Turmeric-Infused Milk Revolutionizes Travel Experience
National Turmeric Board Chairman P. Ganga Reddy, alongside Director of the National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture, M. Sheshu Madhav, recently made waves at the Turmeric Stakeholders’ Conclave in Rajamahendravaram. The event was not only a showcase of innovative ideas but also a platform for groundbreaking announcements that could transform the way we travel.
Introducing ‘Golden Milk’
In a bold move to enhance the travel experience for passengers in trains and flights, National Turmeric Board (NTB) Chairman Palle Ganga Reddy unveiled a visionary project known as ‘Golden Milk.’ This initiative aims to infuse turmeric into milk served to passengers, offering not only a delicious beverage but also a plethora of health benefits.
During his address at the Turmeric Stakeholders’ Conclave, Mr. Ganga Reddy outlined the NTB’s ambitious goal to boost turmeric exports to ₹5,000 crore by 2030, a significant leap from the current ₹1,876 crore. This strategic move is set to not only promote the consumption of turmeric but also elevate the economic prospects of the industry.
Tackling Challenges in Turmeric Farming
Amidst discussions on the future of turmeric, Mr. Ganga Reddy addressed the pressing issue of labor shortages in turmeric farming. To combat this challenge, the NTB plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Rural Development to integrate turmeric cultivation with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). This innovative approach not only addresses the labor shortage but also empowers local farmers by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Furthermore, Mr. Ganga Reddy encouraged farmers in Andhra Pradesh to embrace high-curcumin turmeric seed varieties to maximize profits. He highlighted the exceptional curcumin content in Indian turmeric varieties, such as the ‘Lakadong’ from Meghalaya and the ‘Rajapuri’ from the Konkan region, emphasizing the potential for growth and innovation in the sector.
Securing Geographical Indication (GI) Tags
NIRCA Director Maganti Sheshu Madhav emphasized the importance of securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for specific turmeric varieties grown in Andhra Pradesh. By supporting turmeric farmers in key regions such as Paderu, Lambasingi, Ravulapalem, and Duggirala with advanced technologies and high-curcumin seed varieties, NIRCA aims to elevate the quality and reputation of Indian turmeric on a global scale. Mr. Seshu Madhav stressed the need for a harmonious blend of science, tradition, and entrepreneurship to unlock the full potential of the turmeric industry.
Unlocking Global Dominance in the Turmeric Sector
At the conclave, a pivotal strategy paper titled ‘Crafting India’s Turmeric Sector for Global Dominance’ was unveiled, setting the stage for strategic policy decisions in marketing and cultivation. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director and Vice-Chancellor of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi, underscored the importance of proactive measures to propel the turmeric sector to new heights.
Y. Venkateswara Rao, Chairman of the Rythu Nestham Foundation, and Danda Raji Reddy, Vice-Chancellor of the Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, engaged with farmers to exchange insights and ideas for a more sustainable and prosperous future in turmeric cultivation.
As the sun set on the Turmeric Stakeholders’ Conclave, the air was filled with a sense of optimism and anticipation for the transformative journey ahead in the turmeric industry. The fusion of innovation, tradition, and collaboration promises to shape a brighter future for turmeric farmers and consumers alike, paving the way for a golden era in the realm of turmeric-infused milk and beyond.
