MK Agrotech and M11 Industries Ink MoU with Odisha for Oil Palm Plantations Program

MK Agrotech, a Karnataka-based edible oil and food company, along with M11 Industries, has announced the initiation of an oil palm plantation program in Odisha. The companies formalized this commitment by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Odisha under the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP).

The oil palm plantation initiative has been rolled out in Nuapada and Bolangir districts, with 31 farmers already participating. The long-term plan, set for 2029-30, involves establishing a palm oil mill in the state, equipped with a fresh fruit bunch processing capacity of 10 tonnes per hour initially. The program will include comprehensive support such as training, technical assistance, capacity building, and aiding in the establishment of nurseries. Additionally, the companies will supply quality planting materials to farmers, according to a joint statement.

Mannan Khan, Director of MK Agrotech, expressed the company's commitment to the 'Make in India' vision and self-sufficiency in edible oil production. He highlighted the collaboration with the Odisha government in implementing NMEO-OP as a long-term commitment towards building an inclusive Indian economy that benefits farmers and other stakeholders.

Nasim Ali, Adviser to MK Agrotech, outlined the plan to adopt a cluster approach, developing model farming plots with farmers in Bolangir and Nuapada districts. Oil palm plantation requires a minimum of half a hectare of land and assured water availability throughout the year for irrigation. Ali emphasized the crop's less labor-intensive nature and its potential to provide an assured net annual income of ₹1.5 lakh per hectare per year or more to farmers once the plantation matures. To address the need for greater awareness, campaigns are underway, especially at the village level, with support from various local government authorities.

HBL