Shortage of pulses amidst rising demand 

As the Lok Sabha elections approach, India faces a shortage of pulses, driving prices up. To tackle this, the central government is taking action. The Ministry of Consumer Welfare has launched efforts to control pulse prices. Despite allowing free import, prices of pulses like tur, udaid, and masoor continue to rise.

To address this, a central team will inspect stocks in major pulse-producing states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. They’ll crack down on hoarding to prevent price exploitation. However, the stock held by dal mills is tight, so the impact of these actions on prices remains uncertain. This year, pulse production has decreased by 15%, leading to a shortfall. Bimal Kothari, president of Pulses and Grains Association of India, highlights the need for imports due to the lack of domestic stock.

Farmers, attracted by good prices, have sold much of their produce, further reducing availability. A dal grower from Latur, emphasizes the dwindling stock of pulses, especially tur. In response to the price surge, the central government is forming a special team to crack down on hoarders. Recent reviews of tur and udi dal availability, prices, and stocks have prompted strict directives against hoarding.

Therefore, the central government is taking proactive steps to address the pulse shortage and rising prices ahead of the elections. However, the situation remains challenging due to decreased production and tight stocks.