India's first oil palm processing unit commences operations in Arunachal Pradesh

Roing: Arunachal Pradesh's first commercial oil palm processing unit by 3F Oil Palm has commenced operations to elevate domestic edible oil production while reducing imports, in accordance with the national policy. The unit is India’s first integrated oil palm processing unit by 3F Oil Palm.

The factory in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley boasts a cutting-edge processing capacity of 10 metric tons per hour., noted a release. The state-of-the-art facility will efficiently process fresh fruit bunches (FFBs) into premium-quality palm oil.

"With investments exceeding Rs 100 crores already deployed in the region and plans for an additional Rs 1100 crores by 2030, the venture is projected to generate employment for 1,700 individuals", Sanjay Goenka, the Managing Director & CEO of 3F Oil Palm Pvt Limited said. 

"This landmark initiative not only positions Arunachal Pradesh as a frontrunner in the nation's Oil Palm landscape but also underscores India's stride towards Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in edible oils", Goenka said. He added, “With the ever-increasing demand for edible oils, palm oil has become an important component to ensure food security of the nation."

Arunachal Pradesh, with its vast expanse of suitable land spanning 1,30,000 hectares for Oil Palm cultivation, holds immense promise for the sector. However, only a fraction of this potential has been tapped, underscoring the untapped opportunities within the region. The commencement of operations by 3F Oil Palm promises to harness this potential, aiming to add 5000 hectares each year over the ensuing five years in the Lower Dibang District alone.

With 2,500 hectares of oil palm being planted across a farmer base of 500 farmers, 3F Oil Palm Pvt Ltd is considered a pioneer in Arunachal Pradesh’s oil palm development program. In Arunachal Pradesh, 3F Oil Palm has initiated the import of hybrid variety seed sprouts from international suppliers for the first time and is providing agricultural inputs directly to farmers. 3F Oil Palm aims to expand its operations by adding 5000 hectares annually over five years in the Lower Dibang District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Apart from Arunachal Pradesh, 3F has established a strong presence in states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Assam. Last year, the Assam government set a target of 3.75 lakh hectares under oil palm cultivation.

Meanwhile, the opposition has raised concerns over these mega plantation drives as rainforests and biodiversity hotspots could be affected.

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