New High-Yield Turmeric Selection from IISR Offers Increased Earning Potential
IISR Surya: Revolutionizing Turmeric Farming in India
IISR Surya, a high-yielding light-yellow turmeric variety developed by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), is set to bring a new era of quality-focused turmeric farming in India. This scientifically developed variety has been designed to enhance farmers' yield and profitability while catering to the needs of the spice powdering and export industries.
Key Characteristics
IISR Surya stands out with its natural light-yellow color and smooth texture, making it highly preferred by the spice powdering and export industries, especially in premium markets such as Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Its appealing color and quality also make it ideal for value-added products like turmeric tea, herbal health drinks, and cosmetics.
Yield
The high-yield potential of IISR Surya is one of its most attractive features. On average, farmers can expect to yield approximately 29 tonnes of fresh turmeric per hectare and 5.8 tonnes of dry turmeric. Under optimal conditions and good management, yields can reach up to 41 tonnes per hectare, significantly higher than traditional varieties, providing a substantial economic advantage to farmers.
Cultivation Practices
To cultivate IISR Surya, farmers should prepare the land through deep ploughing and application of well-decomposed organic manure. Quality seed rhizomes treated for diseases should be used, and planting should typically occur at the onset of the monsoon on raised beds or ridges with adequate spacing. The crop duration is approximately 7 to 8 months, and 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.
IISR Surya responds well to organic inputs such as compost, biofertilizers, and mulching practices, which boost productivity while maintaining soil health. Advanced practices like precision farming with drip irrigation and organic mulch can help achieve maximum yields.
Impact and Recommendation
By cultivating IISR Surya, farmers can access premium markets without quality concerns linked to color or chemical adulteration, thus improving profitability and market access internationally. IISR Surya has been officially recommended by the All India Coordinated Research Project on Spices (AICRPS) for cultivation in major turmeric-growing states like Kerala and Telangana.
IISR Surya is a reliable option for farmer producer organizations (FPOs), agri-preneurs, and small processing units for branding local turmeric products. Women self-help groups and rural entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from IISR Surya through value-added product lines like turmeric powder, pickles, and cosmetics.
IISR Surya thrives in well-drained loamy or sandy-loam soils rich in organic matter and with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is well-suited for tropical and sub-tropical regions with high humidity and good rainfall, particularly in Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and parts of Maharashtra.
First published on 28 Jul 2025, 07:00 IST, IISR Surya is a smart agricultural solution that combines science, market need, and farmer welfare, set to revolutionize the turmeric farming industry in India.
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Cooking with IISR Surya turmeric can contribute to a sustainable lifestyle by promoting healthy eating and supporting local farmers. Its premium quality and high yield make it ideal for creating food-and-drink products, such as Golden Milk, turmeric-infused dishes, and homemade turmeric teas, that align with global cuisines and contemporary healthy-cooking trends.
By embracing IISR Surya in home-and-garden practices, homeowners can effortlessly integrate this versatile ingredient into their daily life without compromising on taste or quality. It can be used in a variety of recipes for cooking or beauty treatments, making it a valuable addition to any modern lifestyle.
The cultivation and consumption of IISR Surya contribute positively to sustainable living, as it encourages cooperation between farmers, small businesses, and local communities in adopting eco-friendly agricultural practices, such as organic farming and composting, that promote soil health and environmental preservation.
