New Delhi: NITI Aayog’s report released on Thursday, titled ‘Strategies and Pathways for Accelerating Growth in Pulses towards the Goal of Atmanirbharta,’ is both relevant and significant today. It investigates the current state of the pulse sector in India and its future prospects. The report indicates a consistent increase in pulse production within the country. Notably, India stands as the largest producer and consumer of pulses globally. Pulses play a crucial role in the Indian diet, providing an economical and sustainable source of plant-based protein along with essential micronutrients. They are also abundant in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing positively to both human and animal health.
The importance of this report is underscored by its role in supporting the livelihoods of over five crore farmers and their families, making the sector crucial to rural economies and the Atmanirbharta vision. Moreover, the Union Budget for 2025-26 announced a six-year initiative called the ‘Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses,’ specifically targeting Tur, Urad, and Masoor. To address challenges such as crop shortfalls and price fluctuations, the government maintains a buffer stock of key pulses like Tur, Urad, Chana, Moong, and Masur as part of the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) for market interventions. Consequently, pulses are procured and stored for controlled release to satisfy market demands.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution on April 1, the government has approximately 15.75 LMT of major pulses in stock. Additionally, to enhance domestic pulse availability and manage price volatility, duty-free imports of Tur and Urad have been permitted until March 31, 2026. In its First Report Demands for Grants (2024-25), presented in December 2024, the Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing noted a rise in pulse production from 198 lakh tonnes in 2013-14 to 242.46 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. However, actual production for 2023-24 fell about 50.04 LMT short of the target for that year.
India imported 47.39 LMT of pulses to bolster stock levels, while exports reached approximately 6 LMT. According to the government’s third advance estimates for 2024-25, production is projected to be around 252.38 LMT, compared to a target of 299 LMT.