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October 5, 2026 at 10:41 AM IST
Could cheaper pulse imports ease food inflation today but weaken domestic production tomorrow?
With the government reportedly considering lower import duties on pulses, former Agriculture Secretary Siraj Hussain warns against cutting duties on yellow peas just before rabi sowing. Cheaper imports could discourage chana growers at a time when India needs to strengthen domestic pulse production.
In this interview with Rajesh Mahapatra, Hussain examines the difficult balance between affordable food for consumers and viable returns for farmers after an uneven monsoon.
The conversation covers:
- How rainfall deficits and floods could affect crop output.
- Why the timing of a yellow pea duty cut matters for chana growers.
- Low reservoir levels and the risks to rabi sowing.
- Whether India should reduce ethanol blending and grain diversion.
- Rising cultivation costs, fertiliser subsidies and drought relief.
- Support for rainfed farmers through PM-KISAN and other measures.
- What rising food prices could mean for the RBI’s next rate decision.
Watch the full interview for Hussain’s assessment of the choices facing farmers and policymakers.
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