Black gram imports from Myanmar takes a hit

Due to the political unrest in Myanmar, import of black gram (urad dal or black matpe) could get affected in India this year. Last week, the Government of India had allowed the import of 4 lakh tonnes of urad dal for 2021-22 to tackle the shortage of supply that happened as domestic production got affected in the Kharif season by unseasonal and erratic rains. The import of urad dal is important to bridge the gap of demand and supply in India. Urad dal is rampantly used in the popular idli, dosa, pappad, and other such savory dishes. So, it is but natural that these food items will become costlier, especially in South India. Vice Chairman of Indian Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA) Bimal Kothari said to the media, “The import quota was on expected lines. However, due to the prevailing political unrest in Myanmar, the shipments won’t be smooth. Definitely, we will see some hiccups in imports this year.” The political unrest has already disrupted the pulses supply chain in ...