The National Level Monitoring Team (NALMOT) has proposed a series of comprehensive monitoring visits across implementing states to proactively address emerging challenges and ensure the effective achievement of the objectives outlined in the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). This initiative aims to enhance the cultivation of oil palm and support farmers in realizing its benefits.
On April 15, 2025, a detailed inspection was conducted in this context, where the team visited the second oil palm field belonging to Sri K. Sudershan Reddy. The field, which spans an area of 12.5 acres, incorporates innovative farming practices, including the integration of papaya and tomato as intercrops alongside the oil palm. This strategic approach not only maximizes land usage but also provides additional revenue streams for farmers. The field is situated in Gattupally village, Maheswaram mandal, Ranga Reddy District, an area known for its agricultural potential.
The NALMOT team for Telangana consisted of distinguished members including Dr. K. Ponnusamy, the Director of the Directorate of Oilseeds Development in Hyderabad; Dr. G. Vijaya Krishna, a senior scientist and Head of the Horticultural Research Station (HRS) in Aswaraopet; and Smt. Sarojini, the Additional Director of Horticulture focusing on oil palm initiatives. The team also included various officials from the Directorate of Oilseeds Development, the Additional Director of Horticulture, the District Horticulture and Sericulture Officer (DHSO), and the Assistant Director of Horticulture (ADH) for the Ranga Reddy District. Additionally, staff members from Value Oil and Gas Services Pvt. Ltd., including Vice President Rama Mohan Rao, participated in the visit, bringing valuable expertise to the assessment.
During the visit, local farmers expressed a strong enthusiasm for adopting oil palm cultivation, indicating a growing recognition of the crop’s potential benefits, such as improved income, sustainable agricultural practices, and contributions to local employment. They appreciated the support extended under the NMEO-OP framework, which aims to empower farmers through training, resources, and access to markets, demonstrating a positive outlook towards the future of oil palm agriculture in the region.