Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy today inaugurated a Mega Oil Palm Plantation Program at Garjee Sector in Gomati district. The event, held under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), aimed at raising awareness and adoption of oil palm cultivation across the state.
With India’s dependence on imported edible oils touching over 60%, the Centre has launched the NMEO-OP to scale domestic production. Tripura, with its favourable agro-climatic conditions, is positioning itself as a key player in this transformation.
Finance Minister Encourages Farmers to Embrace Cultivation
Addressing the gathering, Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through subsidies, training, and market linkages.
“Oil palm cultivation in Tripura is not just a scheme—it is a movement for economic empowerment. We urge our farmers to actively participate in this green revolution,” said the minister.
He assured that necessary infrastructure, such as processing units and procurement centers, would be developed to ease the transition. The minister also encouraged farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) to join hands in this effort.
Oil Palm Cultivation in Tripura: A Strategic Shift
Tripura is among the eight northeastern states identified under NMEO-OP. The plantation drive at Garjee Sector covered over 150 hectares, engaging hundreds of local farmers. Experts from the agriculture department conducted live demonstrations on best planting practices, pest control, and long-term care of oil palm saplings.
According to the Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department, the state has earmarked over 5,000 hectares of cultivable land for oil palm expansion by 2027. The department is collaborating with private firms and scientific institutions to provide quality seedlings and technical support.
Internal Support Measures
- 85% subsidy on sapling cost
- One-time financial assistance for borewells and drip irrigation
- Training through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
- Buyback guarantees with oil mills under contract farming models
Read more on Tripura’s agricultural reforms to understand the wider shift in cropping patterns.
National Perspective: Reducing Dependency on Imports
Launched in 2021, NMEO-OP is a Central Government initiative with a budget outlay of ₹11,040 crore. Besides, focusing on increasing oil palm production to over 10 lakh hectares nationwide by 2027.
India currently imports the majority of its palm oil from countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. With states like Tripura joining the mission, the goal is to reduce the import burden by ₹20,000 crore annually.
Union Agriculture Ministry officials have praised Tripura for its fast-paced implementation of NMEO-OP targets.
For national policy details, visit the Ministry of Agriculture’s NMEO-OP portal.
Farmers Express Optimism, Seek Long-Term Support
Farmers present at the event expressed cautious optimism. While many see oil palm as a long-term income source, concerns remain over gestation periods and water use.
Ranjit Das, a farmer from Udaipur, said:
“If the government ensures buyback and fair pricing, we are ready to shift from traditional crops. But we need consistent support, especially during the initial years.”
The state agriculture department assured continuous monitoring and on-ground extension support for new cultivators.
Future Steps: Sustainable Expansion
Tripura’s oil palm initiative also emphasizes eco-friendly cultivation, integrating intercropping models with pulses and vegetables to ensure soil health and food security.
Officials from the Gomati district administration have confirmed the development of cluster-based plantation zones, which will help scale operations efficiently and attract agri-investments.
Learn about Tripura’s push for sustainable agro-economy through organic and high-yield models.
Farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs interested in joining the oil palm movement can contact their local horticulture officers or apply via the state’s NMEO-OP portal.
With Tripura stepping forward in the national edible oil mission, the success of oil palm cultivation can reshape the rural economy and reduce India’s oil dependency in the coming years.
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