Governor Launches Sunhari Mitti Abhiyan for Turmeric Farmers in Nizamabad

Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Tuesday launched the ‘Sunhari Mitti Abhiyan’ and a dedicated market linkage programme during a farmer interaction event held at the National Turmeric Board headquarters in Nizamabad.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasised the need for greater adoption of modern technology, natural farming methods, crop processing, and value addition to boost the incomes of turmeric growers. He also felicitated outstanding farmer organisations with mementos in the presence of local cultivators.

Shukla stated that Nizamabad has earned a prominent place in India's turmeric sector due to its fertile soil and the dedicated efforts of local farmers. He noted that establishing the National Turmeric Board headquarters in Nizamabad marked a key milestone that fulfilled a long-standing demand in the region, realised through the initiative of MP Dharmapuri Arvind with central government backing.

Describing turmeric as deeply tied to India's culture, Ayurveda, and heritage, the Governor said the objective of the National Turmeric Board extends beyond maintaining India's status as the world's largest producer. He outlined the goal of developing the country into a global hub for turmeric processing and value-added goods while securing remunerative prices for farmers.

Shukla noted that the ‘Sunhari Mitti Abhiyan’ is designed to promote natural farming, lower reliance on chemical fertilisers, improve soil health, and cut cultivation costs. He added that producing residue-free, high-quality turmeric is crucial to meeting rising international demand and securing better overseas prices across Asian, European, and American markets.

He also commended the board for offering training in post-harvest management and quality improvement, noting that facilities like boilers, polishers, and mini-processing units will help Farmer Producer Organisations transition toward value addition.

MP Dharmapuri Arvind said the establishment of the National Turmeric Board with its headquarters in Nizamabad fulfilled a four-decade-long aspiration of regional turmeric farmers, noting that local prices have improved compared to the past.