YELLOW PEAS (PEES)

Context

The Central Government’s recent decision to allow the duty-free import of yellow peas has triggered discontent among Indian farmers. Yellow peas, a Rabi crop commonly used as a substitute for chickpeas, have become the subject of legal and economic debate:

• Government Decision – Import of yellow peas without customs duty.
   
• Farmer Concerns – Farmers fear that cheap imports will depress domestic market prices, causing losses to local producers.
   
• Legal Action – The farmers’ group Kisan Mahapanchayat filed a petition in the Supreme Court.
   
• Supreme Court Intervention – The Court has sought a response from the Central Government regarding the policy decision.
   

This controversy reflects the tension between meeting consumer demand through imports and safeguarding farmer interests.

Agricultural and Nutritional Details

• Crop Type – Yellow peas are a Rabi crop.
   
  • Sowing Period – October to November.
     
  • Harvesting Season – March to April.
     
• Soil Enrichment – Yellow peas aid in nitrogen fixation, improving soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
   
• Nutritional Value –
   
  • Rich in protein (20–25%), carbohydrates, and fiber.
     
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals.
     
  • Often used as a substitute for chickpeas (chana), especially when chana prices rise.
     

Global Trade and Indian Demand

• Largest Producer & Exporter – Canada is the world’s top producer and exporter of yellow peas.
   
• Other Exporters – Russia, Ukraine, the USA, and Australia (regions with cold climates) are also major suppliers.
   
• India’s Position –
   
  • India produces yellow peas, but domestic output is minimal.
     
  • With high domestic demand, India relies heavily on imports.
     
  • Between 2023 and 2024, India’s imports of yellow peas reportedly doubled, showing growing dependency on foreign supply.
     

Conclusion

The Yellow Peas import controversy reveals the challenge of ensuring affordable food while protecting farmers, as cheaper imports benefit consumers but undercut domestic pulse growers. Supreme Court scrutiny will decide India’s balance of food security, farmer welfare, and trade commitments.