The prices of Tuvar (Arhar) and Urad have been softening due to several factors, including the arrival of the new crop and increased imports. In key pulse-producing states, the harvesting of Tuvar has gained momentum, leading to an increase in its supply across markets.

The arrival of new Urad stocks is already underway, and Tuvar and Urad are being regularly imported from countries like Myanmar, African nations, and Brazil, further contributing to their availability in the domestic market. This increased supply has led to a reduction in prices in wholesale markets, with a similar trend expected in the retail market.

The outlook for Tuvar production is positive this year, with indications of a good harvest. Additionally, imports of yellow peas, Desi gram, and lentils have been significantly high.

A duty-free import policy for yellow peas was introduced last year, resulting in more than 25 lakh tonnes being imported so far. The government has also opened up imports of Desi gram, with new stocks coming in from Australia.

However, despite this increased availability of pulses, India faced a 10 percent decline in the gram crop for the 2023-24 season, resulting in a total pulse production decline of 7 percent.

This drop in domestic production, combined with adverse weather, led to concerns over supply shortages and higher prices for gram.

To mitigate this, the government allowed duty-free imports of gram, which was a significant shift from previous policies that focused on yellow peas as a substitute. The duty-free import of yellow peas has been extended until January 31, 2025.

While the gram crop faced challenges, the overall pulse production is expected to recover, especially with favorable conditions for Tuvar and the expansion of Rabi season area for gram cultivation.

The prices of pulses, especially in the wholesale markets, are likely to continue their downward trend due to these combined factors.