Indian pulse prices surge as weather woes and import costs tighten supply

According to the India Pulses and Grains Association, Indian pulse markets are experiencing a sharp price increase, with pigeon pea (arhar) nearing the high levels seen in the 2023-24 season as retail prices once topped ₹200 per kilogram. Wholesale rates in Akola, Maharashtra, have risen to ₹108-108.25 per kg, while Gulbarga, Karnataka, sees prices between ₹103-113 per kg, up ₹17-19 per kg over the past month. The surge is linked to adverse weather and dry conditions affecting the kharif pigeon pea crop in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, as well as a depreciating rupee that inflates import costs.

Black gram prices have climbed because of limited Myanmar shipments, higher export offers, and port congestion, with Delhi's imported FAQ black gram quoted at ₹101 per kg, up from ₹88.75 a month earlier. Domestic black gram quality is also slipping, with 60-70% of new arrivals rated poor to average. Chickpea prices are edging higher ahead of the rabi sowing season, supported by trader purchases, festival demand for dal and gram flour, and concerns over low soil moisture and insufficient rainfall in key growing regions.