Limited Price Fluctuations in Chana and Tur Amidst Low Arrivals and Weak Demand

18-May-2026 04:15 PM

Mumbai: Wholesale market prices for Chana (Bengal Gram) and Arhar (Tur/Pigeon Pea) are expected to witness only limited fluctuations in the near future. This is because, on one hand, the pace of market arrivals has slowed down, while on the other, demand has also weakened. Dal millers and traders are currently purchasing these pulses only in small quantities to meet their immediate operational requirements.

A weekly report released by a leading trade body—the India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA)—states that significant price volatility is unlikely for Chana and Tur, as well as for Urad (Black Gram). This assessment is based on the fact that market arrivals remain stable, demand is limited, and imports from abroad are also occurring at a relatively lower pace.

Arrivals of Chana in most wholesale markets are currently falling short of expectations, and the market is not currently in its peak consumption season. Demand from the hotel, restaurant, and catering (HoReCa) sector has weakened, partly due to shortages in cooking gas supplies. Seasonal demand for Besan (gram flour) also remains subdued. However, given that current market prices are already trading below the Minimum Support Price (MSP), any further downward correction appears unlikely.

This year, the MSP for Chana has been fixed at ₹5,875 per quintal. Consequently, millers/processors and traders/stockists may show increased interest in purchasing Chana at these lower price levels. Government procurement of Chana is also currently underway. Furthermore, imports of Desi Chana (domestic variety) and Yellow Peas from abroad have declined this year. As a result, the Chana market is expected to maintain an environment of relative stability.