India ranks among the leading producers of pulses globally—consider lentils, chickpeas, and beans.

These crops hold significant importance as they are rich in protein and form a staple part of Indian diets.

By 2025, it is anticipated that India’s pulses production will reach approximately 25-27 million metric tonnes (MMT), marking a substantial increase from the pulses production figures in India for 2020 (22.08 MMT) and 2021 (23.16 MMT).

This upward trend reflects India’s commitment to enhancing pulses cultivation and minimizing imports. However, not all states contribute to this production equally.

Let us analyze the state-wise pulses production in India for 2025, examine the trends, and identify the factors influencing these figures.

State wise Production of Pulses in Every Indian State

Percentage share of every Indian State in Pulses Production

Leading Producers of Pulses in India

According to the most recent projections for 2025, Madhya Pradesh is the foremost state in pulses production within India.

It is anticipated to yield 6.5 MMT, which constitutes approximately 27% of the nation’s total output. The reasons for this dominance include Madhya Pradesh’s extensive agricultural land, fertile soil, and a strong emphasis on cultivating pulses such as chickpeas (gram) and lentils (masoor).

Farmers in this region benefit from improved irrigation systems and governmental assistance, enabling them to enhance their production.

Rajasthan ranks second with a production of 4 MMT. Its arid climate is ideally suited for growing pulses like moong (green gram) and moth beans, which require minimal water.

Following closely is Maharashtra, producing 3.5 MMT, largely due to its significant cultivation of tur (pigeon pea) and urad (black gram).

Collectively, these three states contribute to over half of India’s total pulses production. Uttar Pradesh (2.2 MMT) and Karnataka (1.8 MMT) complete the top five, highlighting the importance of pulses in both northern and southern regions of India.

The Intermediate Contributors

States such as Andhra Pradesh (1.2 MMT), Gujarat (1 MMT), and Chhattisgarh (0.8 MMT) are notable contributors, although they do not reach the levels of the leading states.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana (0.35 MMT) concentrate on pulses like tur and urad, while Gujarat cultivates a variety of pulses that are well-suited to its semi-arid climate.

Odisha (0.6 MMT) and Tamil Nadu (0.5 MMT) are also making progress, with Tamil Nadu demonstrating consistent growth in pulses production compared to the national output of 24.41 MMT in 2022.

Bihar (0.45 MMT) and West Bengal (0.4 MMT) may be smaller producers, yet they remain significant. These states typically grow pulses as secondary crops, often in conjunction with rice or wheat.

Jharkhand (0.3 MMT) and Haryana (0.2 MMT) are positioned lower on the list, with pulses being less prominent compared to other crops such as cereals.

The Minor Contributors

Certain states yield minimal quantities of pulses, often due to unfavorable climatic or land conditions.

For instance, Himachal Pradesh (0.05 MMT), Kerala (0.03 MMT), and northeastern states such as Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland (0.02 MMT each) cultivate limited amounts of pulses, including lentils and indigenous varieties.

These areas predominantly concentrate on rice or vegetables; however, pulses are gradually becoming more prevalent as farmers seek diversification.

Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Sikkim (0.01 MMT each) rank lowest in production. The challenging hilly landscape and significant rainfall hinder large-scale pulse cultivation.

Nevertheless, small-scale pulse farming is on the rise, supported by government initiatives aimed at enhancing food security.

The Non-Contributors

In 2025, nine regions—primarily Union Territories—report zero pulse production: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (DNHDD), Delhi, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.

The reasons for this are varied. Some areas, like Delhi and Chandigarh, lack sufficient agricultural land, while others, such as Lakshadweep’s tropical islands, experience unsuitable climates.

Additionally, certain regions prioritize other crops or industries, as seen in Goa. For instance, the frigid desert conditions in Ladakh render pulse cultivation nearly impossible, and Lakshadweep possesses very little arable land.

What is Influencing the Trends?

Examining pulses production in India for 2025 reveals that the increase from the production levels in 2020 and 2021 is attributed to several significant factors.

Firstly, the government’s initiative towards self-sufficiency in pulses, facilitated by programs such as the National Food Security Mission, has been beneficial. These initiatives provide farmers with improved seeds, financial assistance, and educational resources.

Secondly, the drought-resistant nature of pulses makes them an advantageous option in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat, where water resources are limited.

Thirdly, the growing demand for plant-based protein, both domestically and internationally, is encouraging farmers to cultivate more pulses.

However, there are still obstacles to overcome. Small-scale farmers in states such as Bihar and Jharkhand face challenges with low yields due to inadequate irrigation and outdated agricultural practices.

The northeastern states encounter logistical difficulties, including restricted market access. Additionally, in regions like Kerala and Goa, land shortages and urban development complicate the cultivation of pulses.

The Importance of Pulses

Pulses represent more than mere sustenance; they are essential for the livelihoods of Indian farmers and consumers alike. They contribute to soil nitrogen fixation, promoting healthier farmland for other crops.

Furthermore, they provide an economical source of protein for millions. Analyzing pulses production in India on a state-by-state basis allows us to identify which areas are excelling and which require additional assistance.

For example, enhancing production in smaller states like Odisha or Jharkhand could help decrease India’s reliance on pulse imports, which currently stand at approximately 2-3 MMT annually.

In comparison to pulses production in India for 2022, the projections for 2025 indicate consistent growth, although some states are falling behind.

If India aims to achieve more ambitious targets, such as 30 MMT by 2030, it will need to focus on investing in technology, irrigation systems, and farmer education, particularly in the mid-tier and lower-performing states.

Source

• Area, Production & Yield (Reports) – desagri.gov.in