New Delhi, Sept 24 (KNN) Facing a huge shortage of 10 million tonnes (MMT), pulses prices may shoot up further by as much as 10-15 per cent in the ensuing festival season, exerting prices on food items, indicated a study.

As deficit monsoon rains have affected the yield in several producing states, the country may have to import over 10 million tonnes (MMT) of pulses since the domestic production may be limited to 17 million tonnes against the rising demand of 27 million tonnes, according to the recent study on “Pulses import expected to rise” by ASSOCHAM.

As per the study, India has a total annual demand of 27.1 million metric ton of pulses out of which it grows 17 million metric ton and imports the remaining 10.1 million ton to meet its domestic demand.

With the lack of proper monsoons, there might be less production than usual. Import of the pulses from other countries could be extremely expensive this year as the grower countries already facing a shortage of supply have increased their selling rates, it added.

The study also stated that Pulses may be more expensive in festive season as demand shoots up.

It said with festivals like Diwali round the corner, the demand for pulses would further shoot up and prices may be looking up , further by at least 10 -15 per cent . As it is, the pulses are selling at Rs 90-145/150 per kg with prices varying in different states, depending on the demand pattern.

The consumption of pulses and cereals increases because of increased demand for preparation of sweets and other delicacies going with different festivals, from Diwali right up to Christmas, added the study. (KNN Bureau)