Study of India’s Pulses Sector in Context of Production Shifts, Trade Patterns, and Policy Initiatives

Abstract

Aims: The present study aims to examine the production scenario of pulse crops in India and its major states, to understand changes in patterns over time. It also attempts to investigate the government's policy initiatives for the sector's development. Study Design: A secondary data-based analytical and descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: The relevant production-related data were collected from various issues of 'Agriculture Statistics at a Glance' and the Indiastat website for the period of 2013-14 to 2023-24. Trade-related data was collected from the trade statistics section of the DGCI&S website. Methodology: Tabular, comparative analysis, CAGR, instability index, descriptive study. Results: The overall pulse yield of the country has improved throughout the years, but production has declined after 2021-22. Although Madhya Pradesh is the highest pulse-producing state in India, it has seen a reduction in area and production for many pulse crops over the past few years. Yield improvements have been prominent in Gujarat for gram and pigeon pea over the years. The green gram yield in Madhya Pradesh has improved significantly. The export of pulses from India has been relatively modest compared to imports. Recently, imports have risen due to a domestic shortfall. Conclusion: The findings reveal a crop- and state-specific scenario in pulses. The changes in cropping patterns need to be studied thoroughly so as to formulate micro-level, targeted approaches for the development of the sector. The policy measures taken by the government are steps for improving the pulse sector of India.