Government to Map Rain‑fed Zones to Raise Pulse Output and Stabilise Prices

The Union Ministry of Agriculture announced a scheme to systematically identify rain‑fed agricultural zones suitable for pulse cultivation, aiming to expand output of lentils, chickpeas, pigeon peas and other legumes. By focusing on rain‑fed lands, the government hopes to reduce dependence on irrigation, lower production costs and encourage farmers in marginal areas to shift to pulses, which have high nutritional value and export potential. The identified zones will be linked to a price‑stabilisation mechanism that will monitor market rates and trigger interventions when prices swing sharply, thereby protecting both growers and consumers. Officials said the mapping exercise will be completed within the next financial year, using satellite imagery and ground surveys, and will be coordinated with state agricultural departments. The move comes as part of broader efforts to achieve self‑sufficiency in pulses and to address rising food inflation, according to ministry sources.