(a) whether the Union Government propose to stop the indiscriminate import of pulses;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken in this regard;
(c) whether the Union Government are also taking steps to increase the export of pulses;
and
(d) if so, the proposal mooted in this regard for the 2002-2003 financial year?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI V. SREENIVASA PRASAD)
(a) & (b): The gap in demand and supply of pulses only is met by imports, and imports
are resorted to match such requirements. The imports of pulses during 2001-2002 were higher
compared to previous years due to substantial decline in the indigenous production during
2000-2001.
(c) & (d): Exports of pulses are allowed without any restrictions. The package
restriction on export of pulses in consumer packs up to 5 kg has been removed from
March 5, 2002, and thus exports can freely take place during the current year.