The Hindu Business Line : Oilseeds output pegged at 197 lakh t

"It is too early to estimate the production of rabi crop this year as sowing has yet to begun and it will depend on the rains and weather. However, I have ventured to estimate rabi crops," said Mr G.G. Patel, former president of the Solvent Extractors Association of India.

On the other hand, kharif oilseeds crop is estimated to be around 111 lakh tonnes for the next season (2004-05) against the previous season's figure of 125 lakh tonnes..

Speaking on `Overview of kharif oilseeds crop in India and prospects for rabi' at the 33rd annual general meeting of the Solvent Extractors Association of India held here, Mr Patel, said: "During 2003-04, we were very much fortunate to get satisfactory, timely, widespread rains and excellent weather but this year, it has not been so. Sowing in most States did not take place in time and was spread in different phases.''

The dry weather in July and insufficient rain in September has taken its toll and has affected the yields badly, he said.

Mr D.P. Khandelia, President of the association, said that overall, 2003-04 was generally one of growth and great cheer for the economy.

Record oilseeds production, comfortable supplies of raw material and attractive price for oil meals meant revival of the industry's fortunes.

It was a win-win situation for all the stakeholders - farmers, processors and exporters.

Encouraged by remunerative prices for the produce, farmers have increased the acreage under oilseed cultivation by around 13 per cent in the kharif season of 2004.

However, rainfall so far has been slightly below normal. Hence, oilseeds production may be around 210-220 lakh tonnes during 2004-05.

The Government's decision to increase the rate of Customs duty on imported refined palm production to 75 per cent from 70 per cent ad valorem will prove beneficial to the industry.