Tobacco Cultivation in India: Relief to Tobacco Farmers

Explore the history, major regions, production practices, and economic impact of tobacco cultivation in India, one of the world’s largest tobacco producers.

Context: The government has amended the Tobacco Board Rules, 1976, to extend the registration validity for Virginia tobacco growers from one year to three years.

About Tobacco Cultivation in India

Tobacco cultivation in India was introduced by the Portuguese in 1605.
It is one of the important commercial crops cultivated in India.
Tobacco types cultivated in India: Flue-cured Virginia (FCV), Burley, Bidi, Chewing, Natu, Oriental, HDBRG, Lanka, Hookah, Motihari and Jati tobaccos, etc.
India is the only country which produces tobacco in 2 seasons.
Highest Production in India: (1) Gujarat (41%) (2) Andhra Pradesh (22%) (3) Uttar Pradesh
Highest Production Worldwide: (1) China (2) India (3) Brazil

Ideal conditions for growth

Frost-Free Climate: Tobacco requires about 100 to 120 days of frost-free climate to mature.
Temperature: An average temperature of around 80°F (27°C)
Soil: Tobacco is grown in warm climates with rich, well-drained soil.

Also Read: Tobacco Epidemic in India

Tobacco Board of India

Tobacco Board of India was established in 1976 as a statutory body under Section (4) of the Tobacco Board Act, 1975. (HQ – Guntur, Andhra Pradesh)
Nodal Ministry: Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Functions:
- To promote the export of tobacco and its related products.
- To ensure that tobacco growers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce.

UPSC PYQ

Q. With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: (2022)

The Tea Board is a statutory body.
It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru.
The Board has overseas offices in Dubai and Moscow.

Which of the statements given above are correct? (2022)

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 2 and 4

(d) 1 and 4

Answer: D