The Indian government is considering extending the duty-free import of yellow peas until February 2025 to stabilize prices and address shortages of key pulses, including tur (pigeon pea) and chana (chickpea). Currently, duty-free imports of yellow peas are permitted until the end of December 2024.

An official notification regarding the extension is expected soon. The move is seen as a short-term measure to counter low yield expectations for tur in major growing states and ensure price stability for essential pulses.

Pulses Market Overview

India imported over 2.2 million metric tonnes of yellow peas between December 2023 and September 2024 to bolster availability. Despite being a significant producer of pulses, with production rising from 16.3 million tonnes in 2015-16 to 24.5 million tonnes in 2023-24, demand has outpaced supply, reaching approximately 27 million tonnes.

As of December 11, consumer prices for pulses stood at ₹159.58 per kg for tur, ₹114.8 per kg for moong dal, ₹94.48 per kg for chana, and ₹89.67 per kg for masur, according to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

Increased Sowing Areas Provide Some Respite

Data from the Ministry of Agriculture indicates a 4.23% increase in the area sown with  rabi pulses, reaching 12.06 million hectares as of December 6, compared to 11.57 Mha in the previous year. This is expected to surpass the normal sown area of 14.04 Mha, driven by favorable prices received by farmers last year.

Despite this progress, concerns persist about potential climatic challenges impacting production.

Government Price Stabilization Measures

The duty-free import window, initially allowed from December 2023 to March 2024, has been extended multiple times, reflecting the government’s effort to balance domestic production with demand.

The proposed extension underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring affordable pulses for consumers while navigating challenges in production and international trade.