Pulses Imports and India-US Trade: Farmer Worries and Mission
Why in the news
Reports that a proposed India-US trade deal may see India buy American pulses alarmed farmers, who fear more imports and lower local prices.
Key facts
- Pulses give about 25% of non-cereal protein and support about 5 crore farmers and families.
- Policy tools: import policy, price stabilisation, conditional MSP procurement.
- Pulses are mostly rain-fed, with yields below global rivals.
Self-Sufficiency Mission for Pulses
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start | October 2025 |
| Area target | 310 lakh ha |
| Output target | 350 lakh tonnes by 2030-31 |
Farmer concerns
- Imports pull prices down.
- MSP buying is weak compared with rice and wheat.
- Too few procurement centres in many states.
- Farmers underinvest, so import dependence continues and food security stays vulnerable.
Exam angle
- Mission target year: 2030-31.