Relevance: GS Prelims – Agriculture
Context
- The Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and the North Eastern Council (NEC), in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya, launched Mission “Golden Spice” – Integrated Lakadong Turmeric Value Chain Enhancement Project with an outlay of ₹175.45 crore.
- The mission aims to transform Meghalaya’s Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Lakadong turmeric into a globally competitive, high-value organic spice brand.
Objectives of Mission Golden Spice
- Increase farmers’ income from around ₹30–40 per kg to nearly ₹80 per kg by 2030.
- Expand the area under cultivation from about 2,500 hectares to nearly 7,500 hectares.
About Lakadong Turmeric
- Geographical Location: Indigenous to the Jaintia Hills region (East and West Jaintia Hills districts) of Meghalaya.
- Key Active Compound: Contains an exceptionally high curcumin content of 7% to 10%—nearly four times the global average (typically 2–3%).
- Agro-Climatic Specificity: Cultivation trials outside Meghalaya show a marked decline in curcumin levels, underscoring the non-replicable microclimate and soil chemistry of the Jaintia Hills.
- GI Tag Status: Granted Geographical Indication (GI) tag as a unique agricultural product of Meghalaya.
- Characteristics: Highly prized for its deep golden color, rich aroma, and high nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potential.
Implementation Structure
- The mission will be implemented in two phases:
- Phase I: Value Chain Strengthening
- Strengthening farmer institutions.
- Developing post-harvest infrastructure.
- Improving processing and storage facilities.
- Enhancing market linkages.
- Phase II: Expansion and Scale-up
- Expansion of the cultivation area.
- Promotion of exports.
- Brand building and value addition.
- Integration with domestic and global markets.
Key Implementing Agencies
- The mission is anchored by: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). And North Eastern Council (NEC).
- The Mission builds upon convergence with schemes and interventions of the Ministries of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Food Processing Industries and Commerce, along with APEDA, the Spices Board, the National Turmeric Board, ICAR, MeitY, NABARD, SFAC and the Government of Meghalaya.
| About the North Eastern Council (NEC) The North Eastern Council was established in 1971 under the North Eastern Council Act, 1971. It is the nodal agency for the economic and social development of the North-Eastern region. It functions under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). Members include: Governors and Chief Ministers of all eight North-Eastern states. The Union Home Minister (Chairperson). |
Conclusion
Mission “Golden Spice” reflects the Government’s broader vision of promoting region-specific agricultural products through value addition, branding and market integration. By leveraging the unique agro-climatic advantages of Meghalaya and strengthening the entire turmeric value chain, the initiative aims to transform Lakadong turmeric into a globally recognised premium spice while enhancing farmers’ incomes and fostering sustainable development in the North-East.