Record import of pulses is happening due to duty free
19-Mar-2025 07:17 PM

Record Pulses Imports Due to Duty-Free Policy
Government Policies Driving High Imports
- Duty-free imports:
- Tuvar (Tur), Urad, and Lentil (already duty-free)
- Yellow Peas: Duty-free since Dec 2023 (extended till May 31, 2025)
- Desi Chana: Duty-free from May 2024
- Extended Import Deadlines:
- Tuvar & Urad: Duty-free till March 31, 2026
- Lentils: Now subject to 10% customs duty
- Decision on Gram: Pending
Record Import Expenditure
- Import cost of pulses: $5.03 billion (first 11 months of FY 2023-24)
- New Record Imports: Tuvar & Desi Chana
- Overall Market Impact: Increased supply pushed domestic prices below MSP
Concerns Over Policy & Market Impact
- Over-supply issues: Excessive imports of Yellow Peas post-Oct 2024 despite no major domestic need.
- Negative Impact on Indian Farmers: Cheap imports lowering domestic prices, making cultivation unprofitable.
- Foreign Currency Outflow: Massive import bill affecting economic balance.
- Self-Reliance at Risk: The policy benefits foreign producers & exporters while hurting Indian farmers.
Industry Recommendations
- Controlled Import Strategy: Limit duty-free imports to essential quantities.
- Policy Reassessment: The government must balance self-reliance with price stability to protect domestic farmers.
The current situation calls for a revised pulses import policy to safeguard Indian agriculture while ensuring food security.