It seems like the government’s efforts to promote self-sufficiency in pulse production are facing significant challenges, especially with the sharp rise in imports.

The data you provided highlights that imports are not only still high but increasing, driven mainly by yellow peas and pigeon peas.

The goal of achieving self-sufficiency by 2027 and ending pulse imports by 2028 appears difficult given the current trends.

The reliance on imports for pulses like Desi gram, Urad, Masoor, Tuvar, and yellow peas is particularly concerning because of their large share in domestic consumption.

Yellow peas seem to dominate the imports, which likely reflects both demand and the relative ease with which they are sourced internationally.

It’s interesting that the government has extended the duty-free import period for pigeon pea until 2026 and might do the same for other pulses.

While this move could help ease the price pressure on consumers in the short term, it may delay progress toward self-sufficiency in pulse production.

Do you think the increase in imports signals a deeper issue with domestic production, like insufficient infrastructure or market disincentives for local farmers to grow pulses?