Panaji: Farmers in Goa have shown interest in turmeric growth given its feasibility as commercial spices.
In an effort to improve turmeric cultivation in the Goa Directorate of Agriculture is taking the initiative from urging farmers to foster turmeric as a stack of cashews.
In addition to being used as a public kitchen material, turmeric also has a request for the efficacy of the drug and the pharmaceutical value.
“After doing a lot of trials with farmers with the help of ICAR-Central Coastal Coastal Research Institute (CCARI), Old Goa, we realized that turmeric was a very promising plant for Goa.
We have conducted a trial to grow it on cashew plantations and there is a big demand from Farmers in Goa to get this year’s harvest, “said Director of Agriculture, Nevil Alphonso.
“The plus point of this plant is that it is not affected by the main insect pest and by attack wild animals,” he said, adding that in most wild animals can trample plants, but instead reproachment for them.
In addition to arecanut and black pepper, farmers in Goa usually do not choose other spices.
Most farmers in the state grow turmeric only in some bags with the total area cultivated not exceeding two to three hectares.
This is usually organic turmeric planted without using fertilizer.
It is planted in the hilly area of Goa but can be planted in all types of soil as long as there is no delicious water in the area.
“Turmeric is considered a plant that is not easily damaged.
The farmers can even pack powder and store them until they get a good market.
Usually sold at Rs 800-900 per kg,” Alphonso said.
“Pharmaceutical companies are also interested in buying this product, so there is no marketing scarcity.” He added.
Encouragement of the Ministry of Agriculture for Kunyit Cultivation in Goa
