A New Dawn in Turmeric Farming

IISR Surya: A Game-Changer Turmeric Variety for Indian Farmers and Global Markets: India has long been the heartland of turmeric cultivation. But now, there’s a fresh breakthrough that could redefine the spice industry—IISR Surya, a new turmeric variety introduced by the Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR). This variety has been specially developed for the masala and powdering industry to tackle a key market gap—the limited availability of light-coloured turmeric, a long-standing challenge for both farmers and traders.

Why Light-Coloured Turmeric Matters

Traditionally, Indian farmers have grown yellowish turmeric, which is perfect for cooking but not ideal for certain international markets like Japan and Europe. These markets prefer lighter shades of turmeric for health supplements, powders, and beauty products. Due to the lack of supply, exporters sometimes resort to mixing or blending, which affects the quality. With IISR Surya’s naturally light rhizome and strong aroma, that compromise may no longer be necessary.

Boosting Yields and Profit Margins

One of the biggest challenges farmers face is low yield per hectare. That’s where IISR Surya truly shines. It promises 20–30% higher yield than common varieties, and under the right conditions, it can produce up to 41 tonnes per hectare. That’s not just good news—it’s transformative. For example, a farmer currently producing 25 tonnes could potentially boost output to over 32 tonnes with Surya, all while catering to a premium market.

Backed by Research and National Support

This is not just an experimental variety. The All India Coordinated Research Project on Spices (AICRPS) has given it a green light, recommending cultivation in key spice-growing states like Kerala and Telangana. This endorsement opens the door for widespread adoption and could significantly boost India’s turmeric export profile, especially to health-conscious markets abroad.

Empowering Farmers, Naturally

For many small-scale farmers, the switch to IISR Surya can mean more stable income, better market prices, and reduced dependence on blending practices. Since the variety suits powdering and is in high demand, it opens up new business models—from organic turmeric farming to turmeric-based cottage industries. It also supports sustainable agriculture, as higher yields from less land reduce pressure on natural resources.

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IISR Surya: A Game-Changer Turmeric Variety for Indian Farmers and Global Markets: