What is the history of palm oil cultivation in Odisha?
In 1992-93 palm oil cultivation began under the Integrated Scheme for Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize ( ISOPOM) scheme of the Odisha government. It was initiated on 1,971 ha of which 250 ha was in Rayagada district, the cultivators and sole beneficiaries included those who had acquired tribal lands, the big farmers, and the companies.
Why is oil palm important?
Oil palm occupies small areas compared to other oil seeds but contributes half for global consumption. In the short term, sufficient amount of edible oil to meet the national demand can come from maximizing sesame export and production of sunflower, groundnut and soybean as raw material for local industries.
Where is edible oil grown?
Despite the revenue from export, 90% of the national demand of edible oil is imported. Among oilseeds, groundnut, sunflower and soybean are the choice of cultivation both in high rainfall Western lowlands and irrigated areas of Awash, Omo and Wabe Shebelle and Dawa Genale valleys.