- IIOPR Scientists Begin Ground Investigation
- Field Visits Include Farmer Interactions
Article Today, Aswaraopet: A Central Team from the Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research (IIOPR) visited Aswaraopeta and Dammapeta mandals on Thursday. Their visit followed directions from Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan after receiving complaints about faulty oil palm saplings and irregular nursery practices.
Field Visits Include Farmer Interactions
Led by senior scientists M.V. Prasad and Ramachandrudu, the team visited oil palm plantations and nurseries. They were joined by Oil Fed OSD Adapa Kiran and other officials. Local farmer leaders, including Oil Palm Growers Association President Umamaheshwar Reddy and secretary Kokkerapati Pullayya, accompanied the team to various farms in the region.
Nursery Quality and Seedling Origin Under Lens
The team is reviewing whether Oil Fed followed proper nursery protocols, such as using certified tenera hybrids and maintaining healthy sapling conditions. Officials were asked to explain the sourcing of seeds, the performance of distributed plants, and if the guidelines laid out by IIOPR were followed at each stage.
Defective Plants and Poor Yields Raise Questions
Farmers have alleged poor growth, uneven plant size, and low yield from distributed seedlings. The inspection team closely examined these claims and directed officials to tag all defective plants and maintain detailed records of each plantation. They also requested layout maps and documentation for review.
Further Investigations to Continue Over 10 Days
Officials from the central team stated that the inquiry will take at least 10 more days. They plan to return for another round of visits. Until then, they have directed Oil Fed to submit additional information and ensure transparency in data collection and reporting.
National Commission Already Conducting Parallel Probe…
Just four days earlier, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes conducted a separate inquiry in Hyderabad. Horticulture Director Yasmin Basha and Oil Fed MD Shankaraiah appeared before the panel, presenting their defense. The Commission has asked for a detailed field report within 30 days.
Officials Struggle to Respond to Mounting Scrutiny
Multiple investigations are now underway, placing Oil Fed under intense pressure. The IIOPR’s inspection adds to the concerns raised in the commission’s inquiry. Senior management in Oil Fed appears to be on the defensive as central teams continue questioning operations.
Minister Tummala’s Vision Meets Internal Resistance
Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao, who hails from the same region, had taken personal interest in promoting oil palm cultivation. Sources say he is upset over the irregularities surfacing in Oil Fed and has sought a full report on the matter.
Government Image at Risk, Say Sources
Minister Tummala reportedly conveyed that the current lapses are bringing disrepute to the government. He has made it clear that oil palm expansion is a flagship initiative, and he will not tolerate any negligence that affects farmers in his region.
Accountability Urged Amid Growing Media Attention
As media reports continue to highlight the issue, Minister Tummala is said to have instructed officials to act swiftly and ensure accountability. The central team’s findings are now eagerly awaited as they could determine further action at both administrative and political levels.
