India’s Roadmap to Self-Sufficiency in Pulses: NITI Aayog’s Strategic Report

To strengthen nutritional security and the agriculture-based rural economy, NITI Aayog has released an important report titled “Strategies and Pathways for Accelerated Growth in Pulses.” The report recommends region- and state-specific agricultural strategies to ensure balanced and sustainable growth in pulse production across the country.

Steps Towards Self-Sufficiency in Pulses

• According to Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, if the current growth rate continues, India could achieve self-sufficiency in pulses within the next ten years.
• In 2015–16, pulse production dropped to 16.3 million tonnes, forcing India to import about 6 million tonnes.
• ·  Due to government efforts, production increased by 59.4% to 26 million tonnes in 2022–23.
• Productivity also rose by 38%.
• Import dependency reduced significantly — from 29% in 2015–16 to 10.4% in 2022–23.

Agricultural Diversity and Regional Contribution

• India’s diverse agro-climatic conditions allow the cultivation of 12 varieties of pulses during the kharif, rabi, and summer seasons.
• About 80% of pulse production currently comes from rain-fed areas, providing livelihood to over 50 million farmers.
• Pulse cultivation is concentrated mainly in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, which together account for 55% of the total production.
• The top 10 states contribute about 91% of national production.

Conclusion The NITI Aayog report provides both a vision and a roadmap for strengthening pulse production. It emphasizes not only increasing output but also enhancing rural livelihoods, improving nutrition, and reducing import dependence. With effective implementation at the state and district levels, India is poised not only to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses but also to establish a stronger position in the global pulse market in the coming years.