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Key Points

Gujarat has become a leader in India's oil palm mission with annual production exceeding 1,000 metric tonnes. The state government has provided Rs 122 lakh in financial assistance to farmers adopting this crop since 2021. Over 150 farmers are now benefiting from oil palm cultivation which offers long-term income security. The initiative supports planting materials, maintenance, and equipment through structured subsidy programs.

Key Points: Gujarat Leads India Oil Palm Drive with 1000 MT Annual Production

  • Gujarat produces over 1000 metric tonnes of palm oil annually
  • State disbursed Rs 122 lakh in farmer subsidies since 2021
  • Farmers receive up to Rs 29,000 per hectare for planting
  • Oil palm cultivation ensures 30 years of steady income for growers
2 min read

Gujarat leads in oil palm drive with over 1,000 MT annual production: Govt

Gujarat emerges as top oil palm state with 1000 MT annual production. Over 150 farmers benefit from Rs 122 lakh subsidies under National Mission on Edible Oil.

"Gujarat has emerged as a leading state in the implementation of the National Mission on Edible Oil–Oil Palm - Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel"

Gandhinagar, Aug 20

With annual production crossing 1,000 metric tonnes of palm oil, Gujarat has emerged as a leading state in the implementation of the National Mission on Edible Oil–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel said that more than 150 farmers in Gujarat have adopted oil palm cultivation and are reaping economic benefits.

The state government has so far disbursed Rs 122 lakh in financial assistance to farmers under various components of NMEO-OP since 2021. This includes support for planting material, crop maintenance for four years, inter-cropping, borewells or pump sets, as well as tools for harvesting and mini-tractors.

Officials said planting material of the high-yielding tenera variety is being supplied through approved agencies, while farmers are also being trained in scientific cultivation practices, pest management, and harvesting techniques.

As part of the Mega Oil Palm Plantation Drive, Gujarat has already brought 235 hectares under new plantation this year, and the total area under fresh cultivation is expected to reach 1,000 hectares by the end of 2025.

Over the last decade, farmers in the state have planted oil palm on nearly 5,000 hectares, which has pushed Gujarat to seventh place nationally in palm oil output.

Palm oil is the world’s most widely used edible oil, valued for its long shelf life and affordability. In India, it is widely used in processed foods as well as in household cooking. Beyond food, palm oil derivatives are also critical in biofuels, pharmaceuticals, soaps, shampoos, and cosmetics.

With palm trees yielding fruit for almost 30 years after planting, farmers are ensured long-term, steady income.

Minister Patel said farmers’ fresh fruit bunches (FFB) are purchased by associated companies under buy-back arrangements, with prices linked to international market rates. Officials noted that government subsidies are structured to make oil palm cultivation financially viable.

Farmers receive Rs 20,000 per hectare for domestic saplings and Rs 29,000 per hectare for imported ones. They are also eligible for Rs 42,000 per hectare in crop maintenance support over four years, up to Rs 50,000 for borewells or pump sets, and assistance for harvest tools such as oil palm cutters, motorized chisels, portable ladders, and chaff cutters.

In addition, those cultivating more than 0.5 hectares for over three years can claim up to Rs 2 lakh for mini-tractors and trolleys.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While this is good for farmers' income, we must also consider the environmental impact. Oil palm plantations have caused deforestation in other countries. Hope Gujarat is implementing sustainable practices.
A
Aditya G
This is excellent for reducing our dependence on imported palm oil. India spends billions on edible oil imports. More states should follow Gujarat's model. Atmanirbhar Bharat in action! 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
The financial support seems comprehensive - from planting to harvesting equipment. Hope the implementation is smooth and benefits actually reach farmers without middlemen taking cuts.
K
Karthik V
30 years of yield is impressive! This could be a game-changer for small farmers looking for stable income. The training in scientific methods is crucial - hope it reaches all farmers properly.
M
Meera T
Good to see focus on domestic production. But we should also promote traditional Indian oilseeds like groundnut, mustard, and coconut which are more suited to our climate and consumption patterns.

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