(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Aug 23 (KNN) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal reviewed the functioning of the Plantation Boards under the Department of Commerce, including the Spices Board, Tea Board, Rubber Board, Coffee Board and the recently constituted Turmeric Board.

Senior officials from the ministry and the Boards attended the review meeting.

During the discussions, the Minister stressed the need to expand India's export opportunities through market diversification, promotion of value-added products, adherence to quality standards and effective use of benefits available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

He called on the Boards to work with the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) to promote brand 'India', with equal contributions from each Board.

Goyal suggested the establishment of a 'Bharat Pavilion' at major international and domestic trade fairs to allow the Boards to collectively showcase their products.

He further directed that all Geographical Indication (GI) products promoted by the Boards should incorporate 'India' in their logos to strengthen their global identity.

The Minister underscored the importance of ensuring the welfare of growers, workers and their families through existing schemes.

He urged the Boards to align with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to provide skilling programmes, while continuing capacity building and training initiatives in areas such as good agricultural practices, organic production and quality enhancement.

In addition, he called for measures to support all stakeholders through ease of doing business initiatives, outreach and sensitisation programmes.

Goyal also proposed the creation of a common incubation centre, on the lines of the Atal Innovation Mission, to encourage research, innovation and start-up development in the plantation sector.

(KNN Bureau)

MENAFN24082025000155011030ID1109967373