How is Gujarat Leading in Oil Palm Production with Over 1,000 MT Annually?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Discover how Gujarat has emerged as a leader in palm oil production, surpassing 1,000 metric tonnes annually. With support from the government and growing adoption among farmers, the state is making significant strides in the National Mission on Edible Oil–Oil Palm.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat has exceeded 1,000 MT in annual palm oil production.
- Over 150 farmers are benefiting from the oil palm initiative.
- Government financial assistance totals Rs 122 lakh since 2021.
- Training programs are being offered for effective cultivation techniques.
- The state plans to expand plantations to 1,000 hectares by 2025.
Gandhinagar, Aug 20 (NationPress) With an annual output surpassing 1,000 metric tonnes of palm oil, Gujarat has solidified its position as a frontrunner in the execution of the National Mission on Edible Oil–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). According to Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel, over 150 farmers in the state have embraced oil palm farming and are enjoying significant economic returns.
The state government has allocated Rs 122 lakh in financial aid to farmers under various aspects of NMEO-OP since 2021. This financial support covers planting materials, crop maintenance for four years, inter-cropping, borewells or pump sets, as well as harvesting tools and mini-tractors.
Officials indicated that high-yielding tenera variety planting materials are provided through authorized agencies, while farmers receive training on scientific cultivation practices, pest management, and harvesting techniques.
As part of the Mega Oil Palm Plantation Drive, Gujarat has already introduced 235 hectares of new plantations this year, with expectations to extend the total area under cultivation to 1,000 hectares by the close of 2025.
In the past decade, local farmers have cultivated oil palm across nearly 5,000 hectares, elevating Gujarat to the seventh position nationally in palm oil production.
Palm oil is recognized as the most widely utilized edible oil globally, appreciated for its longevity and cost-effectiveness. In India, it is extensively used in processed foods and household cooking. Additionally, palm oil derivatives play a vital role in biofuels, pharmaceuticals, soaps, shampoos, and cosmetics.
Given that palm trees can produce fruit for around 30 years post-planting, farmers are assured a reliable, long-term income.
Minister Patel highlighted that farmers’ fresh fruit bunches (FFB) are acquired by affiliated companies through buy-back agreements, with pricing tied to global market values. Officials remarked that government subsidies are designed to ensure that oil palm farming remains financially sustainable.
Farmers are eligible for Rs 20,000 per hectare for domestic saplings and Rs 29,000 per hectare for imported varieties. Furthermore, they qualify for Rs 42,000 per hectare in crop maintenance assistance over four years, up to Rs 50,000 for borewells or pump sets, and support for harvesting tools such as oil palm cutters, motorized chisels, portable ladders, and chaff cutters.
Moreover, those cultivating over 0.5 hectares for more than three years can claim up to Rs 2 lakh for mini-tractors and trolleys.
Point of View
The strides Gujarat is making in palm oil production exemplify a successful agricultural policy that aligns with broader economic goals. The government's commitment to supporting farmers through financial assistance and training is commendable and sets a precedent for other states to follow, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of oil palm cultivation in Gujarat?
Oil palm cultivation offers economic benefits to farmers, including long-term income stability, government subsidies, and technical training in sustainable farming practices.
How much financial assistance does the government provide to oil palm farmers?
Farmers receive various forms of support, including Rs 20,000 per hectare for domestic saplings and Rs 42,000 per hectare for crop maintenance over four years.
