INVC NEWS
Mumbai : Despite several measures taken by the government to encourage farmers, India’s dependence on imported pulses remains. We still have to import large quantities of pulse products to meet domestic needs. According to estimated data, import of pulses almost doubled in the financial year 2023-24 and reached $3.74 billion. Although official figures are still to come, shipments show that about 45 lakh tonnes of pulses were imported. Last year this figure was 24.5 lakh tonnes.
To meet the demand of pulses in the domestic market and keep the prices stable, the Center is negotiating long-term agreements with new markets like Brazil and Argentina. 20,000 tonnes of urad is to be imported from Brazil while negotiations for the import of pigeon pea from Argentina are almost at the final stage.
The government has also approached Mozambique, Tanzania and Myanmar for import of pulses. The increase in import of pulses in recent times will increase the supply in the domestic market, due to which prices may remain stable. Earlier, the government has made the import of yellow peas duty free till June. At the same time, import of pigeon pea and urad has been made duty free till 31 March 2025.
The process of general elections has started in the country, hence it is a matter of great concern for the government that the prices of pulses should not increase. To control prices, a limit has been fixed for the stock of pulses on April 15 (Monday). The government has also asked the states to be alert to stop hoarding.
