Facts:
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Pulses production was all time high during the last 2 years in the country.
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Due to bumper production, Central Government also has made record procurement of pulses (45.43 lakh MT) during Kharif 2017 and Rabi 2018.
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MH is the largest Kharif pulse producer followed by Karnataka, Raj., MP & UP
Challenges:
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The efficient distribution of available pulses across regions is a challenge.
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Bumper production coupled with increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP) will require additional procurement under Price Support Scheme.
Steps taken to ensure efficient distribution:
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Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved release of pulses to States/UTs at discounted rate to be utilized for various Welfare Scheme from stock of pulses procured under Price Support Schemes (PSS).
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Under this approved Scheme, States/UT Governments will be offered to lift 34.88 lakh MT of pulses at discounted rate over prevailing wholesale market price of sourcing state on First come first serve basis.
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The decision will enable the States/UTs to use pulses in various Welfare Schemes like Public Distribution Scheme (PDS), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Integrated Child Development Programmes (ICDP).