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 & UradDuty-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 ImportsTuvar & Desi Chana
  • Overall Market Impact: Increased supply pushed domestic prices below MSP

Concerns Over Policy & Market Impact

  • Over-supply issuesExcessive 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.