Call to Streamline Duties on Oilseeds and Pulses Imports

27-Nov-2025 08:53 PM

New Delhi. India remains the world's leading producer, consumer, and importer of pulses and edible oils, and is also the fifth-largest oilseed economy.

However, domestic production of pulses and oilseeds is falling far short of domestic demand and needs, making India the leading importer of pulses and edible oils.

Although the central government is making serious efforts to increase domestic production of pulses and oilseeds and is implementing numerous schemes and programs, which have yielded some positive results, the gap between demand and supply is so wide that it will take years, not days or months, to bridge it.

The government has set an ambitious target of increasing pulse production in the country to 35 million tonnes by 2030-31, which is 9.4 million tonnes more than the total production of 25.6 million tonnes in the 2024-25 season.

This means that pulse production will need to be increased by 1.9 million tonnes each year over the next five years.

Considering weather and monsoon conditions, market prices, and import duties, this goal appears extremely difficult, if not impossible.

Industry and market analysts believe that if Indian farmers receive all possible support, assistance, and encouragement, they can achieve this goal. They are not lacking in capacity and hard work, but they certainly lack enthusiasm.

According to government data, total domestic oilseed production during the 2024-25 season increased to approximately 43 million tonnes, a positive result of the farmers' hard work.

Despite large imports of cheap pulses and edible oils from abroad and subdued domestic market prices, farmers have made every effort to increase production of pulses and oilseeds.

The government should consider the interests of both consumers and producers when determining import duties on pulses and edible oils.