Recently approved by the Union cabinet, the 6-year Mission for Aatmanirbhar in Pulses from 2025-26 to 2030-31, with a financial outlay of Rs 11,440 crore, seeks to achieve self-sufficiency in this protein-rich legume. The mission will adopt a comprehensive strategy covering research, seed systems, area expansion, procurement and price stability.

India is the world’s largest producer, processor and consumer of pulses. With production growth trailing demand growth, import volumes have been expanding. The year 2024-25 witnessed a record import of about 7 million tonnes, representing close to 30 per cent of the 25.2 million tonnes domestic production and 50 per cent higher imports than the previous year’s 4.7 million tonnes. Will the self-sufficiency mission deliver?

Historically, to augment

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