Khawzawl Launches Locally Produced Sunflower Oil Under NMEO-OS
Khawzawl district in Mizoram has taken a step towards edible oil self-sufficiency with the launch of locally produced sunflower oil under the Centre’s National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-OS).
The sunflower oil, extracted from crops cultivated by 120 farmers, was formally launched by Khawzawl Deputy Commissioner K. Vanlalthiana at the District Agriculture Office.
Appreciating the efforts of the District Agriculture Office, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and local farmers, Vanlalthiana said the initiative highlighted the role of innovation and modern farming practices in strengthening the agricultural sector. He encouraged farmers to adopt smart farming techniques and utilise fallow land effectively between cropping seasons.
The Deputy Commissioner said the success of the project should not be judged only by financial returns but also by its contribution to promoting healthier cooking oil options and encouraging agricultural innovation. He expressed hope that sunflower oil production would expand in the coming years.
District Agriculture Officer Lallawmzuali said India currently imports nearly 60 per cent of its edible oil requirements, making increased domestic production a national priority. She added that sunflower cultivation was introduced on a larger scale in Khawzawl last year under NMEO-OS, though irregular rainfall affected crop yields.
During the launch programme, Vanlalthiana also presented awards to the district’s top three sunflower oil producers. Khawlnunpuia of Biate secured the first position with 237 litres of production, followed by R. Lalrualliana with 204 litres and Lalhriatpuia with 149 litres.
The initiative marks a significant move towards promoting local oilseed cultivation and reducing dependence on imported edible oils.
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