The Indian government has recently revised import duties on lentils (masoor dal) and extended the duty-free import of yellow peas as part of its strategy to regulate the supply and pricing of essential pulses. These measures, announced in March 2025, aim to enhance domestic availability and stabilize market conditions.

Key Policy Changes

1. Import Duty Imposed on Lentils

Effective March 8, 2025, the Indian government has imposed a 10% import duty on masoor dal (lentils). This duty consists of:

• 5% Basic Customs Duty (BCD)
• 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC)

2. Extension of Duty-Free Import for Yellow Peas

• The duty-free import of yellow peas has been extended until May 31, 2025.
• The duty-free status was originally introduced in December 2023 and has since been extended multiple times.

Objective: Ensuring Domestic Availability

The primary goal of these measures is to enhance domestic availability and regulate prices. By imposing a duty on lentils while keeping yellow peas duty-free, the government aims to balance import dependency and support local producers.

Import Statistics

India remains a major importer of pulses. In 2024, India’s total pulse imports stood at 67 lakh tonnes, with yellow peas contributing to nearly 30 lakh tonnes.

Summary of Key Changes in Import Policy

Pulse Type	New Import Duty	Effective Date	Previous Status	Purpose
Masoor Dal (Lentils)	10% (5% BCD + 5% AIDC)	March 8, 2025	0% Import Duty	Regulate imports & support domestic production
Yellow Peas	0% (Duty-Free)	Until May 31, 2025	Duty-Free since Dec 2023	Ensure sufficient domestic availability

Conclusion

The government’s latest decision reflects its strategic approach to balancing imports and domestic production. By imposing duties on lentils while keeping yellow peas duty-free, India aims to stabilize prices and ensure food security. These changes will likely impact importers, traders, and consumers, influencing market dynamics in the coming months.

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