Centre is monitoring kharif crop prospects amid the threat of El Niño.
Buffer stocks may be released to prevent a sharp rise in pulse prices.
Highlights:
- Government may release pulses from buffer stocks if prices rise sharply.
- Buffer stock currently stands at around 4.24 million tonnes (MT).
- Total pulses buffer is 2.76 MT, including 1.47 MT under PSS and PSF.
- Chana buffer stock is estimated at around 2 MT, while arhar stock is 0.7–0.8 MT.
- Kharif pulse acreage stands at 9.51 million hectares, down 6.3% year-on-year.
- Trade expects El Niño’s impact on urad and tur to become clearer in the coming months.
The Centre is considering releasing pulses from its buffer stock to keep retail prices under control if concerns over the kharif crop intensify due to the possible impact of El Niño. Officials said the government is closely monitoring crop conditions and market trends before deciding on any intervention.
According to government sources, India currently holds around 4.24 million tonnes (MT) of pulses in its buffer stock. These reserves have been built through procurement under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) and the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF). The buffer stock acts as a safeguard against hoarding and speculative trading, allowing the government to stabilise prices whenever required.
Of the total buffer, about 2.76 MT of pulses is available, with 1.47 MT under PSS and PSF. Chana accounts for nearly 2 MT, while arhar stocks are estimated at 0.7–0.8 MT. Officials said these stocks can be released into the market if retail prices begin rising sharply because of lower production expectations.
The development comes as kharif pulse acreage has declined to 9.51 million hectares, a 6.3% drop from a year ago. While the southwest monsoon has progressed, trade sources believe the full impact of El Niño on major pulse-growing regions in central and southern India will become clearer only after the season advances.
Market experts said urad and tur crops remain particularly vulnerable to adverse weather conditions. If rainfall weakens during critical crop stages, production may decline, putting upward pressure on prices. However, the government believes timely market intervention through buffer stock releases can help maintain adequate supplies and protect consumers from sudden price spikes.
