INVC NEWS
New Delhi : n a bid to counter the escalating prices of pulses, the Central Government has taken a decisive step by opting to import 20 thousand tonnes of urad dal from Brazil. This strategic move aims to alleviate concerns surrounding the affordability of essential food commodities for the vast population of 1.4 billion in India. Union Consumer Affairs Secretary, Rohit Kumar Singh, made this announcement during the Global Pulse Confederation conference in New Delhi, highlighting the imperative to ensure accessible food supplies amidst the country’s predominantly vegetarian dietary preferences and rising income levels.
Meeting the Growing Demand
With an increasing emphasis on protein-rich diets and a burgeoning population, India finds itself compelled to explore diverse avenues to meet the surging demand for pulses. Last year alone, India imported a staggering 3.1 million tonnes of pulses, with a significant portion originating from Canada and Australia. However, in a bid to reduce dependency on a handful of suppliers, India is seeking to diversify its sources by considering production possibilities in countries such as Brazil and Argentina.
India’s Pulse Production Dominance
Despite being the global leader in both pulse production and consumption, with an annual output of approximately 28 million tonnes, India encounters challenges in solely relying on domestic production to meet its consumption needs. Hence, the import of pulses has emerged as a critical component of India’s food security strategy. By tapping into the resources of countries like Brazil renowned for their agricultural prowess, India aims to stabilize prices and ensure a consistent supply of essential commodities.
Significance of Urad Dal
Urad dal, also known as black gram, holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Indian cuisine. Renowned for its rich protein content and versatility, urad dal features prominently in various traditional dishes such as dal makhani, idlis, and vadas. Its nutritional value and widespread usage make it indispensable in Indian households, underscoring the necessity of securing a steady supply to meet consumer demand and maintain culinary traditions.
Addressing Economic Imperatives
Beyond catering to dietary requirements, the import of urad dal from Brazil holds economic significance for Indian farmers. By diversifying import sources, the government aims to provide farmers with enhanced market opportunities and stabilize prices, thereby fostering economic growth in the agricultural sector. Moreover, such initiatives bolster international trade relations and pave the way for collaboration in agricultural research and technology exchange between nations.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
In an era marked by environmental concerns and climate change, sustainable agriculture practices take center stage. The partnership between India and Brazil in importing urad dal underscores the importance of adopting sustainable farming methods to ensure long-term agricultural viability. Leveraging Brazil’s expertise in sustainable agriculture, India stands to gain valuable insights that can contribute to enhancing agricultural productivity while mitigating environmental impact.
