India's Pulses Import and Bharat Dal Initiative: A Closer Look

India imported 11.32 lakh tonnes of pulses between April-May 2024 to meet domestic demand, with a total of 47.39 lakh tonnes imported in fiscal year 2023-24. The government launched Bharat Dal initiatives converting chana, moong, and masur stocks into affordable dals for consumers, stabilizing market prices.

India has imported 11.32 lakh tonnes of pulses during April-May 2024 to satisfy domestic demand, the government disclosed to Parliament on Wednesday. This move follows the importation of 47.39 lakh tonnes in the entire 2023-24 fiscal year.

Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya stated in a written reply to the Lok Sabha that specific pulses such as tur, urad, and masur must be imported due to consumer preferences. Despite adequate domestic production, imports remain essential for these varieties.

The government has maintained a buffer stock of pulses and onions under the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) to stabilize volatile prices. The Bharat Dal initiative, launched in July 2023, converts chana stock into chana dal, sold at subsidized rates to make it more affordable for consumers. This initiative has extended to include moong and masur dals, which are also sold at reduced prices.

(With inputs from agencies.)