SHILLONG, May 6: One of Meghalaya’s most valued crops, turmeric continues to play a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economy. Known for its high curcumin content and medicinal value, especially the Lakadong variety, turmeric from Meghalaya enjoys strong demand both within India and abroad. However, farmers face a range of challenges, from price fluctuations to lack of proper market infrastructure.
Meghalaya leads turmeric production in the Northeast, with the Jaintia Hills district — particularly Laskein and Thadlaskein blocks — contributing significantly to total output. Lakadong alone covers over 50% of the turmeric cultivation area in the state. Yet, despite the variety’s superior quality, farmers often receive prices similar to lower-grade turmeric due to the absence of proper grading systems in local markets.
Prices tend to soar during lean periods in November and December, reaching up to Rs 170-180 per kg for dried turmeric. But during the post-harvest season, prices fall sharply, often dropping to Rs 70-90 per kg at the farmer level. This unpredictability causes significant financial stress for farmers, who struggle to cover essential expenses like school fees or investing in the next crop cycle.
Adding to the problem is the limited reach of regulated markets. The Mawiong market near Shillong, though designated, is not sufficient to serve the wider farming community. Without broader access to regulated and better-equipped markets, many farmers are forced to sell their produce at lower prices.
A recent decade-long study by the State Agricultural Marketing Board, focused on the Mawiong market, confirmed that turmeric prices have shown a steady and statistically significant upward trend from 2014 to 2024. The study highlighted that minimum temperature plays a key role in influencing prices, while factors like rainfall and maximum temperature had less impact.
The findings suggest a need for policy interventions to improve market access, stabilize prices, and support turmeric growers in adapting to climate changes.
