According to the latest news, India is set to import 12 lakh tonnes of tur dal (pigeon peas) in the current fiscal year to tackle the rising prices caused by lower domestic production. This marks a 35 percent increase from last year, with the aim of boosting availability and controlling the price hike.
Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh highlighted the trouble caused by the increased prices of tur dal. The average retail price of tur dal in India has risen by 25 percent to Rs 128.66 per kg when compared to last year. However, Singh reassured that the prices will start cooling down once imports begin.
India’s domestic production of tur dal stood at 30 lakh tonnes in the 2022-23 crop year, compared to 39 lakh tonnes the previous year. With a domestic consumption of approximately 44-45 lakh tonnes, imports are necessary every year. This year, the country will import 12 lakh tonnes of tur dal in order to meet demand.
Currently, India has already imported 6 lakh tonnes of tur dal from Myanmar and East African countries. The arrival of crops from East African countries in August is expected to further stabilize domestic prices.
To curb the rising prices, the government has implemented several measures. The stock limit imposed on traders, millers, and importers on June 2 has contributed to a downward trend in prices. Furthermore, the government plans to release 50,000 tonnes from the buffer stock into the market, which will alleviate pressure on rates.
Apart from tur dal, there has also been an increase in the all-India average retail price of urad dal, moong dal, and masoor dal. However, the prices of these pulses are expected to come down due to factors such as improved supplies from Myanmar and bumper production in Madhya Pradesh.
Singh emphasized that pulses should be considered holistically, taking into account their price sensitivity and regional preferences. Chana (chickpeas) make up approximately 46 percent of pulses consumption in India, while tur dal, urad dal, masoor dal, and other pulses account for 10 percent.
Overall, these measures aim to address the issue of rising pulse prices in India by increasing imports and ensuring sufficient domestic availability. The government’s efforts to stabilize prices will provide relief to consumers and help maintain a stable market for pulses in the country.
