Economic importance of oilseeds:
(i) India has largest area and production of oilseeds.
The major oilseeds occupy 14% of the rest sown area. Edible oils form a vital part of our diet and the oilseeds are also used to make paints, varnishes, soaps, cosmetic items, medicinal items, lubricants, perfumes etc. Oil cake forms an important part of the cattle feed and manure.
(ii) Oil industry employs millions of people where oil extraction is done manually.