Two-Day Workshop in Guwahati to Promote Sustainable Palm Oil Production in India

The two-day national review and workshop on "Sustainable Palm Oil Cultivation," organized by the Assam Agricultural Department, has successfully concluded in Guwahati. This event gathered key stakeholders, including government officials, private companies, farmers, and international organizations, to exchange best practices and promote sustainable palm oil cultivation in India.

Addressing Challenges and Solutions for the National Edible Oil Mission:

Prior to the workshop, dialogue sessions were held with farmers and representatives from the palm oil industry to discuss the challenges facing the sector and to share effective practices. Participants included farmers and industry representatives from various regions across the country. Following these discussions, a physical and financial review of state performance was conducted with government representatives to identify obstacles in implementing the National Mission on Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). Assam's Agriculture Minister, Mr. Atul Bora, emphasized the strategic importance of sustainable palm oil cultivation during his address and assured farmers of the government’s ongoing support.

The Need for Increased Palm Oil Production for National Food Security:

Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, stated that palm oil cultivation is crucial for ensuring national food security. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in increasing the share of domestically produced palm oil from the current 2% to 20%.

Initiatives to Enhance Palm Oil Production:

To accelerate palm oil production, the workshop showcased various technological advancements, including the use of shell gene technology to improve plant quality and oil yield. Special attention was given to ensuring the availability of high-quality planting material, which is vital for the success of palm oil cultivation. International experts, including representatives from the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), provided insights on global trends and regulatory developments in palm oil farming. Additionally, the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) discussed sustainability and climate resilience.

Advancing Palm Oil Production in India:

Industry leaders such as Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL), 3F Oil Palm Private Limited, Patanjali Foods Limited (PFL), and AAK actively participated in the workshop, sharing their experiences within the palm oil value chain. Their contributions underscored the significant role of the private sector in promoting sustainable palm oil production in India. The program concluded on a positive note, with a focus on the future prospects of palm oil cultivation, particularly in the Northeast region. The collaboration among policymakers, industry leaders, farmers, and international experts has established a robust foundation for the future of palm oil production in India, balancing environmental sustainability with value chain development.