The pulses trade projects imports of yellow peas at approximately 1 million tonnes by March 31, 2024, anticipating a shortfall in chana supply due to reduced crop size and weather challenges in states like Karnataka. At a webinar organized by the India Pulses and Grains Association, the Managing Director of Viterra India highlighted the chana crop's reduced size for 2024-25, estimated at 15% lower than the previous year. With chana acreage down by 8% and yields expected to decrease by 7-8%, the situation prompts concerns.

Crop Conditions

While Madhya Pradesh anticipates higher yields by 5-6%, Karnataka faces a downturn, with yields potentially dropping by 15-20%. Carry forward stocks of chana for 2024-25 are estimated to be around 1.5 million tonnes, with the government holding 1 million tonnes, leaving the remainder in the open market. As the chana supply tightens, demand will shift towards yellow peas.

Government Initiatives and Imports

In response to supply concerns, the government initiated duty-free imports of yellow peas in December to stabilize pulse supply and regulate prices. Import sources include countries like Canada and Russia. An Expert from the Uttar Pradesh Dal Mills Association forecasts positive prospects for green peas, citing increased acreage and improved yields in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Favorable weather conditions could increase crop size.

Assurances To Farmers

Consumer Affairs Secretary reassures adequate chana availability, emphasizing that seeding matches the five-year average at around 10.5 million hectares. The pulse market undergoes challenges with resilience, adapting to changing crop trends and imports to meet consumer demands effectively.

The pulse industry anticipates and adapts to the challenges of shifting crop sizes and weather uncertainties, with yellow peas emerging as a critical player in offsetting chana shortfalls. Import strategies and domestic production efforts align to ensure a stable pulse market and meet consumer needs efficiently.

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