Government's 4.3 Million Tonne Pulse Stock Helps Stabilize the Market

12-Jun-2026 04:08 PM

New Delhi. Latest government data reveals a massive stockpile of approximately 4.3 million tonnes of pulses in the central buffer, alongside regular imports from abroad—a trend set to continue. However, if news spreads in the global market that domestic production of Kharif pulses—such as Arhar (Tur), Urad, and Moong—is being adversely affected by the El Niño weather cycle and a potentially weak monsoon, major exporting nations might attempt to raise their offer prices. This could make pulse imports costlier for India and increase the likelihood of market prices remaining high and firm.

By May 2026, government pulse stocks had risen to 4.3 million tonnes, more than double the levels available in May 2025 and May 2024. Government procurement of Chana (gram) exceeded 2.035 million tonnes, while Tur procurement surpassed 0.534 million tonnes.

Industry analysts note that although the government has set a production target of 4 million tonnes of Tur for the 2026-27 Kharif season, there are doubts whether total output would even reach 3 million tonnes if sowing acreage drops and weather or monsoon conditions prove unfavorable.

Urad yields could also decline; however, this shortfall can be met by increasing imports. The substantial government stock will play a crucial role in boosting domestic supply and availability while keeping prices under control.

India imports pulses on a large scale: Urad and Tur from Myanmar; Tur and Chana from African nations; Urad from Brazil; peas and Masoor (lentils) from Canada; Masoor and Desi Chana from Australia; and peas from Russia and Ukraine.