India is on track to claim the top spot as the leading global producer of lentils in the 2023-24 crop year, with an expected surge in production to about 1.6 million tonnes, as indicated by Consumer Affairs Secretary Mr. Rohit Kumar Singh. The government’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in pulses by December 2027 is in progress, yet a dependence on imports is foreseen for some time. The projected lentil production for 2023-24 represents a substantial increase since 2017-18, propelled by a noteworthy rise in Minimum Support Price (MSP) and favorable market dynamics, encouraging increased cultivation by farmers.
Despite initial higher projections for lentil production in Canada, there has been a downward revision, further solidifying India’s position as a prominent lentil producer. Australia, another key global player, is anticipated to produce approximately 1.4 million tonnes of lentils in 2023-24. Lentils have gained increased significance in India, particularly amidst diplomatic tensions with Canada, a major lentil-growing nation. Although India remains a significant lentil importer, the boost in domestic production may lead to a reduction in imports.
