★ The Government of India is taking precautionary measures to ensure adequate availability of pulses amid uncertainties surrounding the ongoing Kharif season. The Department of Consumer Affairs has urged the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DAFW) to consider relaxing the 9-month stock disposal norm under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) to preserve buffer stocks of pulses in view of possible weather-related production risks. 

★ According to the Department, preliminary assessments indicate that emerging El Niño-related weather uncertainties could affect crop acreage and productivity in some regions. While the overall impact on production is still unclear, maintaining sufficient pulse stocks is considered essential to meet any potential supply shortfall and protect consumers from price volatility. 

★ The government has already transferred 0.3 million tonnes (LMT) of Tur, 0.5 million tonnes (5 LMT) of Chana, and 0.05 million tonnes (0.50 LMT) of Urad, with a total MSP value of ₹5,882.50 crore, from the PSS to the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) buffer during the current year. However, the Department noted that further transfers may be difficult due to funding constraints. 

★ The Department has also suggested reviewing the disposal of pulses through the Open Market Sale (OMS) scheme and procurement decisions under the PSS in light of the evolving climatic situation. It has specifically recommended relaxing the 9-month disposal norm for Kharif 2025-26 Tur and Rabi 2026 Chana stocks, enabling NAFED and NCCF to retain adequate inventories. The move is aimed at strengthening preparedness against any production shortfall arising from adverse weather conditions, including El Niño, while ensuring sufficient availability of pulses at affordable prices.