The story
Farmers in the Lakadong area of West Jaintia Hills have grown a local turmeric for generations on hill slopes with heavy rainfall. It is known for an unusually high curcumin content, which makes it valued for food, health and nutraceutical uses. Lakadong Turmeric received a GI in 2023-24, and the state promotes it for export.
In numbers
Lakadong turmeric, grown in West Jaintia Hills, is a top-grade variety with 10% curcumin.
Lakadong Turmeric, One District One Product (india.gov.in)Invest India gives the curcumin content of Lakadong turmeric as 7-12%.
Meghalaya state profile (Invest India) · 2026Lakadong Turmeric was registered as a GI in 2023-24 under application number 741.
Registration Details of Geographical Indications (GI Registry, IP India) · 2026
GI tag
- Lakadong TurmericApplication no. GI Application No. 741Registration Details of Geographical Indications (GI Registry, IP India)
Ways in for a newcomer
- Slicing, drying and grinding units near farms
- Lab testing and curcumin certification for buyers
- Branded GI turmeric powder and capsules
- Organic certification and aggregation for farmer groups
Problems the cluster faces
- Small, scattered farms and low volumes
- Adulterated or mislabelled 'Lakadong' powder in the market
- Drying and storage in a very wet climate
Businesses to start here
Turmeric Value-Added Products →Organic Turmeric Paste Trading and Packing →Masala / Spice Grinding Unit →Cryogenic Spice Grinding →Organic Grain Cleaning and Packing →