India is the world’s leading producer and exporter of turmeric. From kitchens to pharmaceutical labs, this golden spice is widely used for its color, flavor, and medicinal value. Despite this, farmers often struggle to grow turmeric varieties that meet the specific quality needs of the spice processing industry. A key demand from these industries has been for light-colored turmeric suitable for powdering and export. However, traditional varieties like Mydukur and Salem Local, known for their preferred yellow shade, are cultivated in limited regions and not widely available.
To address this gap, ICAR–Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, introduced a scientifically developed variety named IISR Surya. After years of research and field trials, this variety was created to help farmers meet industry needs while improving their yield and profitability.
Why IISR Surya is a Game Changer
IISR Surya is distinct because of its natural light-yellow rhizomes and rich aroma, making it highly suitable for the powdering and spice processing industry. This variety eliminates the need for blending different turmeric types to achieve the desired color, which is a common practice in the market.
On average, IISR Surya yields about 29 tonnes of fresh turmeric per hectare and 5.8 tonnes of dry turmeric. Under favorable conditions and good management, yields can reach up to 41 tonnes per hectare. This is significantly higher than many traditional varieties, giving farmers a strong economic advantage.
This variety has been officially recommended by the All India Coordinated Research Project on Spices (AICRPS) for cultivation in major turmeric-growing states such as Kerala and Telangana, indicating its adaptability to diverse agroclimatic zones.
Regional Adaptation
IISR Surya is particularly well suited for tropical and sub-tropical regions with high humidity and good rainfall. It performs best in Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and parts of Maharashtra. The variety thrives in well-drained loamy or sandy-loam soils rich in organic matter and with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
In Kerala and Telangana, field trials have shown excellent performance in terms of rhizome development, disease resistance, and market acceptance. The variety also shows promise in central Indian states with similar climatic conditions, as long as proper irrigation and nutrient management are followed. Farmers in these regions who have traditionally grown turmeric like Pratibha or Salem Local can consider IISR Surya for its better yield and market suitability.
Cultivation Practices for High Returns
For successful cultivation of IISR Surya, farmers should begin by preparing the land through deep ploughing and application of well-decomposed organic manure. The use of quality seed rhizomes that are treated for diseases is crucial. Planting is done during the onset of the monsoon, usually on raised beds or ridges spaced for healthy plant growth.
The crop duration is approximately 7 to 8 months. Proper care during the growth period, such as irrigation during dry spells, timely weeding, and integrated pest and nutrient management, ensures good rhizome development and higher yields.
The variety responds well to organic farming practices, and farmers using compost, biofertilizers, and mulch can further improve productivity while maintaining soil health.
Market Potential and Industrial Use
One of the biggest advantages of IISR Surya is its direct appeal to the spice powdering and export industries. The natural light-yellow color and smooth texture of the rhizomes are exactly what processors look for, especially in high-end markets in Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia. These markets often reject turmeric with darker shades or chemically blended varieties.
By growing IISR Surya, farmers can tap into premium markets and avoid price cuts due to quality concerns. It is also ideal for value-added products like turmeric tea, herbal health drinks, and cosmetics, opening up opportunities beyond traditional sales.
Nutritional and Medicinal Value
IISR Surya retains all the beneficial properties of traditional turmeric. It is rich in curcumin, the active compound responsible for turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Though its curcumin content is moderate compared to dark-colored varieties used for medicinal extraction, it is perfectly suitable for culinary and general health purposes. The rhizomes also contain essential oils, dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, iron, and Vitamin C, making this variety useful for boosting immunity, aiding digestion, improving skin health, and preventing infections. Regular consumption of turmeric powder made from IISR Surya can support general wellness while adding vibrant color and flavor to meals.
A Sustainable Choice for Modern Agriculture
IISR Surya supports sustainable farming by giving higher yields from the same land area, reducing the need to expand cultivation into forest or marginal lands. Its suitability for organic inputs and integrated farming systems makes it a reliable option for environmentally conscious farmers. The uniform quality of produce helps reduce post-harvest losses and enhances market value.
Farmer producer organizations (FPOs), agri-preneurs, and small processing units can use IISR Surya as a reliable raw material for branding local turmeric products. Women self-help groups and rural entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from this variety through value-added product lines like turmeric powder, pickles, and cosmetics.
IISR Surya is not just a new turmeric variety, it is a smart agricultural solution that combines science, market need, and farmer welfare. With light-colored rhizomes, high yield, and strong market demand, it offers a profitable option for farmers across various turmeric-growing regions. Backed by ICAR-IISR and recommended under national research programs, IISR Surya is set to bring a new era of quality-focused turmeric farming in India.
