Neeraj Dhawan, Founder and Managing Director at Mega Grain Trading Co. Pvt. Ltd talks to Sonia Sharma about Pulses 23 and how India is expanding its reach and growth areas within the industry.
With an MBA degree and experience in multinational companies like Rice Company, I have vast expertise in global agri-commodity trading.
At age 35, I pursued my entrepreneurial aspirations and founded MEGAGRAIN, a business focused on agri-commodities. My background in trading and passion for this industry formed a strong foundation for my entry into this role as Founder and Managing Director.
There are many issues that the industry is facing, such as price volatility. Pulses often experience price fluctuations, due to factors such as weather conditions, supply and demand dynamics, and trade policies. This volatility can make it challenging for farmers, traders, and processors to plan and manage their operations effectively.
Pulse cultivation can also be affected by various factors, including pests and diseases, climate change, and limited access to quality seeds and inputs. These challenges can impact yields and quality, affecting the overall supply chain.
There are also market access and trade barriers. Trade barriers, including tariffs, quotas, and non-tariff measures, can hinder the free flow of pulses across borders. Such barriers can restrict market access and impact international trade, affecting both producers and consumers.
Changing consumer preferences and dietary shifts, particularly in urban areas, can also impact the demand for pulses, but the industry is overcoming all these challenges by creating new dishes out of all pulses, which is the recent shift in dietary preferences of the coming generations and by increasing the production of pulses multi-fold – which is also catering to consumer demand, and also tackling price volatility.
The increasing global demand means pulses being recognised for their nutritional value, sustainability, and versatility in various cuisines. As more people seek healthier and plant- based protein sources, there is a growing demand for pulses. Expanding markets and consumer awareness present opportunities for increased production and trade.
There is also rising interest in sustainable agriculture and pulses play a vital role in sustainable agricultural practices. For example, they can fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. As sustainability becomes a priority in agriculture, there is an opportunity to promote pulses as a sustainable crop and capitalize on the associated benefits.
Pulses also offer opportunities for value addition through processing. This includes activities such as milling, dehulling, fractionation, and manufacturing of pulse-based products like flours, protein isolates, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Developing innovative pulse-based products can cater to changing consumer preferences and expand market reach.
The export potential for pulses is unprecedented. Many countries have a significant import demand for pulses and expanding export opportunities can benefit pulse-producing regions. By meeting quality standards, exploring new markets, and leveraging trade agreements, producers can tap into the global demand for pulses.
The Indian government has implemented national programs to boost pulse production and address the challenges faced by the industry. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and the National Mission on Protein Supplements (NMPS) aim to enhance pulse production through various interventions such as improved seeds, technology dissemination, and extension services. The Indian government has also implemented policies to support the pulse industry with measures such as minimum support prices, procurement support, and subsidies on inputs help incentivise pulse cultivation and provide stability to farmers. Export policies and trade facilitation measures are also implemented to promote the global trade of pulses.
The Indian government, along with industry stakeholders, promotes awareness campaigns to highlight the nutritional benefits of pulses and their importance in a balanced diet. Initiatives like the "National Nutrition Mission" aim to create awareness about the significance of pulses for combating malnutrition and promoting food security.
The country has also established research institutions and agricultural universities focused on pulse research and development. These institutions conduct research to develop improved varieties, enhance crop productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices. Efforts are also made to enhance pulse processing technologies and develop value-added products.
Through international collaborations, India has been able to actively engage in pulse promotion. It is a member of the International Year of Pulses (IYP) initiative led by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and GPC, and participates in global forums and conferences to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and strengthen partnerships for the development of the pulse sector.
Efforts are also made to promote pulses both domestically and internationally. Trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets are organised to showcase Indian pulses, connect producers with buyers, and explore export opportunities. Schemes like "One District One Product" focus on promoting regional specialities, including pulses, to enhance market visibility.
Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of food production, particularly in relation to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. Sustainable diets, including plant-based and less resource-intensive options, are seen as a way to mitigate these environmental concerns. With this heightened awareness of climate change and its implications, this has led consumers to seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Plant-based diets, which generally have a lower carbon footprint compared to diets heavy on animal products, are seen as a climate-friendly choice, which ties into the growing concerns about animal welfare. This has prompted consumers to seek alternatives to conventional animal agriculture.
As a result of these drivers, consumers are indeed demanding more from the food industry. They are seeking sustainable and ethical choices, driving companies to offer more plant- based options, reduce their environmental footprint, and adopt transparent and responsible practices. The food industry is responding by introducing plant-based product lines, providing eco-labelling, and committing to sustainability goals to meet the evolving demands of conscious consumers.
Megagrain decided to sponsor the convention so that it can reach a larger audience and attract new customers by associating its brand with a popular event like this one from GPC. Here we can also launch our B2B platform, which has an organic audience with renowned companies all over the world. Engaging directly with GPC’s target audience – which has serious buyers and sellers – it can build relationships, and showcase its trade and B2B services in this environment.
Through GPC, Megagrain can also promote and demonstrate their offerings to a captive audience, increase awareness, trial, and potential sales. Megagrain can network with industry professionals, potential partners, and clients, fostering business relationships, exploring partnerships, and generalising leads. It can showcase expertise, strengthen industry connections, and enhance its brand reputation through sponsoring.
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
