MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) & (b): Yes, Madam. The import of edible oils has increased from 47.15 lakh tonnes in
2006-07 to 67.20 lakh tonnes in 2008-09 besides the increase in domestic production of edible
oils from 73.70 lakh tonnes in 2006-07 to 84.56 lakh tonnes in 2008-09 due to increase in
domestic demand/consumption. A statement showing details of demand, net domestic availability
and import of edible oils during the last three years and current year is Annexed (Annexure-I).
(c): The details of yearly average prices of edible oils in the domestic and international
market during the last three years and the current year are Annexed (Annexure-II).
(d): The details of scheme being implemented for achieving self sufficiency in the production
of edible oil are as follows:
(i) A centrally sponsored Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM)
is being implemented in 14 major oilseeds growing States for increasing production. The States
like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat etc. are implementing the Oilpalm
Development Programme under ISOPOM.
(ii) Under the above Scheme, financial assistance is provided for purchase of breeder seed,
production of foundation seed, production and distribution of certified seed, distribution of
seed minikits, distribution of plant protection chemicals, plant protection equipments,
weedicides, gypsum/ pyrite/ lime/ dolomite, distribution of sprinkler sets and water carrying
pipes, training, publicity etc. to encourage farmers to grow these crops. Block demonstrations
and Integrated Pest Management demonstrations are organized through State Department of
Agriculture and ICAR. Budget Expenditure of Rs.320 crores has been kept for 2009-10 for
ISOPOM Scheme.
(iii) Enhanced incentives to farmers through fixation of higher Minimum Support Price (MSP)
of major oilseeds.
(iv) Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is engaged in the development of higher
yielding improved varities, production and protection technologies in oilseeds for increasing
the production and productivity and to make oilseeds cultivation profitable to farmers.
