Cheaper imports trigger chickpea price crash

Vijayawada: Bengal gram (chickpea/chana) farmers across Andhra Pradesh are reeling under distress as prices crash, with growers blaming a surge in cheaper imports for eroding incomes. Once considered a stable and remunerative crop, Bengal gram is now facing a steep fall in market rates, raising concerns over the sustainability of pulse cultivation.The state remains a key producer, with cultivation spread across Prakasam, Palnadu, Markapur, Kurnool, Nandyal, Anantapur and parts of Kadapa. Agriculture department estimates show Bengal gram is grown on 6–7 lakh hectares annually, yielding 4–5 lakh tonnes depending on rainfall and seasonal conditions. Its popularity in rain-fed areas stems from low input costs and suitability for the rabi season.But the economics have turned unfavourable this year. Prices that hovered around ₹10,000–12,000 per quintal last season have now plunged below ₹5,000 in several markets. Traders cite oversupply from domestic production and a surge in imports.In Prakasam district, farmers who shifted from tobacco to Bengal gram say the crash has hit them hardest. Many expanded acreage expecting better returns, only to face losses at harvest. Several are struggling to recover even basic cultivation costs.Experts note that steady production combined with sudden import inflows has disrupted market dynamics. Imports of chickpeas have risen sharply, coinciding with peak domestic arrivals and worsening the slump.With procurement limited and intervention minimal, growers fear prolonged weakness could discourage future sowing, impacting overall pulse output. Amid mounting losses, a delegation led by BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari met Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and commerce minister Piyush Goyal, urging the Centre to act. They sought higher import duties, stricter curbs, and an MSP of ₹7,000 per quintal to stabilise prices. "Unless imports are halted, local prices will dip further," warned Vasu, a member of the delegation.