India’s diverse pulse varieties face marginalisation as global trade deals push standardized imports. Local beans like Goa’s merule risk fading from markets due to declining farmer support and supermarket simplification. Experts warn that consumer awareness and policy intervention are vital to preserve India’s culinary heritage and agricultural diversity.
India’s pulse sector, long celebrated for its diversity and nutritional importance, is encountering a new challenge. Global trade agreements are increasingly favoring standardized varieties, sidelining India’s unique pulses that have traditionally enriched diets and supported rural livelihoods.
Key Highlights
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India’s pulse diversity under threat
Local varieties such as Goa’s merule, prized for their texture and flavor, are losing visibility in mainstream markets. Farmers cultivating these pulses face declining demand as imports dominate shelves.
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Trade deals favoring standardization
Global agreements are prioritizing uniformity in pulse imports, which simplifies supply chains but undermines regional diversity. This shift risks eroding India’s culinary traditions and weakening small-scale farming communities.
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Rising domestic production but uneven support
India’s pulse production has grown steadily, reaching over 25 million metric tonnes in 2024–25, aided by favorable conditions. Yet, government support and minimum support price policies remain focused on mainstream varieties like tur and chana, leaving niche pulses vulnerable.")
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Consumer role in preservation
Experts emphasize that consumer choices will be critical. By actively seeking out and supporting indigenous pulses, households can help sustain demand and protect India’s agricultural heritage.
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Global food security context
As pulses gain recognition worldwide for their role in sustainable diets, India’s contribution remains significant. However, balancing global trade integration with local preservation is essential to ensure both food security and cultural continuity.
Sources: The Economic Times, AgriBazaar, Miller Magazine