend its organic cultivation over 1,000 ha during the plan period by providing Rs 12,500 per ha as subsidy.
Kavitha is striving for the formation of the board for the last three years and had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the matter.
If such a board is formed, turmeric growers can opt for several facilities such as getting minimum support price, research on high-yielding varieties, technical inputs for farmers, better storage, post-harvest and crop insurance facilities and boosting exports.
Besides, if a turmeric board is formed, it will help convey to the authorities the problems of farmers as it will have on its board public representatives like MPs, government representatives of various ministries and experts.