Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds). This significant initiative is aimed at enhancing domestic oilseed production and achieving self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in edible oils. Implemented from 2024-25 to 2030-31, the mission has a financial outlay of Rs 10,103 crore.
The NMEO-Oilseeds focuses on increasing the production of primary oilseed crops such as rapeseed-mustard, groundnut, soybean, sunflower, and sesamum. It also aims to boost oil extraction from secondary sources like cottonseed, rice bran, and tree-borne oils. The goal is to raise primary oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. Together with the Oil Palm mission, domestic edible oil production is expected to reach 25.45 million tonnes by 2030-31, fulfilling 72% of India's projected needs.
Key strategies include the promotion of high-yielding seed varieties, extending cultivation into rice fallow areas, and promoting intercropping. The mission will leverage advanced global technologies, including genome editing, to develop high-quality seeds. An Online 5-year rolling seed plan, accessible through the ‘SATHI’ portal, will streamline seed distribution.
To support these efforts, 65 new seed hubs and 50 storage units will be established, alongside the development of over 600 value chain clusters across 347 districts. These clusters will cover over 10 lakh hectares annually and provide farmers with access to quality seeds, training, and advisory services.
Moreover, the mission aims to expand oilseed cultivation by an additional 40 lakh hectares, targeting rice and potato fallow lands. Post-harvest facilities will be upgraded, and an awareness campaign will promote recommended dietary guidelines for edible oils.
NMEO-Oilseeds represents a significant step towards self-sufficiency and sustainability in India's edible oil industry, aiming to reduce import reliance, increase farmer incomes, and enhance soil health.
