Minister asks farmers to adopt organic turmeric cultivation

Himachal Pradesh, known for its pristine landscapes and rich agriculture/horticulture heritage, is now making efforts to promote organic turmeric farming as a means to empower women farmers in the hill state.

Chandra Kumar, Agriculture Minister of Himachal Pradesh, has urged farmers, especially women, to adopt organic turmeric cultivation, highlighting its profitability and market potential.

Speaking as chief guest at the Mahila Samman Samaroh in Jwali Assembly constituency in Kangra district on Saturday, he announced that the state government has fixed a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 90 per kg for naturally grown raw turmeric.

He claimed that turmeric will create new opportunities for women farmers, enable them to achieve financial independence while nurturing the environment.

The minister encouraged Mahila Mandals to form groups and take up turmeric farming to boost their income and contribute to self-reliance. He announced a financial assistance of Rs 20,000 each to all 36 Mahila Mandals in the area, with the first instalment of Rs 10,000 already released by him.

Chandra Kumar added that the Agriculture Department will oversee farmers’ registration and provide training in natural farming techniques. The turmeric will be processed at the upcoming Spice Park in Hamirpur and sold under the newly launched state-backed brand “Himachal Haldi”, ensuring quality and traceability in both domestic and export markets.

He said the biggest specialty of turmeric is that it is not harmed by wild or stray animals, due to which farmers do not have to worry extra about the safety of the crop.

Turmeric, often referred to as the “golden spice,” holds immense economic and medicinal value and its demand continues to rise both domestically and internationally. Recognising this potential, the state government, along with various agricultural organisations, has initiated programs to encourage sustainable and profitable cultivation of organic turmeric, the minister said.

It may be mentioned that turmeric has long held a significant place in the agricultural landscape of Himachal Pradesh, not only as a valuable spice but also as a cultural and economic asset for local communities.