The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) has called for increased funding for domestic oilseed production to achieve self-sufficiency. They also expressed disappointment that import duties on cooking oils were not raised in the recent budget. SEA President Ajay Jhunjhunwala highlighted various initiatives and concerns regarding the industry.
The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) urged the government to allocate sufficient funds to boost domestic oilseed production and attain self-sufficiency. In the recent budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized enhancing the production, storage, and marketing of pulses and oilseeds as part of achieving 'atmanirbharta'.
SEA President Ajay Jhunjhunwala lauded the government for announcing the 'National Mission for Edible Oils', which focuses on key oilseeds. This initiative covers research for high-yielding varieties, modern farming techniques, market linkages, crop insurance, and other critical aspects. However, he expressed disappointment over the lack of increased import duties on cooking oils.
Jhunjhunwala stressed that the domestic refining industry suffers due to heavy imports of refined edible oils, contrary to the 'Make in India' agenda. He welcomed the government's decision to review agricultural research to enhance productivity and develop climate-resilient varieties, along with the upcoming digital crop survey covering 6 crore farmers across 400 districts.
