MUMBAI, 14 Nov (Commoditiescontrol): A Russian delegation led by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Mr. Maxim Titov met with Ms. Nidhi Khare, Secretary of India’s Department of Consumer Affairs, to discuss enhancing cooperation in the pulse trade. Russia, already a major supplier of masur (lentils) and yellow peas to India, is now exploring opportunities to diversify its pulse production to include urad (black matpe) and tur (pigeon pea) in response to rising demand.
India’s pulse supply has shown a steady improvement since July 2024, driven by positive kharif crop prospects and continuous imports. The tur crop, particularly promising this year, has already seen early harvesting in parts of Karnataka. Overall, the availability of pulses remains robust due to strong imports of tur, urad, chana, and yellow peas. By early November, tur and urad imports had reached 10 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) and 6.4 LMT, respectively, surpassing last year’s total imports. Bulk chana shipments from Australia are also expected to arrive this month. A diversified import base has helped maintain a steady supply of pulses at competitive prices.
Amid strained relations between India and Canada, new opportunities for pulse trade are emerging. India, which has traditionally imported yellow peas and lentils from Canada, has seen diplomatic tensions rise, with both countries expelling embassy officials. Despite the strained relations, India has assured that current diplomatic issues will not affect the pulse trade.
Meanwhile, early reports on rabi sowing for chana, masur, urad, and moong indicate recovery from delays due to prolonged rains in certain regions. Strong price realizations have contributed to positive farmer sentiment and sowing intentions, signaling a favorable outlook for the upcoming season.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91 98201 30172)