Efforts to Make Available Pulses at Lower Prices

In an effort to bring some relief to consumers, particularly those feeling the pinch of rising food prices, the Indian government has resumed its 'Bharat' dal sales initiative. The festive season is in full swing and Diwali just around the last date of this month. This move aims to ensure affordable pulses are available for families across the country.

On Wednesday, Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi officially launched Phase II of the initiative, offering chana (whole gram) at just USD 0,70 per kg and masoor dal at USD 1,07 per kg. These reduced prices will be available through the cooperative networks of NCCF, NAFED, and Kendriya Bhandar.

What's New in Bharat Dal Phase II?

In this second phase, the government plans to convert 0.30 million tonnes of chana from its buffer stock into chana dal and whole chana for retail sale. Consumers can purchase chana dal for USD 0,84 per kg, while whole chana remains at USD 0,70 per kg. For comparison, Phase I saw chana dal sold at a slightly lower price of USD 0,72 per kg.

Meanwhile, moong dal, which has remained part of the Bharat brand, continues to be priced at USD 1,28 per kg, and masoor dal has now been added to the lineup at USD 1,07 per kg.

As of October 22, the average retail prices for these pulses across India were noticeably higher:

• chana dal averaged USD 1,14 per kg,
• moong dal was USD 1,39 per kg,
• masoor dal stood at USD 1,08 per kg.

Other popular pulses, such as tur dal and urad dal, which aren’t part of the Bharat Dal program, were priced at USD 1,94 per kg and USD 1,50 per kg, respectively.

A Step Towards Affordable Food for All

Minister Joshi highlighted the government’s dedication to keeping food affordable, particularly for those hit hardest by inflation. "Our direct intervention with the sale of rice, flour, dals, and onions has played a critical role in maintaining price stability," Joshi said. He also mentioned that the government is in talks with e-commerce platforms and major retail outlets. Just to ensure Bharat dal is accessible to more consumers nationwide.

Supporting Consumers Through Subsidised Pulses

Government subsidies under the Price Stabilisation Fund make the lower prices of these pulses possible. This initiative aims to prevent sharp fluctuations in the cost of essential goods. After the launch, Joshi also flagged off mobile vans that will distribute pulses across Delhi. With his plans to expand the service to Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and the rest of the country within the next ten days.

Anice Chandra Joseph, Managing Director of NCCF, confirmed that the program will grow rapidly in the coming days. “Our goal is to reach every corner of India. And make sure consumers can access these subsidized pulses quickly,” she said.

Conclusion

As the festive season approaches, the government's resumption of Bharat dal sales brings timely relief to consumers. By offering chana, masur, and moong dal at reduced prices. This initiative is not only helping families put nutritious food on the table but also underscoring the government's broader efforts to stabilize the cost of essential food items.





Click here to reach our trading platfrom CMBroker