Question : DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF EDIBLE OIL

(a) whether there is a wide gap in the production and demand of edible oil in the country leading to shortage and rise in its prices;

(b) if so, the details thereof indicating the production, demand, import and price of edible oil during each of the last three years and the current year alongwith the foreign exchange spent thereon;

(c) the details of the other contributory factors for the rise in price of edible oil;

(d) whether the Government proposes to import more edible oil during the current year;

(e) if so, the details thereof indicating the quantum, import price and the country from which it is proposed to be imported; and

(f) the steps taken by the Government to encourage domestic production of edible oil in the country?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a)&(b): Yes Madam, there is a wide gap in the production and demand of edible oil in the country and imports are being resorted to, to bridge the gap. However, the prices of edible oils in the domestic market have declined as compared to that in the last two years. The details of production, demand,import and prices of edible oils are Annexed.

(c): Increase in the prices of edible oils in the international market and increase in demand contribute to rise in price of edible oils.

(d): No, Madam.

(e): Does not arise.

(f): The steps taken by Government to encourage domestic production of edible oil in the country are:

(i) A Centrally Sponsored Integrated Scheme for Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM) is being implemented in 14 major oilseeds growing states for increasing production. Under the above scheme financial assistance is provided for purchase 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.

(ii) Enhanced incentives to the farmers through fixation of higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) of major oilseeds.

(iii) Research for development of higher yielding improved varieties and production and protection technologies in oilseeds.