India’s heavy dependence on imported edible oils has once again come under focus, with the country reportedly spending around $18.3 billion (approximately ₹1.61 lakh crore) annually on imports to meet domestic demand. The issue has gained renewed attention following recent policy discussions around reducing non-essential consumption and improving self-reliance in key commodities.

India imports an estimated 15–16 million tonnes of edible oil every year, making it one of the world’s largest importers of vegetable oils. Despite having vast agricultural land and a large farming population, domestic production has not kept pace with rising consumption, leading to a significant drain on foreign exchange reserves.

Experts point out that one of the key reasons behind this dependency is farmer preference for more stable and supported crops such as rice and wheat. Oilseeds, on the other hand, are often seen as riskier due to factors such as erratic rainfall, pest attacks, disease vulnerability, and fluctuating market prices, which reduce their attractiveness to cultivators.

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Agricultural scientists and policy experts note that procurement assurance and strong government support systems for rice and wheat further reinforce this imbalance. In contrast, oilseed crops lack similar guaranteed procurement mechanisms, making income less predictable for farmers. As a result, oilseeds are frequently cultivated on marginal lands with lower soil fertility and limited irrigation, leading to reduced yields.

According to Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and former ICAR chief, the situation is shaped by both scientific and policy factors. He noted that while oilseed crops can be economically competitive, structural support for rice and wheat has historically influenced farmer choices.

He added that advancements in agricultural research have produced improved oilseed varieties that are more resilient to pests, diseases, and climate stress. However, ensuring access to high-quality seeds and expanding cultivation beyond marginal lands remain critical challenges for improving productivity and reducing import dependence.

To address these concerns, the government has launched the National Mission on Edible Oilseeds, aimed at increasing domestic production through better seed systems, expanded cultivation, intercropping practices, and technology-driven yield improvements. Experts believe that sustained policy support and improved farm economics will be essential if India is to reduce its reliance on imported edible oils in the long term.

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