Tree-Borne Oilseed Cultivation: Research Gaps and Future Perspective

Abstract

Tree-borne oilseeds (TBOs) are emerging as a pivotal resource for sustainable oil production, biodiesel, and industrial applications, offering a promising alternative to conventional sources. However, despite their potential, TBOs face significant challenges that hinder their widespread adoption, primarily related to seed quality and availability. With the rising domestic demand for edible oils and energy, India’s reliance on imports has become increasingly pronounced, emphasizing the need to explore and enhance alternative domestic sources such as TBOs. TBOs are distributed across various ecological zones, yet their scattered distribution, suboptimal collection practices, and low-quality seeds present substantial barriers. Compounded by climate change, overexploitation, and inadequate infrastructure for storage and collection, these challenges restrict the effective utilization of TBOs. Expanding TBO cultivation beyond forested areas through agroforestry and reforestation is essential to meet the growing demand for oilseeds. However, the lack of high-quality planting material remains a critical impediment. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of TBOs, with a focus on technological insights and future perspective. It examines significant TBO species in India, highlights research efforts by various ICFRE institutes aimed at TBO improvement, and assesses the status of seed testing and certification both nationally and globally. The paper identifies key challenges and explores potential solutions, offering strategic recommendations for advancing TBO cultivation. By addressing these issues, the review aims to support policy advocacy efforts to enhance TBO production, reduce import dependency, and contribute to sustainable development in the sector.