The Lohit district administration in Arunachal Pradesh has launched a major oil palm plantation drive. Officials initiated the programme in Wakro circle with the goal of improving farmers’ income and supporting India’s palm oil mission.
This initiative under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) is expected to transform local agriculture. Deputy Commissioner Shashvat Saurabh led the launch event, stating that the Lohit oil palm plantation programme aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
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Boosting agriculture through oil palm
The plantation drive covers over 200 hectares of land in Wakro. More than 50 farmers have already enrolled in the first phase. Officials from the agriculture and horticulture departments, along with Palm Tech India Pvt. Ltd., are guiding farmers on planting and managing oil palm.
Agricultural officers stressed that oil palm requires specific soil and climate conditions. Fortunately, Wakro’s terrain and temperature suit its growth. Experts provided hands-on training to farmers on land preparation, irrigation techniques, and sapling care.
Officials also assured farmers of technical assistance at every stage. They promised timely delivery of saplings and subsidies under central and state schemes.
Encouraging youth to return to farming
DC Shashvat Saurabh highlighted that oil palm farming could help reverse the trend of rural migration. Many young people leave villages due to low farming returns. However, with the Lohit oil palm plantation model, agriculture could become profitable again.
He said, “We want our youth to look at farming as a sustainable livelihood. Oil palm has great economic potential. A single hectare can yield profits within three years if managed well.”
The administration is also promoting contract farming with industry players. This move ensures farmers have a guaranteed market for their produce, reducing post-harvest losses.
Women and SHGs take the lead
Women farmers and Self Help Groups (SHGs) are showing active interest. Several SHG members from Wakro, Sunpura, and Tezu have already participated in training sessions. The district plans to distribute more saplings to these groups under livelihood support schemes.
To support SHGs, the administration has tied up with Arunachal State Rural Livelihood Mission. These groups will not only grow oil palm but also be trained in processing and marketing.
Officials believe involving women will ensure long-term success. Many SHG leaders shared their enthusiasm during the launch event and expressed hope for improved incomes.
Eco-friendly approach in plantation
Addressing concerns about environmental balance, DC Saurabh assured that only non-forest and fallow lands will be used. He stressed that environmental safety remains a top priority.
“Palm oil demand is growing. But we won’t clear forests for plantations,” he said. “We are taking a responsible and science-backed approach.”
The horticulture department confirmed that they conducted a detailed soil survey. They selected only those plots that met all environmental and agronomic requirements.
A long-term vision for Arunachal
The Lohit oil palm plantation programme is part of a broader state initiative to expand cash crop farming. Arunachal’s climate and geography offer ideal conditions for oil palm, rubber, and bamboo.
Officials hope that Lohit’s success will inspire other districts. Plans are underway to extend similar projects to Namsai, Changlang, and Lower Dibang Valley.
Meanwhile, DC Saurabh urged elected village representatives to motivate more farmers to join. He promised continuous monitoring and regular reviews to ensure plantation survival and proper maintenance.
The district will host monthly training camps and review meetings. These will track progress and resolve issues faced by participating farmers.
Community response and next steps
The response from the farming community has been positive. Many villagers are keen to shift from traditional crops to oil palm due to better returns. A few have already started preparing land for the next phase.
Over the next few months, the district aims to increase plantation coverage to 500 hectares. The agriculture department is planning to distribute high-yielding saplings and fertiliser kits.
Officials confirmed that the next round of farmer registrations will begin in August. Interested farmers can apply through their gram panchayat offices.
The Lohit oil palm plantation drive marks a key step in transforming Arunachal’s rural economy. It promises better income, job creation, and reduced dependency on imported edible oils.
As the first saplings take root in Wakro, the district sets a hopeful example of innovation, sustainability, and local empowerment.
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