Telangana oil palm farmers hit by genetically defective seedlings

Oil palm farmers in Telangana are reeling from massive losses after being supplied genetically defective seedlings, allegedly by TG OIL FED. With plantations failing to bear fruit, cultivators demand urgent intervention, compensation, and accountability to safeguard the future of oil palm cultivation

Hyderabad: Oil palm farmers across Telangana are facing a crisis with genetically defective seedlings casting a shadow on their hopes. Hundreds of acres may turn barren, threatening their livelihoods.

From Bhadradri Kothagudem to Narayanpet and Gadwal districts, farmers have experienced this harsh reality, with the severity of the impact varying in intensity. After investing years of labour and lakhs of rupees into oil palm cultivation, the setback has come as a rude shock.

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The genetically defective seedlings were allegedly supplied by the Telangana Cooperative Oilseeds Growers Federation Ltd (TG OIL FED). Many farmers planted oil palm seedlings between 2016 and 2018, expecting high yields after the standard 5 to 7 year maturity period. Instead, over 30 to 50 per cent of the plantations have failed to bear fruit.

The plants, described as “curling” or “half type,” show clear signs of genetic defects. Farmers in Narayanpet and Gadwal districts are seriously worried about the situation. Many say they were supplied with substandard seedlings from TG OIL FED nurseries, which failed to follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) laid out by the Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research (IIOPR).

Imported seeds were not tested for genetic quality, and batches with over 25 per cent curling plants, which should have been destroyed, were instead sold to unsuspecting farmers. Even replanting is not a viable option, as defective trees already occupy the land, making interplanting impossible.

One such case is that of Puchakayala Somireddy from Khammam, who planted 700 saplings across 12 acres. After seven years, nearly 500 plants were found defective. Despite an official inquiry confirming the issue, he has received no compensation and is still fighting a legal battle.

Farmers allege that quality seedlings were diverted to private companies in Andhra Pradesh, while defective ones were mixed into local supplies. Lorries carrying seedlings were reportedly intercepted by farmers in Jangaon, leading to police complaints.

Despite repeated appeals to TG OIL FED, the Horticulture Department, and the Ministry of Agriculture, no concrete action has been taken. Farmers feel abandoned, with no technical support or financial relief. The lack of accountability has caused massive losses and discouraged new farmers from entering oil palm cultivation, threatening the future of the crop in Telangana.

Farmers are now demanding urgent intervention from the Centre to investigate the supply chain, compensate affected cultivators, and restore trust in the system.