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.