Import and Export of Pulses (by India)

Abstract

India is largest producer and consumer of Pulses. Pulses are a major source of protein for an overwhelming number of Indians. Thus the availability and prices of pulses have an important bearing on the health and well-being of the people. As the incomes rise, people will demand more and more of non-cereal food and hence the demand for pulses is also expected to rise in future. With the rise in demand, prices rise; Government of India allows import of pulses from time to time to neutralise prices. With respect to pulses, apparently no major research work has been undertaken to study the causes of import. This paper attempts to analyse import of various category of pulses after the onset of economic reforms since 1991 and also determinants of import of pulses.