Bhubaneswar: Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, the Governor of Odisha, highlighted the urgent need to enhance the production of edible oil within the country during a meeting on Friday. He emphasized that this initiative under the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) is essential for reducing India’s reliance on imports, conserving foreign currency, and bolstering food security.
During the meeting held at New Abhishek Hall in Lok Bhavan, the Governor pointed out that despite India being primarily an agricultural nation, it still imports a significant amount of edible oil. This reliance leads to a considerable drain on foreign exchange reserves. He argued that increasing domestic production would not only strengthen the economy but also promote self-sufficiency.
Describing the mission as a pivotal aspect of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, he stated that improved domestic oil production would ensure economic stability and protect against global supply chain issues and fluctuations in international oil prices.
The Governor elaborated on the benefits of oil palm cultivation, noting that it yields four to five times more oil per unit area compared to traditional oilseed crops and remains productive for about 30 years, providing farmers with a reliable long-term income. He mentioned that the mission supports various aspects including quality planting materials, irrigation, processing infrastructure, guaranteed procurement, marketing, and scientific extension services.
He also pointed out that Odisha’s favorable climate and ample agricultural land position the state to significantly contribute to India’s goal of edible oil self-sufficiency. The cluster-based approach implemented by the state government, in partnership with district administrations, research institutions, and private stakeholders, is expected to foster a sustainable oil palm ecosystem while enhancing rural livelihoods.
The Governor noted that the mission would help diversify farming practices, create rural job opportunities, stimulate agro-based industries, attract private investments, and lead to enhanced and stable incomes for farmers in processing, logistics, and marketing sectors.
He stressed the importance of effective execution, urging for timely target achievements, capacity building for farmers, expansion of processing facilities, and increased adoption of modern technology to ensure all eligible farmers benefit from the program.
During the meeting, the Governor assessed the subsidies available to farmers and discussed strategies to further promote oil palm cultivation. He also interacted with palm oil company representatives about the challenges faced in cultivation expansion and mission implementation.
Additionally, he recommended boosting the production of other oilseeds and pulses while encouraging the use of electric vehicles and solar energy to lessen dependency on imported fossil fuels.
Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, provided a comprehensive overview of the NMEO-OP’s implementation in Odisha. The welcome address was given by Kalunge Gorakh Waman, Director of Horticulture, and Geetashri Parhi, Deputy Director, offered the vote of thanks. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Agriculture Department, representatives from palm oil companies, and Lok Bhavan officials.
