DIMAPUR: Advisor Agriculture and chairman DPDB Wokha, Mhathung Yanthan launched the “Mega Oil Palm Plantation Drive” under the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO OP) 2026 27 at the office of the Sub Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO), Baghty, on September 17.
According to DIPR, addressing farmers and community leaders, Yanthan said the initiative could become a milestone opportunity for sustainable livelihood and long term agricultural solutions through market based enterprises capable of transforming the region’s economy. He noted that while the mission aims to make India self reliant in edible oil and reduce import dependency, it would also empower farmers by raising incomes through active participation.
He emphasised that the State government’s partnership with reputable implementing agencies placed farmers at the centre of the mission. Encouraging diversification, he urged farmers engaged in cash crops such as coffee and rubber to consider oil palm as an additional crop to offset risks from crop failure or environmental stress.
Yanthan assured that once a processing mill is established in Nagaland by Godrej Agrovet, harvested oil palm fruits would be processed within the State, ensuring stable returns, regulated pricing and a guaranteed market.
He added that consultation with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio was underway to earmark 30 acres of land for the project.
Highlighting support measures, he encouraged farmers to avail free quality planting materials, maintenance assistance during the 3-4 year gestation period, financial aid for intercrops, and tools and equipment. Recalling his involvement in introducing rubber cultivation in Wokha, Yanthan expressed satisfaction that the district had grown into one of Nagaland’s leading rubber producers, transforming lives over three decades.
He also thanked the Chief Minister for approving two additional SDAO offices in Wokha district-at Sanis and Ralan-to strengthen agricultural support and services.
Delivering the keynote, Ronchamo Kikon, deputy director Agriculture, said Nagaland has set a long term target of 15,000 hectares for oil palm cultivation, focusing on fertile foothills and cultivable wastelands under rain fed conditions to avoid disturbing primary forests. He cautioned farmers against negative campaigns lacking scientific evidence.
Dr. Benjongtoshi Imchen, Senior Officer, Godrej Agrovet (GAVL) Nagaland, presented on the scope and marketing potential of oil palm cultivation, highlighting goals, financial incentives, subsidies, and farmer empowerment.
Other speakers included Muthuselvan, Manager GAVL Nagaland; Agriculture Officers Chumyani Ovung and L. Subenthung Humtsoe; Nyanbeni Erui, Woman Pastor BTBC; John Murry, president Lotha Middle Range Public Organisation; and Pukhutu Chopy, Head GB Mithihe Village Northern Sumi Area.
Later, Yanthan paid a “Farmers Centred Tribute” on the 76th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by planting an oil palm sapling at the SDAO office premises. The programme was chaired by Longshithung Odyuo, SDAO Baghty.
