Market Updates

India’s yellow pea debate intensifies/
Ministries split over import policy and farm protection


Rahul Chauhan

Contributor

At a glance


  • India has imported 3.5 million tonnes of yellow peas so far, compared to under 1 million tonnes of domestic output.
  • The duty-free import policy has been extended until March 2026 amid ongoing ministerial debate.
  • A 50% import duty is under consideration to balance farmer protection and consumer affordability.

Yellow peas — now a key ingredient in India’s pulse blends — have filled nearly 20% of total demand, keeping prices stable despite import tensions.

There is a clear difference of opinion among central government ministries regarding the import of yellow peas. The Ministry of Agriculture has taken a firm stance, stating that controlling imports is essential to protect farmers.

According to the Agriculture Secretary, imposing import duties would help stabilise domestic pulse prices and safeguard farmer interests.

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