ScienceTop StoryTop StoryLatest News
NITI Aayog Highlights India's Dependence on Food Imports
Sentiment: NeutralHigh Priority
What Happened?
NITI Aayog's vice-chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri expressed concerns about India's reliance on imports for essential food items, including pulses and edible oils. He noted that over half of India's edible oil needs are met through imports.
Key points
- India imports more than half of its edible oil requirements, estimated at 17 million metric tonnes worth around $20 billion.
- Chana (gram) consumed in India is imported from Australia, while masoor dal comes from Australia and Canada.
- India is the world's largest producer and consumer of pulses, consuming around 25-27 million tonnes annually.
- Lahiri emphasized the need to reduce dependence on imports by increasing domestic production of pulses and edible oils.
- Promoting the cultivation of pulses and oilseed crops could help address agricultural challenges.
Key insights
- India's heavy reliance on food imports may expose it to global supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Increasing domestic production of pulses and edible oils could enhance food security.
- Diversifying crop production may help mitigate risks associated with climate change.
Why it matters
This issue is significant as disruptions in food supply could lead to strategic challenges for India.
Source
Times of India
