Question : DIVERSION OF CULTIVATION FROM FOODGRAINS TO OILSEEDS



(a) whether the Government propose to divert the area from foodgrains cultivation to oilseeds;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken to increase the oilseed production in view of its acute shortage?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)

(a): No, Sir.

(b): Does not arise.

(c): For increasing the production of oilseeds, a Centrally Sponsored Oilseeds Production Programme (OPP) is under implementation in 28 States covering 408 selected districts. Under the scheme financial assistance is provided on various inputs like production and distribution of seeds, distribution of seed minikits, distribution of improved farm implements, sprinkler sets, rhyzobium culture and micro-nutrients etc. Further, in order to disseminate the production technology amongst the farmers frontline demonstrations by the ICAR and block demonstrations by the State Departments of Agriculture are also organized.