Turmeric crop in Thoothukudi is ready for harvest and wait begins for traders

Even as turmeric raised on a few hundred acres in the district is ready for harvest, the lukewarm response from traders, who earlier would begin purchasing the aromatic crop a week ahead of ‘Pongal’ celebrations, has left the growers perplexed.

As turmeric plants are traditionally used for decorating the houses, ‘Pongal’ pot, vehicles etc. during the celebration, the aromatic tropical plant has been cultivated in Sivathaiahpuram, Jakkammalpuram, Servaikkaaranmadam, Thangammalpuram and the adjoining villages in the district on a few hundred acres. Since the red soil in these villages are conducive for turmeric cultivation, farmers of these hamlets raise the rhizome, a 6-months crop, that fetches them good revenue in a shorter duration.

Since ‘Pongal’ will be celebrated on January 15 this year, the crop nourished by timely showers during the last northeast monsoon, is now ready for harvest, which is likely to commence within next two days. As this region recorded unusual dip in temperature over the past two weeks, edges of the leaves have slightly wilted while the yield is really good this year with each plant developing huge rhizome.

Even though the traders used to give money in advance ahead of harvest for purchasing turmeric from the growers every year, the usual practice is yet to pick-up this year.

“We expect the traders to visit the villages within the next two days to block the turmeric fields,” says grower Kesavan of Thangammalpuram.

The turmeric harvested – latest by Saturday – would be sent for the consumption of Tamils living in far-off cities like Mumbai, Delhi etc and the harvest to meet the local demand will be completed before Tuesday (January 13).

“The Tamil Nadu Government, which gives a sugarcane along with the ‘Pongal’ gift hamper, should also add turmeric to this list by purchasing it from the growers. Since the government is giving ₹3,000 cash, we expect increased sale of turmeric this year,” Mr. Kesavan said.