About Mission Golden Spice:
- It is an integrated Lakadong Turmeric Value Chain Enhancement Project.
- It is a convergence-led initiative for turmeric cultivation and value-chain development in the State of Meghalaya.
- Time Period: Five-year roadmap (2025–2030)
- Phases: It is to be implemented in two phases namely Value Chain Strengthening (Phase 1) followed by Expansion & Scale-up (Phase 2).
- It is anchored by MDoNER and the 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.
Key Facts about Lakadong Turmeric:
- It is mainly cultivated in the Lakadong area of Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya.
- It is distinguished by its remarkable curcumin content, ranging from 7 to 12%
- It is darker in colour and is grown organically without the use of fertilisers.
- It has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2024.
- Benefits: It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
