The Arunachal Pradesh government has embarked on a significant plantation initiative for oil palms across the state, commencing on July 29. Over the next fortnight, approximately 700 hectares of land in six districts will be cultivated with oil palms. This extensive effort is part of the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm, aimed at meeting the escalating demand for edible oils in the country.

Participating in this campaign are two major companies, 3F Oil Palm Pvt Ltd and Patanjali Foods Ltd. The state’s Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, tweeted that this mega plantation drive is an endeavor to expand oil palm cultivation under the National Mission for Edible Oils, supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by reducing the burden of oil imports through increased domestic oil palm cultivation.

3F Oil Palm Pvt Ltd is already underway with its first integrated factory in Arunachal Pradesh, with an initial investment of Rs 250 crores. The company acquired 120 acres of land in the Lower Dibang Valley district last year for this project, and the first phase of the factory is scheduled to be operational by September, generating employment opportunities for around 300 individuals.

This drive is expected to bolster the country’s edible oil production and promote self-sufficiency while reducing dependence on imports. With a focus on environmental sustainability and economic growth, Arunachal Pradesh is taking significant strides towards achieving a self-reliant and prosperous India.