Government weighs reducing tariffs on lentils and yellow peas to boost domestic supplies as weak monsoon rains raise concerns over crop production and food inflation.
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on pulses, including lentils and yellow peas, to increase domestic supplies and contain rising food prices amid concerns over agricultural production following a weak monsoon.
According to a Reuters report published on Thursday, October 1, the proposed tariff reductions are aimed at making imported pulses more affordable and easing inflationary pressures on Indian households.
India currently imposes a 10 per cent import duty on red lentils and chickpeas, while yellow peas are subject to a significantly higher tariff of 30 per cent.
Reducing these duties could encourage additional imports, helping offset potential domestic supply shortages and stabilize prices.
The government is examining the measures as inadequate monsoon rainfall raises concerns about domestic pulse production. Lower agricultural output could tighten supplies and place further upward pressure on food prices.
Pulses are a staple of the Indian diet and an important source of protein for millions of households, making price increases particularly significant for consumers.
The proposed reductions would allow importers to source pulses at lower costs, potentially increasing their availability in domestic markets.
However, the government has not yet announced a final decision on the proposed tariff changes.
The move, if implemented, would form part of India’s efforts to maintain adequate food supplies and control inflation while addressing the potential impact of unfavourable weather conditions on agricultural production.
