look news india
The reason for the government's concern is that despite taking several measures to encourage farmers, the production of pulses has declined in the last two-three years. This has increased dependence on imports. According to the estimates of the Agriculture Ministry, the production of pulses this year could be 234 lakh tonnes. Last year 261 lakh tonnes of pulses were produced.
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 our domestic needs. According to estimated data, imports of pulses will almost double to $3.74 billion in fiscal year 2023-24. Although official figures are yet to come, shipments show that around 45 lakh tonnes of pulses were imported. Last year this figure was 24.5 lakh tonnes.
Government sources told ANI that the Center is negotiating long-term agreements with new markets like Brazil and Argentina to meet the demand for pulses in the domestic market and keep prices stable. 20,000 tonnes of urad is to be imported from Brazil while talks are in the final stages to import pigeon pea from Argentina. The government has also approached Mozambique, Tanzania and Myanmar for import of beans. The recent increase in imports of pulses will increase supplies in the domestic market, which may stabilize prices.
Earlier, the government has made the import of yellow peas duty free till June. Whereas the 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 the increase in the prices of pulses is a matter of concern for the government. To control prices, a limit on the stock of pulses has been fixed on April 15 (Monday). The government has also asked the states to be alert to stop hoarding.
The reason for the government's concern is that despite taking several measures to encourage farmers, the production of pulses has declined in the last two-three years. According to the estimates of the Agriculture Ministry, the production of pulses this year could be 234 lakh tonnes. Last year 261 lakh tonnes of pulses were produced.