Request to Relax Disposal Norms for PSS Pulses

25-Jul-2026 03:24 PM

New Delhi: The Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs has written to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, urging them to consider relaxing the nine-month disposal rule—which governs open market sales—for pulses procured under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), specifically *Tur* (pigeon pea) and *Chana* (gram) from the 2025-26 season.

Currently, central agencies NAFED and NCCF are regularly selling pulse stocks in the open market. However, the Department of Consumer Affairs argues that a decline in production is anticipated due to a reduction in the sowing area for Kharif pulses and the impact of the El Niño weather cycle; therefore, it is essential to preserve these stocks for use during potential shortages in the coming months.

The letter states that the Department of Consumer Affairs is closely monitoring the evolving situation regarding pulse availability and prices. Preliminary assessments indicate that weather and monsoon conditions may remain somewhat uncertain, likely affecting the sowing area and production performance of Kharif pulses in certain regions. The overall crop production outlook is not yet fully clear.

According to the letter, given the prevailing uncertainty, it is crucial to maintain adequate pulse stocks to offset potential declines in supply and availability in the coming months. This year, the Department of Consumer Affairs has already initiated the process of transferring stocks—comprising 3 lakh tonnes of *Tur*, 5 lakh tonnes of *Chana*, and 50,000 tonnes of *Urad*—from the PSS to the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) buffer.

The total value of this stock, calculated at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), stands at ₹5,882.50 crore. However, transferring additional stock has become difficult due to a lack of funds. In view of this, NAFED and NCCF should be asked not to sell their stocks of pulses in the open market at this time. These stocks will be needed in the coming months.