Start Turmeric Cultivation On Small Scale Level: PAU Tells Farmers

Ludhiana, April 20, 2016: The agronomy experts of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have advised the farmers to start commercial cultivation of turmeric only on small scale, for gaining experience in production as well as marketing of the produce.

According to Dr Thakar Singh, Head, Department of Agronomy, turmeric, commonly known as ‘haldi,’ offers a good scope for diversification of cereal based cropping system. It is largely used in diversified forms such as a condiment, colouring agent, curry powder and for flavorings, he told. Besides, it is also used in drug and cosmetic industries, he said, adding that the turmeric can be grown and processed easily for household purpose.

Another expert, Dr Amandeep Singh Brar said, “As the consumption of turmeric is limited in each house, large-scale cultivation of turmeric can cause glut in the market and may lower the prices.” Before going for commercial cultivation of turmeric, knowledge about its processing should be gained and market avenues should be explored, he advised. The turmeric cultivation in the state will be helpful in meeting its own demand as well as boosting the country’s export, he observed.

The experts have also cautioned the farmers against the cultivation of white turmeric, which is not useful for making dried ginger (sund). “Many times, farmers cultivate white turmeric by considering it as dried ginger (sund). Sometimes, people also sell the seed of white turmeric as dried ginger (sund),” they observed. The experts have urged the farmers not to sow white turmeric.