PSUs to soon float pulses import tenders

The government has finalised modalities for import of key pulses and state-run agencies such as MMTC will soon float tenders for overseas purchase of lentils, Agriculture Secretary Siraj Hussain said today. “We have finalised the modalities for import of pulses. MMTC and other state-trading agencies have been asked to float import tenders,” Hussain said.

The import of pulses will boost domestic supply and check rising prices, he added. Prices of pulses have risen by more than 64 per cent in the last one year as the domestic production fell by two million tonnes in the  2014-15 crop year due to unfavourable weather conditions. For instance in Delhi retail markets, tur prices have increased to Rs  113 a kg, urad to Rs 112 a kg, moong to Rs 103 per kg, masoor dal to Rs 94 a kg and gram to Rs 68 a kg, as per the data maintained by the consumer affairs ministry.

Last week, the Cabinet had expressed concern over rising prices and decided to increase imports, among other measures.

"The government is very serious on rising prices of pulses. There has been less production of pulses. We will import pulses whatever quantity is required," Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan had said.

Pulses production is estimated to have fallen to 17.38 MT in 2014-15 crop year (July-June) from 19.25 MT in the previous crop year due to deficient monsoon last year and unseasonal rains and hailstorms during March-April this year.

India imports about four MT of pulses, largely through private trade, to meet domestic shortfall.