Likely Halt on Sale of Government Pulse Stocks
28-Jul-2026 11:27 AM
New Delhi: Acting on a specific request and suggestion from the Union Department of Consumer Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture is likely to direct its subordinate agency to halt the sale of pulses in the open market. Notably, the Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs had written to the Agriculture Ministry urging a suspension of these sales.
The letter highlighted that the impact of El Niño—causing deficient and erratic monsoon rainfall—has led to a reduction in the sowing area for Kharif pulse crops, raising the likelihood of lower production. Under these circumstances, a shortage of pulses could arise in the country in the coming months; therefore, government agencies should currently halt stock sales so that the reserves can be utilized during times of scarcity.
The letter suggested temporarily stopping the open market sale of Tur (pigeon pea) and Chana (gram) procured under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). Government agencies had previously procured large quantities of Tur (during the 2025-26 Kharif season) and Chana (during the Rabi season) from farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and subsequently initiated regular sales in the open market. This strategy had ensured a smooth supply and availability of pulses, preventing any sharp spike in prices.
However, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs apprehends a potential decline in pulse production during the Kharif season. Consequently, it has suggested that the Agriculture Ministry consider halting sales until a clear picture of production for the 2026-27 Kharif and Rabi seasons emerges.
It is estimated that the central buffer stock currently holds approximately 20 lakh tonnes of Chana and 7–8 lakh tonnes of Tur; preserving these stocks would significantly aid in stabilizing the market in the coming months. The Agriculture Ministry is reportedly giving serious consideration to this letter and may take a positive decision in the near future by acceding to the Department of Consumer Affairs' request.