Throughout the world, production trends give an indication of what comprises the consumption basket of a country. India produces about 19 million tonnes of pulses and has to import around 4 million tonnes to meet the demand deficit in 2014. Yet, we just about met the daily requirement of 40 grams per day starting 2011.
A few states in India such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Chhattisgarh provide pulses in the Public Distribution System (PDS) to promote a balanced food consumption basket. However, for a majority of states, pulse distribution through the PDS still remain s a challenge. In the PDS, the poor households are provided essential food items at subsidised prices. This is important because pulse prices are very volatile in India primarily due to a late announcement of the Minimum Support Price (MSP), thereby not providing an incentive for increase in their production. On the other hand, once imports also reach the market, prices start to fall.
In order to increase the consumption of pulses, it is important as mentioned earlier in this discussion to increase awareness about the nutritional benefits of pulses. Till date, they are referred to as poor man's meat and along with millets as orphan crops. In India where almost half the population is vegetarian, increasing the consumption of pulses in the diet is extremely important to fight micronutrient deficiency. Pulses can be cooked in innovative ways such as a pulse patty or a pulse burger which might seem tastier for children and young adults. Production of pulses should also be encouraged by timely announcement of the MSP and proper procurement procedure. This will help the country meet the minimum daily requirement of pulses in the diet.
Sra. Priya Rampal