The Commerce Minster of India, Suresh Prabhu was recently talking about the prospects of Latin American countries joint-venturing with Indian companies to expand imports of pulses into the country. Experts, however, have something else to say on the matter. Let’s find out-
Importing pulses and lentils into the Indian mainland has had a bleak history. After the domestic pulses production had plummeted in the last two years, prices of the same had fell by multitudes. The government as a counter reaction, imposed heavy restrictions on the imports from around the world.
Back in 2015, the government had called for increased production of pulses from African countries, in response to the dry season and deficient produce in the markets. The local prices had plummeted to such a level that government had to ask for more and more small African farmers to take up lentil sowing for India.
Two years later however, the government seemed backing down and leading small African farmers distraught. This not only affected their livelihood but took away the trust of African farmers and diplomats along with. The same was the case with Myanmar farmers as well.
Also, the idea of Indian companies going abroad for agri-production remains unfounded. Once a few companies had ventured into exploring Argentina farms but returned for lack of enough finances and operational hardships.
Agri-experts question if what is preventing the government from enhancing agriculture facilities inside the country. Our land is already bestowed with ample sunshine, big stretches of alluvial soil, water and varied seasons. According to experts, the country needs a solid growth-oriented policy while focusing equally on investment and research.
Farmers across the country in the last few years, kept on taking to the roads time and again. Governments at times arrived on decisions but majorly they all are short-term. Doubling farmer’s income too is a huge promise, voiding country out of its revenue for nothing in return. Its high time, for the government to look close and look far.
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