The Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has called on all states to step up their efforts under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). This mission is a key part of India’s strategy to become self-sufficient in edible oil production, reduce import dependency, and increase farmers’ incomes.
Launched to boost domestic oil palm cultivation, the mission aims to establish oil palm plantations across 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26. Special focus is being given to harnessing the agro-climatic potential of the North-eastern region and other states that are conducive to oil palm cultivation.
While some regions have made notable progress, others need to accelerate their efforts. The slow pace in utilizing allocated funds and delays in meeting plantation targets highlight the need for a more focused and coordinated approach.
Chouhan stressed that states must prioritize their plantation targets by addressing obstacles and optimizing available resources. With significant unspent funds under NMEO-OP, states are encouraged to increase resource use for infrastructure development, farmer support, and plantation expansion. Additionally, greater engagement with farmers is essential to address misinformation, expedite the distribution of assistance, and ensure ongoing farmer participation.
To enhance transparency and efficiency, the government has introduced digital monitoring systems, including geo-mapping and drone surveillance. The Minister urged states to fully cooperate with these measures. Furthermore, the Viability Price (VP) mechanism has been introduced to shield farmers from market fluctuations, and states are urged to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) promptly to provide this benefit to farmers.
The Union Minister reiterated the importance of a collaborative effort in achieving self-reliance in edible oil production. A strong partnership between the central and state governments, implementing agencies, and farmers will be crucial to meeting the mission’s objectives.
(Source: PIB)
