Kerala not in favour of import subsidy on edible oil

Protesting the Centre’s decision to provide subsidy for importing edible oil, the Kerala government today said the move would badly hit the coconut farmers in the state.

“This decision to subsidise imported edible oil, including palm oil, is a mortal blow to millions of coconut farmers. The state registers its strong protest at the Centre for taking the decision,” Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan told reporters after a Cabinet meeting.Pointing out that instead of subsidising import of edible oil, the Centre should provide this kind of concession for coconut oil, he said this considered view of the state would be conveyed to the Centre.