Tripura Expands Oil Palm Cultivation to Boost Domestic Edible Oil Supply

Agartala: Tripura has reached a significant milestone in its agricultural expansion, covering more than 3,500 hectares under oil palm cultivation. Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced the progress on Saturday while inaugurating a plantation program in the Gomati district. The initiative aligns with the National Mission on Edible Oils to help India reduce its reliance on foreign imports.

Addressing the current supply gap, Nath noted that domestic production accounts for less than half of national demand. He stated, "India produces only about 47 per cent of its edible oil requirement, while the rest is imported from other countries. A substantial amount of money is spent on these imports."

To accelerate growth, the state is providing free saplings and direct financial support to local farmers. The government currently offers a one-time incentive of Rs 3,000 for clearing land, alongside subsidies of Rs 4,000 per hectare for both terrace construction and fencing. These efforts aim to improve farmer income while capitalizing on the favorable soil and climate conditions found in the region.

Although the central government initially identified 7,000 hectares for cultivation in 2012, progress remained stagnant for years. The current administration has since intensified its focus on the mission, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi views as a key component of national self-reliance. Officials expect that continued expansion of these plantations will strengthen Tripura’s agricultural economy and contribute to overall edible oil self-sufficiency.