New Delhi: The government's record pulses buffer of 43 lakh tonnes will serve as a strategic cushion against any supply disruption or price flare-up triggered by a likely El Nino weather phenomenon, a top government official said on Thursday."We don't have to dispose it of now. If there is an El Nino effect and it impacts kharif sowing, this buffer stock of pulses will be used," Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare told PTI on the sidelines of a FICCI event.The current buffer stock of pulses is more than double the 18 lakh tonnes held in May 2025, and significantly higher than the 21 lakh tonnes recorded in May 2024, according to government data.Also Read: El Niño needs monitoring, but India better prepared than earlier: Bayer’s Simon WiebuschThe sharp build-up has been driven by the Centre's assured procurement policy, which was introduced to encourage domestic production, reduce import dependence, and shield consumers from price volatility.The official allayed concerns over storage and disposal, noting that pulses are non-perishable and can be safely stored for two to three years.Also Read: Government's wheat procurement surges 17pc to 35 million tonnes, exceeds target for 2026-27 seasonThe India Meteorological Department has forecast a below-normal southwest monsoon (June-September) and flagged the likelihood of El Nino developing in the coming months. The agriculture ministry has already begun drawing up contingency plans to mitigate the phenomenon's impact on kharif (summer) crops.
Record pulses buffer to act as shield against El Nino, says govt official
India holds a substantial 43 lakh tonnes pulses buffer that will protect against supply disruptions and price hikes due to a potential El Nino. The government assures this stock can be utilized if the weather phenomenon affects kharif sowing. This buffer is significantly larger than previous years, built through assured procurement policies.
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