Government Procurement Expected to Support Pulses Market

26-Mar-2026 12:32 PM

New Delhi: Although the arrival of new rabi crop supplies of the two major pulses—chickpea (chana) and lentil (masoor)—has increased and put pressure on prices, the start of government procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) is expected to halt the decline in prices. The abnormal situation in West Asia may also affect imports of pulses.

According to a leading analyst, higher shipping charges and the sharp depreciation of the Indian rupee have made imports of chickpeas and lentils more expensive. The higher prices of imported pulses are likely to have a positive impact on domestic chickpea and lentil prices. Meanwhile, the government has started procurement of both pulses through its agencies. Government procurement of tur (pigeon pea) is also ongoing. This indicates that pulse prices may not fall further. The recent price decline had increased concerns among farmers.

It is true that due to the March closing, the participation of dal millers, processors, traders, and stockists in pulse purchases is currently limited. However, this situation may change soon, and from next month, April, trading activity in pulses could pick up significantly. This may also bring some firmness to the market.

The central government has fixed the MSP for the 2025–26 rabi season at ₹5,875 per quintal for chickpeas and ₹7,000 per quintal for lentils. Wholesale market prices may approach these levels in the coming period. The Agriculture Ministry has estimated higher production of both pulses compared to the 2024–25 season, and arrivals in mandis have already started increasing.