Karnataka-based edible oil and food company MK Agrotech and M11 Industries have announced the launch of oil palm plantation programme in Odisha. The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Odisha government under the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP).

The oil palm plantation programme has been launched in Nuapada and Bolangir districts. By 2029-30, an palm oil mill with fresh fruit bunch processing capacity of 10 tonne per hour initially is planned to come up in the state. This will be accompanied by training, technical support and capacity building along with assistance for nurseries and supply of quality planting materials to farmers.

The plan includes a cluster approach and developing a few model farming plots with the farmers in these districts. Thus, partnering with the government in the implementation of NMEO-OP in Odisha would maximise the benefits for farmers and other stakeholders.

MK Agrotech aligns with the vision of ‘Make in India’ and self-sufficiency in edible oil production. It is a less labour-intensive crop and could provide an assured net annual income of Rs 1.5 lakh per hectare per year or more to farmers, once the plantation is matured. 

The criteria for an oil palm plantation is at least half a hectare of land and assured water availability throughout the year for irrigating the crop.