Oil Palm Farmers Voice Concerns Over Delayed Payments and Crop Damage in AAPOPFA Meeting

Itanagar, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: Oil palm farmers from ten districts convened during the second central executive meeting of the All Oil Palm Farmers Association (AAPOPFA) in Lower Dibang Valley district on Saturday. They raised significant concerns regarding delayed payments, insufficient collection centres, and crop damage caused by wild animals, among other pressing issues affecting growers.

Representatives from Pakke Kessang, Papum Pare, Kamle, East Siang, Lower Dibang Valley, Lohit, Namsai, Lower Siang, Tirap, and Changlang discussed various grievances, the functioning of the organization, the mobilization of funds, and issues involving growers, the agriculture department, and oil palm companies. The oil palm industry has been gaining traction in India, particularly in the northeastern states, due to its potential to enhance local economies and provide sustainable livelihoods. However, this growth has not come without challenges, as highlighted by the farmers during the meeting.

One of the key topics was the gestation period applicable to newly enrolled farmers, alongside discussions on legal and regulatory matters related to oil palm cultivation. The gestation period for oil palm trees can extend several years before they start yielding fruit, which places a significant burden on new farmers who may not have immediate returns on their investments. This delay can lead to financial strain, especially for smallholder farmers who rely on timely income to sustain their households.

The farmers expressed their frustrations over transportation difficulties stemming from an inadequate number of collection centres. The lack of proper infrastructure for collecting fresh fruit bunches not only complicates logistics but also contributes to the loss of produce, as fruits may spoil if not collected promptly. The situation is exacerbated by damage to plantations caused by wild animals, which poses a direct threat to the livelihood of farmers. This issue highlights the need for effective wildlife management strategies to protect crops while ensuring the conservation of local biodiversity.

Moreover, the adverse effects of excessive fertilizer use were also a concern raised during the meeting. While fertilizers are essential for boosting crop yields, the over-reliance on chemical fertilizers can lead to soil degradation and environmental pollution, which may ultimately harm the long-term sustainability of oil palm cultivation. Farmers urged for guidance on sustainable agricultural practices that could mitigate these negative impacts while enhancing productivity.

Delays in payments for fresh fruit bunches emerged as another critical issue. Timely payments are vital for farmers to manage their finances effectively, purchase necessary inputs, and invest in their farms. The farmers called for greater accountability and transparency in AAPOPFA’s financial management at both district and state levels. They demanded responsible handling of funds and clearer financial transactions to safeguard their interests. This call for transparency is indicative of a broader demand among agricultural producers for fair and equitable treatment in the supply chain, which can often be marred by inefficiencies and lack of oversight.

Furthermore, the farmers sought a transparent mechanism for resolving grievances and ensuring timely assistance and payments to farmers. The attendees resolved to address all concerns of oil palm growers across the state, emphasizing the need for a unified voice in advocating for their rights and interests. The establishment of a grievance redressal system could empower farmers and foster a more cooperative relationship between them and the various stakeholders involved in the oil palm sector.

State president Hormin Camdir Teli alleged financial irregularities involving some office-bearers. He claimed that certain executives had engaged in unauthorized transactions with their respective district agriculture officers, resulting in only a portion of the intended funds reaching farmers. This situation, he noted, could not be independently verified. Allegations of financial mismanagement within organizations like AAPOPFA can undermine trust among farmers and hinder the collective efforts to address the challenges they face. It is crucial for the association to address these allegations transparently to restore confidence among its members and ensure that funds are utilized effectively for the benefit of all farmers.

The implications of these issues are profound, as they not only affect the livelihoods of farmers but also the overall growth of the oil palm industry in the region. The government and relevant authorities must take note of these concerns and work collaboratively with farmers to develop solutions that enhance productivity while ensuring fair treatment and sustainable practices. As the demand for palm oil continues to rise globally, addressing these local challenges will be essential for the long-term viability of oil palm farming in the region.