Pattangi, Aug 26: A new turmeric variety, ‘Pitambari’, is gradually gaining popularity among farmers in the hilly terrain of Koraput district, particularly in Pattangi block. Known for its higher curcumin content compared to conventional varieties, the turmeric has emerged as a promising crop with strong commercial and medicinal potential.

Introduced on an experimental basis in 2023, the cultivation of Pitambari turmeric has now entered its third year. In the 2026-27 agricultural season, around 40 farmers are cultivating the variety across several villages in Pattangi block.

The crop is being grown in Sipaiput under Maliput panchayat; Ekagolur, Katub, Karibeda and Munungbalsa under Golur panchayat; Upar Sembi and Janiguda under Kotia panchayat; and Gangarajpur under Gangarajpur panchayat. Golur has the highest participation, with 19 farmers cultivating the variety across nearly five acres.

The initiative began in 2023 when farmer Bibhishan Golari of Sipaiput started cultivating the improved variety. His success encouraged other farmers to take up the crop. What began as a small experimental project has gradually expanded over the past three years.

Pitambari turmeric was developed by the Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow. According to information from the institute, the variety contains around 6.5% to 8% curcumin, significantly enhancing its medicinal and commercial value.

The variety also has considerable production potential. Around 15 tonnes of turmeric can reportedly be produced from one hectare, while up to 100 kg of oil can potentially be extracted from the turmeric leaves. With turmeric leaf oil fetching around Rs 1,000 per litre, the additional income could provide a financial boost to farmers.

Cultivation of Pitambari turmeric costs approximately Rs 1.5 lakh per hectare annually, while the estimated gross income is around Rs 6 lakh, leaving farmers with a potential profit of nearly Rs 4.5 lakh per hectare.

At present, farmers are primarily cultivating the variety for seed multiplication and supply. However, plans are underway to process the produce into turmeric powder, medicinal products and other value-added items and market them commercially.

The cultivation is being promoted with support from the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and scientific guidance from CIMAP, Lucknow. Senior scientist Dr Prashant Rout said that adopting scientific cultivation practices and strengthening post-harvest processing could turn Pitambari turmeric into a highly profitable crop for farmers.

Jitali Hantal, CEO of Pattangi Agricultural Producer Group Company, said that the current focus is on producing planting material, while plans are being made to process the crop and bring value-added products to the market.

With growing farmer participation, higher curcumin content and promising income potential, Pitambari turmeric is emerging as a new agricultural opportunity in the hilly areas of Koraput.