Godrej Agrovet Limited, a leading name in India’s oil palm processing sector, showcased its commitment to sustainability at the “Palm Oil – Transforming Perceptions for Health and Nutrition” conference in Indore. Co-hosted by Solidaridad, Asian Palm Oil Alliance, and SEA, the event highlighted the pivotal role of palm oil in India’s edible oil landscape.
Attendees, including nutritionists, scientists, medical professionals, and industry giants like Adani-Wilmar, convened to explore the nutritional benefits of palm oil, such as its potential to enhance heart and brain health, antioxidant properties, and support for eye health. With palm oil constituting over 38% of India’s total edible oil consumption, discussions centered on expanding cultivation to meet rising domestic demand.Plans were unveiled to expand India’s oil palm cultivation by 0.6 million hectares by 2025-26, aiming to boost crude palm oil production to 1.12 million tonnes by 2025-26 and 2.8 million tonnes by 2029-30. This initiative aligns with the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm, a crucial step towards reducing edible oil imports and achieving self-sufficiency.
Sougata Niyogi, CEO of Oil Palm Business at Godrej Agrovet Ltd, emphasized, “Oil palm’s high yield potential and minimal water requirement make it a sustainable choice, ensuring long-term income for farmers.”Atul Chaturvedi, Chairman of the Asian Palm Oil Alliance, stressed the seminar’s role in dispelling myths about palm oil, crucial for India’s economic growth and agricultural sustainability.The summit concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable practices, setting the stage for a more informed and resilient palm oil sector in India.In Guwahati, the market for palm oil continues to expand alongside national trends, with increasing adoption driven by its nutritional benefits and versatile applications in both food and non-food industries.