Governor inaugurates 8th Session of Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs
Assam has the potential of meeting high quality herbs and spices requirement of the nation as well as globe Governor
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: In a move to protect to protect consumer health and promote fair practices in food trade Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya inaugurated the 8th session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs at a city hotel here today.
In his inaugural address, Governor Shri Acharya highlighted India’s rich legacy in spice cultivation and trade, stating that the country has long been known for its salubrious climate, and fertile lands, which are beneficial for the cultivation of spices with medicinal value. He said that foreign traders were historically drawn to Indian shores due to the availability of spices which were known for their unique healing properties. He stated that the spices like black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom, all reflecting the depth of India’s conducive climate for their growth and their traditional knowledge systems.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recognition of spices as a national strength, the Governor mentioned the declaration of Indian turmeric as a “global super-food” in March 2025. He added that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, India now exports spices to over 195 countries, with exports reaching 1.8 million tones fetching monetary value of approximately Rs. 40,000 crore in FY 2024–25.
Shri Acharya emphasized Assam and Northeast India’s growing role as a hub for organic and high-quality spice production. He cited the GI-tagged Karbi Anglong ginger, Lakadong turmeric, and Bhut Jolokia chili as examples of globally recognized local produce. Assam currently produces over three lakh metric tons of spices annually, most of which are organically grown. He also said that Assam along with North East has the potential of meeting the species requirement of high quality herbs and spices of the nation as well as the globe.
The Governor also lauded initiatives such as the ‘One District, One Product’ scheme and praised the region’s clean environment, traditional and natural farming practices, and agro-climatic diversity as ideal for cultivating premium spices and culinary herbs. Calling the Codex Committee a crucial bridge between farmers and scientists, Shri Acharya said it plays a vital role in advancing organic certification, global branding, and standardization. He underlined that Codex standards help small producers enter international markets by ensuring product quality.
The Governor welcomed international delegates and expressed hope that the session would lead to stronger global standards, more transparent trade, and new opportunities for Indian farmers. He concluded by reaffirming that precise policies, effective partnerships, and innovation are the pillars for making Indian spices a symbol of global excellence.
CEO, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India Rajit Punani, ,Chairperson of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs Dr. M. R. Sudarshan, Secretary, Spices Board of India P. Hemalatha; Senior Food Safety Officer, Codex Secretariat Dr. Hilde Kruse, representatives of member countries of the Codex Alimentarius Commission along with a host of other dignitaries were present on the occasion.