Recently, the Government of India launched the second phase of the Bharat Chana Dal initiative, aimed at stabilising prices and ensuring the availability of essential food items for consumers, especially in urban areas like Delhi-NCR. This initiative comes at a time when the demand for affordable pulses is heightened, particularly during festive seasons, reflecting the government’s commitment to food security.
Overview of the Bharat Chana Dal Initiative
The Bharat Chana Dal initiative is part of a broader strategy to manage food supply and pricing in India. The government has converted 3 lakh tons of Chana stock into Chana Dal and Chana Whole, retailing at Rs.70 and Rs.58 per kg, respectively. This intervention is important because as pulses are a staple source of protein for many Indian households.
Expansion of the Bharat Brand
The Bharat brand has expanded beyond Chana to include Moong and Masur dals, with prices set at Rs.107, Rs.93, and Rs.89 per kg, respectively. This diversification is aimed at providing consumers with a range of affordable options, thereby enhancing dietary variety and nutrition.
Government Policies for Price Stabilisation
To maintain a stable price regime for essential food items, the government has implemented several policies. These include raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for pulses annually and allowing duty-free imports of various pulses until March 2025. Such measures are intended to encourage domestic production while ensuring that supply meets consumer demand.
Domestic Production and Import Facilitation
The government has actively promoted domestic pulse production through awareness campaigns and seed distribution among farmers. For the Kharif 2024-25 season, initiatives for assured procurement have been established, which are expected to continue into the Rabi season. The combination of enhanced domestic production and strategic imports has led to a decline in pulse prices since mid-2024.
Vegetable Price Stabilisation Efforts
In addition to pulses, the government has procured 4.7 lakh tonnes of onions from the rabi crop to stabilise prices. The disposal of onions from this buffer has been facilitated through innovative transportation methods, including bulk rail transport. This strategy not only ensures timely availability but also addresses price fluctuations in the market.
Regional Distribution Initiatives
To enhance the distribution of essential commodities like onions, the government has arranged for transportation to various states, including the North-eastern region. This effort is crucial for ensuring that consumers across India have access to these staples at reasonable prices, thus promoting overall food security.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Bharat Chana Dal initiative in the context of food security in India.
- Analyse the impact of government policies on the pricing and availability of pulses.
- Evaluate the role of domestic production in stabilising food prices in India.
- What measures can be taken to further improve the distribution of essential commodities across India?
- Examine the challenges faced in maintaining a stable price regime for essential food items in India.
