The Union Agriculture and Development Welfare Minister has urged all states to accelerate their efforts under the National Mission on Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), with the goal of achieving self-sufficiency in edible oil production, reducing dependence on imports, and boosting farmers' incomes.
The mission focuses on increasing the domestic production of oil palm, with a target to establish commercial plantations on 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26. Special attention is being given to the northeastern and southern states, where the climate is favorable for oil palm cultivation.
While some areas have made significant progress, others still need to put in more effort to meet plantation targets.
The minister has urged states to utilize allocated funds fully and speed up efforts in regions experiencing delays.
To enhance transparency and efficiency, the government is implementing measures such as digital monitoring, geo-mapping, and drone surveys.
Additionally, the minister emphasized the importance of maintaining an attractive and profitable price level for oil palm from the perspective of producers.
