Bharat Dal Program Expands to Provide More Affordable Pulses

The Indian government expands the Bharat Dal initiative by adding moong dal and masur dal to its subsidized pulses. The expansion aims to provide affordable pulses and stabilize prices for consumers.

Masur dal will retail at USD 1,07 per kg, while the government is yet to announce the price for moong dal. Both dals come from the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) buffer stock and will be available at government-approved stores.

Bharat Dal Program Prices and Distribution

During Phase I of Bharat Dal, consumers purchased approximately 1,232,000 tonnes of chana dal. In Phase II, the government allocated an additional 300,000 tonnes, priced at USD 0,84 per kg for chana dal and USD 0,70 per kg for whole chana. By March 12, approximately 118,000 tonnes of chana dal and 13,495 tonnes of whole chana were sold through 8,939 mobile vans, 3,051 stationary stores, and 9 major e-commerce platforms across 26 states and union territories.

Expanded Distribution Network

The government collaborates with:

• National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (Nafed)
• Kendriya Bhandar
• National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Limited (NCCF)

These agencies distribute Bharat Dal through retail stores, mobile vans, e-commerce, and supermarkets.

Strict Monitoring Ensures Transparency

The Quality Council of India conducted an assessment specifically for Phase I distribution and continues to monitor ongoing distribution closely. Agencies maintain real-time sales data, including photographic evidence, and submit daily reports to the Food Ministry.

The expansion of Bharat Dal ensures affordable pulses remain widely accessible to consumers, helping stabilize prices nationwide.