Pulse Production, Consumption and Its Benefits in India

by Vinay S. Writing stroy

Pulses are one of the cheaper sources of protein. India holds the unique distinction of being the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses. A wide variety of pulses like chickpeas, black gram, red gram, green gram, lentils, red kidney beans, light speckled kidney beans are grown in the tropical and sub-tropical climate. Rising health consciousness and better eating habits have propelled the demand for pulses in the international market. Total pulse irrigated areas stand at a massive 23.8 million hectares with a production of 18.6 million tons. Pulse suppliers in India have been reaping the benefits of hard work over the past years. Major pulse producers in India are states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Karnataka. Canada has become one of the largest exporters of pulses to the international market.

Despite its high level of production, pulse production has faced policy neglect for many years. Introduction of packaged technology led to a massive rise in the production of fine cereals, wheat and rice. The green revolution had its advantages for rice and wheat but not the same effect on pulse production. Fertile lands were allocated to cash crop production and pulse was relegated to marginalized land grown by marginalized farmers. Major pulse production areas have shifted from the Northern states to Southern states. North India has the perfect climate for pulse production. However, with changing times and income priority shifted to the cultivation of crops like wheat, paddy and sugarcane.

In spite of high production of the pulses, consumption data of pulse provides a bleak picture. Alternate data sources from NSO (National Statistical Office) household consumption expenditure report suggest a reduction in pulses and milk consumption. Stagnating income is considered to be one of the main factors behind this. Traditionally, consumption of pulses has shown an inelastic effect even with a stagnant income. Consumption of pulses had remained the same even with income fluctuations. Pulse consumption in India has been showing signs of flattening. Between the year 2013-14 and 2017-18, the consumption rose from 18.6 million tons to 22.5 million tons. However, the consumption again decreased to 22.1 million tons in 2018-19. Inflation and price could be some of the factors behind the reduction.

Another problem for reduced production is the quality of seed being used. Certified seeds are being used only by 10% of the pulse growers. Out of 400 improved varieties of seeds released and distributed by research institutes, National Seeds Corporation only 124 is being used on a regular basis. Private seed companies lack interest in the development and marketing as it affects the bottom line. In essence, only public sector research organizations focus on seed production. There is no wonder that pulse production in India has remained stagnant in the past 40 years at 600kg/ha.

Some of the benefits of consuming pulses are listed below:

a. Rich source of FOLATE: Pulses are an excellent source of FOLATE, a Vitamin B essential for the production and maintenance of new cells. The vitamin is vital for growth especially during the time of infancy and pregnancy. Sufficient consumption of pulses ensures babies are born without a neural tube defect.

b. An abundant amount of protein: Pulses are a great source of clean protein. It is healthy and inexpensive also. Combined with vegetables rich in amino acids, pulses complete the comprehensive requirement for Protein. Being inexpensive, it can act as an alternate source of protein.

c. Better Cardiovascular Health: Being rich in fiber, pulses are considered good for cardiovascular health. Fiber has the ability lower the cholesterol level in the heart. Besides, the potassium present in the pulse also helps to lower the blood pressure.

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