Odisha’s Koraput Set To Export Turmeric Soap Made By Tribal Women

Bhubaneswar: Soap bars made from turmeric in Odisha’s Koraput district are all set to be exported in a big way following their rising popularity abroad, reports said on Saturday.

Known for its antiseptic property, turmeric soap will be of a great financial help to the tribal women who are engaged in churning out the unique product in the district when the export takes off.

The decision to start exporting turmeric soap from Koraput was taken after it was found to be in high demand in several places, particularly in Guatemala, sources said, adding that export of the product would also give a special identity to the tribal-dominated district.

A detailed plan has been chalked out by the district administraton of Koraput, Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) and Mission Shakti to launch the process of exporting soaps made from turmeric roots.

To begin with, turmeric soap will be exported to Guatemala where some products had been sent earlier on an experimental basis. It was found to be very popular and in high demand, according to a senior ORMAS official. “Therefore, we are taking necessary steps to export the product as part of a commercial venture and promote it in a big way,” he said.

Stating that the move has made the women members of Self Help Groups (SHG) who are engaged in turmeric soap making, he said more than 1,000 tonnes of turmeric is harvested in hilly areas of Laxmipur block of the district every year.

Soap made from turmeric in the district are already being sold across the state, sources said, adding that the mountainous areas of the district are conducive for the plant growth and the surplus produce is being utilised in making soaps.

During Covid pandemic, two SHGs in Laxmipur block imparted training to 20 women in making and crafting soap from turmeric. Thereafter, soap making was taken up on a large scale in a systematic manner in 2021, they said.

As a large number of tribal women are earning income  by making turmeric soaps, the move to export the product will significantly improve their living condition, said an official.