An Evaluation of Factors Affecting Pulses Production and Consumption in Bihar

Pulses are nature’s precious gift to mankind as it supplements nutritional (protein) requirements of humans, feed to cattle, and nitrogen to the soil. Pulses are extensively grown world over and India ranks second in pulses production. State of Bihar contributes about 2.35 percent of area and 3.06 percent of production of the country, which is about 7-8 percent of the gross cropped area in the state. The productivity of pulses in Bihar ranged between 819 kg/ha in 2000-01 to 897 kg/ha in 2013-14. Pulses are mostly grown under rainfed conditions, on marginal lands, with poor level of input use which has resulted in low productivity and production. The study examines the trends of pulses production and consumption in Bihar. Findings reveal that an increase of 54.68 percent of production in triennium ending 2001-03 to 2012-14. The per capita availability of pulses is still 600 gram to 700 gram per capita per month which is very low compared to recommended levels. The Rabi pulses in the state shows a dominant role in the production. Due to urbanization, shift in dietary pattern, increase in income level, changes in tastes & preferences of consumer, the demand and consumption of pulses show an increasing trend. However, an abnormal increase in retail price of pulses restricts the consumption by low income group population. The study suggests various measures for improvement of pulses production as well as consumption level in the state through serious efforts by different stake holders who are involved in production, marketing and price determination of pulses.