Pulses production in the country is set to decline 7% to18 million tonnes in crop year 2014-15. During the previous crop year (July-June), pulses output was estimated at 20 million tonnes.
One month of delay in the monsoon rainfalls previous season resulted in a proportionate delay in the sowing and harvesting of kharif crops. Consequently, sowing of rabi pulses also remained lower. Besides, unseasonal rainfalls in January are reported to have damaged standing rabi crop in major growing areas.
Pulses price has been under pressure for the past few years following a slowdown in demand growth. Lower production could also support pulses price moving up this year.