Consider the following statements about turmeric during the year 2022-23:
I. India is the largest producer and exporter of turmeric in the world.
II. More than 30 varieties of turmeric are grown in India.
III. Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are major turmeric producing States in India.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation
Statement I is correct. India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of turmeric by a significant margin. In 2022–23, India had a turmeric cultivation area of approximately 3.24 lakh hectares, producing 11.61 lakh tonnes of turmeric. India accounts for over 75% of global turmeric production and over 62% of global turmeric exports. Major export destinations include the USA, UAE, Bangladesh, and Iran.
Statement II is correct. India’s diverse soil types and climatic conditions enable the cultivation of more than 30 known varieties of turmeric across various states. Each variety differs in terms of curcumin content, aroma, colour, and market use. Well-known varieties include Alleppey, Rajapuri, Salem, Erode, and Lakadong — the last being particularly prized for its exceptionally high curcumin content.
Statement III is correct. Telangana is the top turmeric-producing state in India, followed by Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka as major contributors. Other significant producing states include Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. India’s varied agro-climatic zones allow turmeric cultivation across a wide geographic spread.
In 2023, the Government of India constituted the National Turmeric Board to coordinate efforts across ministries and institutions — aimed at enhancing production, promoting exports, encouraging value addition, and improving income for turmeric farmers.
All three statements are therefore correct.