Ample pulses supply, better crop outlook to keep prices in check: Bimal Kothari

28-May-2025 09:19 AM

Ample pulses supply, better crop outlook to keep prices in check: Bimal Kothari
★ India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA) chairman Bimal Kothari has said that pulse prices are unlikely to rise this year due to abundant supply and a better-than-normal monsoon, which is expected to support a strong kharif crop.
★ Prices of all major pulses are below MSP, with the sharpest decline seen in tur (pigeon pea), pushing government procurement close to 600,000 tonnes.
★ Chana (gram) and masoor (lentil) are also trading below the minimum support price (MSP) across various markets.
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Global production & imports:
★ India imported a record 6.8 million tonnes of pulses in 2024–25.
★ The government imposed only 10% import duty on desi chickpeas and masoor, encouraging Australian farmers to increase desi chickpea production to 2–2.5 million tonnes.
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Global crop forecasts:
★ Russia’s yellow pea production, which was 4 million tonnes last year, is expected to reach 4–5 million tonnes this year.
★ Australia’s lentil production could rise by 40% to 1.75 million tonnes, nearly matching India’s total lentil output.
★ Africa’s tur production may increase from the usual 700,000 tonnes to 900,000–1,000,000 tonnes.
★ Myanmar is expected to produce around 1 million tonnes of urad, while Brazil may produce 200,000–250,000 tonnes.
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Kharif outlook:
★ With the monsoon arriving earlier than usual, early sowing of pulses is expected.
★ The market awaits a decision on the extent of MSP hikes for kharif pulses, which will influence sowing sentiment.
★ Bimal Kothari emphasized that global supply is strong across all origins and that prices are not only stable but may decline further once global crops are harvested. This is positive news for consumers, as it ensures price stability and food affordability through the year.