Leaders of oil palm growers from Mizoram’s Mamit and Kolasib districts met Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati at Raj Bhavan to discuss challenges faced in cultivation and payment issues under the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). During the meeting, the growers highlighted the delay in receiving viability gap payments for the years 2022-2024. This issue has adversely impacted oil palm sellers and hindered the growth of the sector in the state.
Governor Kambhampati emphasized the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in edible oil production, stating that India currently imports the majority of its edible oil requirements. He noted Mizoram’s potential to emerge as a significant producer, likening it to Malaysia in terms of fresh oil palm and oilseed cultivation.
In response to the growers’ concerns, the Governor promptly reached out to central government officials to address the payment delays. He assured the growers of his commitment to resolving the issue and advancing the goals of NMEO-OP in Mizoram.
