The concerns around palm oil production are not just an Indian phenomenon but have emerged as an international concern, especially in the southeast Asian region. The cultivation of palm oil began in Asia in the early 19th century and since then it has lacerated the tropical forests.
Why is India expanding palm oil production?
Anticipating the country¡¯s surging demand for vegetable oils, the government has been pushing for the expansion of palm oil production in India. It had launched the National Mission on Oil Seed and Oil Palm (NMOOP) in 2014-15, which was later merged with the National Food Security Mission from 2018-19.
Can small rice fields be converted to palm oil?
Converting small rice fields to palm oil can be a viable alternative to dismantling forests and grasslands for palm oil, says a latest study. It said that exploring and implementing fine-scale local plantation strategies by the government can satisfy the projected national demand for palm oil without threatening high biodiversity landscapes.
What is happening to oil palms?
The recent increase in duties on the import of crude and refined edible oils has resulted in an increase of about ?2,500 on every tonne of an FFB (Fresh Fruit Bunch) of oil palm, bringing cheers to thousands of farmers in the country.