Telangana Horticultural University leads GI push for Armoor turmeric

Researchers preparing GI application for Armoor turmeric. After field studies in Nizamabad district, data on ‘Erra Guntur’ variety’s unique qualities and cultivation methods gathered. Application to be submitted soon

Hyderabad: Researchers from the Telangana Horticultural University have initiated the process to secure a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the world-famous Armoor turmeric. An application will soon be submitted to highlight the crop’s regional identity and unique qualities.

To support the GI application, a team led by Telangana Horticultural University principal researcher Dr Pidigam Saidaiah visited Jakranpally, Nandipet, and Armoor mandals in Nizamabad district on Thursday.

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The team collected comprehensive data on turmeric varieties cultivated by farmers, land characteristics, and types of soil used. They also gathered information on cultivation technology, tools, seed treatment methods, fertilizers, sowing techniques, and irrigation systems.

Details regarding the varieties of turmeric arriving at the agricultural market committee in Nizamabad, pricing trends, and the types of products offered for sale were also documented.

Sharing insights from the study, Dr Saidaiah said over 80 per cent of the turmeric grown in Nizamabad is of the ‘Erra Guntur’ variety, which is highly valued by local farmers for its yield, vibrant colour, high quality, and excellent dry recovery rate.

“There is strong global demand for this variety. Most of the required information for the GI application has been collected and it will be submitted shortly,” he said.

Dr B Mahender, head of the Turmeric Research Station in Kammarpally, noted that farmers cultivate turmeric in both black cotton soil and red soil enriched with tank silt. NABARD District Development Officer Praveen and several farmers also participated in the study.