Turmeric (Curcuma longa), native to India, has been studied extensively for its effects against viral diseases in recent decades, but the COVID-19 pandemic has renewed interest.
About Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is used as a condiment, dye, drug and cosmetic in addition to its use in religious ceremonies.
India is a leading producer and exporter of turmeric in the world.
The top five turmeric-producing states of India in 2020-21 are Telangana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
Climate and Soil
Turmeric can be grown in diverse tropical conditions from sea level to 1500 m above sea level.
It requires a temperature range of 20-35 C with an annual rainfall of 1500 mm or more, under rainfed or irrigated conditions.
Though it can be grown on different types of soils, it thrives best in well-drained sandy or clay loam soils with a pH range of 4.5-7.5 with good organic status.
Varieties
A number of cultivars are available in the country and are known mostly by the name of locality where they are cultivated.
Some of the popular cultivars are Duggirala, Tekkurpet, Sugandham, Amalapuram, Erode local, Salem, Alleppey, Moovattupuzha and Lakdong.
Preparation of land
The land is prepared with the receipt of early monsoon showers.
The soil is brought to a fine tilth by giving about four deep ploughings.
Planting is also done by forming ridges and furrows.
Plantation
Whole or split mother and finger rhizomes are used for planting and well-developed healthy and disease-free rhizomes are to be selected.
Why turmeric?
Post pandemic, turmeric is one of the fastest-growing dietary supplements.
The global curcumin market, valued at $58.4 million in 2019, is expected to witness a growth of 12.7 percent by 2027.
As the world’s largest producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric, India stands to gain from this.
Global standing
India produces 78 per cent of the world’s turmeric.
The country’s turmeric production saw a near consistent growth since Independence till 2010-11 after which it started fluctuating.
The pandemic has given a boost to the crop, with the production witnessing a rise of 23 per cent.
Though the production and export of turmeric has risen, farmers have not benefitted from its pricing.