India’s agricultural sector achieved a historic milestone with the commencement of operations at the country’s first oil palm processing unit in Arunachal Pradesh. This significant development is part of Mission Palm Oil, driven by the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), aimed at promoting self-reliance in edible oils.
The oil palm processing unit, established by 3F Oil Palm, marks a pivotal step towards enhancing India’s edible oil production capacity. Situated in Roing, lower Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, the factory includes cutting-edge facilities like a palm oil processing and refinery plant, a zero-discharge effluent plant, a palm waste-based power plant, and other support structures.
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 3F Oil Palm Processing Unit, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the development of the Northeast region. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Mission Palm Oil in empowering farmers and boosting farmer income, underscoring the potential of palm oil cultivation in achieving food security.
Managing Director & CEO of 3F Oil Palm Pvt Limited, Mr. Sanjay Goenka, highlighted the critical role of palm oil in ensuring the nation’s food security amidst growing demand for edible oils. He emphasized the company’s investments in the Northeast, totaling ₹100 crores in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam by 2030, creating job opportunities for 1,700 people. Mr. Goenka expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his vision in promoting Mission Palm Oil.
Northeast India offers vast potential for oil palm cultivation, with 1,30,000 hectares of land identified in Arunachal Pradesh alone. Despite this, India heavily relies on imports for palm oil, prompting the introduction of NMEO-Oil Palm Policy to promote domestic cultivation. The implementation of the integrated Oil Palm Processing Unit by 3F Oil Palm is a significant step towards reducing the country’s dependence on imported edible oils.
With a focus on farmer-centric solutions, 3F Oil Palm has introduced innovative initiatives like 3F Akshaya Kendra Farmer Excellence Centres, providing comprehensive support to farmers. The company leverages technology through plantation management software, mobile apps, and drone analytics for crop monitoring, enhancing productivity and ease of operations.
By importing high-quality seeds and providing agricultural inputs to farmers, 3F Oil Palm aims to boost yields and facilitate planting in Arunachal Pradesh. The company plans to expand its operations in the region, targeting an additional 5000 hectares annually over the next five years in the Lower Dibang District.
3F Oil Palm’s commitment to promoting palm oil cultivation in the Northeast reaffirms its dedication to fostering economic development in the region. The inauguration of the oil palm processing unit signifies a significant milestone in India’s journey towards achieving self-sufficiency in edible oils, underscoring the transformative impact of Mission Palm Oil.
