India Pulses weaken on slack demand, import pressure

Seasonal consumption dip and rising overseas arrivals dampen sentiment, curbing buying interest across major domestic markets

Shreya Shetty MUMBAI

Prices of pulses showed a mixed trend across major spot markets on Wednesday, with tur declining due to weak demand, while chana and urad remained largely steady amid balanced supply conditions, traders said.

 Chana prices in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, were unchanged at ₹5,675–₹5,775 per 100 kg, supported by demand matching supply, said local trader Gaurav Kochar. Buying activity remained limited to need-based purchases by millers and traders. 

 Arrivals declined as the government continued procurement operations, though progress has been slower compared to Maharashtra due to a delayed start. 

Unseasonal rainfall during late March and early April had affected the quality of the chana crop, leading to rejection of substandard produce at procurement centres. However, rising temperatures have helped dry the crop, improving procurement momentum. Earlier logistical issues, including a shortage of gunny bags, have eased after government intervention. Procurement in Madhya Pradesh is expected to meet the target of 580,000 tonnes this year. In Delhi, chana prices were also steady at ₹5,525–₹5,575 per 100 kg, reflecting stable demand and supply dynamics.  Tur prices, however, declined in key markets. 

  In Akola, Maharashtra, prices fell by ₹50 to ₹7,750–₹7,775 per 100 kg, marking a second consecutive day of decline. 

Traders attributed the fall to a seasonal slowdown in consumption, which has dampened demand. Although domestic arrivals have reduced as farmers held back stocks at lower price levels, ample imports have ensured comfortable supply. Mkt sentiment has been further weighed down by volatile import pricing, particularly from Myanmar. Traders noted that fluctuating import quotes have created uncertainty, discouraging buying interest in domestic markets.  According to the India Pulses and Grains Association, stocks of imported tur are building up in Chennai warehouses, with fresh shipments expected to arrive in the coming weeks. 

 India’s tur imports rose to 1.40 mn tonnes during Apr–Feb, compared to 1.19 mn tonnes a year earlier, as per commerce ministry data. 

 Prices in Katni, Madhya Pradesh, also declined by ₹100 to ₹7,950–₹8,050 per 100 kg.Meanwhile, urad prices remained steady.  In Chandausi, UP, prices were unchanged at ₹8,275–₹8,300 per 100 kg, while in Jaipur, Rajasthan, they held at ₹7,600–₹8,600 per 100 kg, supported by balanced demand and supply.