Pulse Import Policy to Remain Unchanged Until Rabi Season Outlook Becomes Clear

New Delhi. Following the timely sowing of Kharif pulse crops in India, attention has now shifted to the upcoming Rabi season. While the acreage for pulse crops during the current Kharif season has been largely satisfactory, there are doubts regarding normal production levels due to unfavorable monsoon and weather conditions in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Under these circumstances, the government is unlikely to make any major changes to its pulse import policy until a clear picture regarding the sowing and crop status of Rabi pulses emerges; this clarity is expected by December-January.

Currently, there is no import duty on Tur (pigeon pea) and Urad (black gram), whereas a 10% customs duty applies to domestic-type Chana (chickpea) and Masoor (lentil), and a 30% duty applies to yellow peas. Chana, Masoor, and peas are primarily cultivated during the Rabi season, whereas Tur is a Kharif pulse crop; Urad and Moong (green gram) are produced in both Kharif and Rabi seasons.

India currently has a ban on the import of Moong. Should there be a decline in Kharif pulse production, it may become necessary to increase imports from abroad. Arrivals of Urad and Moong are set to increase starting next month.