Chumoukedima, March 20 (MExN): The Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland launched the ‘Mega Oil Palm Plantation Drive’ under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) 2025-26 at Doyapur Council Hall, Chumoukedima on March 20.
SDO (Civil) Dhansiripar, Vejoyo Swuro, said "the initiative would generate employment opportunities for the public" and urged citizens to benefit from such schemes. He said Dhansiripar has fertile land and encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices.
He acknowledged the contribution of farmers to the country’s GDP and assured support from the district administration. He also stressed the need to maintain sufficient food stock and encouraged farmers to take up agriculture as a livelihood.
Delivering the keynote address, DAO Chumoukedima, Moainla Pongen, said "the programme marks the beginning of an economic transformation for the region" and highlighted the need to reduce dependence on imported palm oil.
She stated that India imports nearly 60 percent of its domestic requirement and said the mission aims to create a self-sustaining production system. She informed that the initiative in Nagaland will cover eight districts, focusing on foothill areas suitable for oil palm cultivation.
Addressing concerns, she said oil palm has a better root system and comparatively lower water usage than crops like sugarcane. She added that cultivation will be carried out sustainably, using wastelands and promoting intercropping.
Pongen said the Department has signed MoUs with Godrej Agrovet Ltd and Patanjali Foods to ensure market linkages. She added that Godrej Agrovet plans to establish support infrastructure in the district.
She further said the Government will provide free saplings, ensure remunerative pricing and extend financial and field-level assistance to farmers.
Short speeches were delivered by Senior Officer, GAVL, Dr Benjongtoshi Imchen and Manager (Market Development, GAVL) Muthuselvan. The programme was chaired by SDAO Kevin Solo, with vote of thanks by Agriculture Officer Meciesunu Sakhrie.
