India faces food security risks due to import dependence, says NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog vice-chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri warned that reliance on foreign supplies for edible oils and pulses creates vulnerability to global shocks.
NITI Aayog vice-chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri said on Friday that India may not be fully secure in meeting its food requirements due to heavy dependence on imports for essential commodities.
Speaking at an event in Delhi, Lahiri noted that the country imports more than half of its edible oil needs, estimated at 17 million metric tonnes worth approximately $20 billion.
He expressed concern regarding the country's preparedness for sudden price increases or disruptions in global supplies, stating that such shocks to essential items could become a strategic disaster.
According to the Times of India, Lahiri mentioned that chana is imported from Australia, while masoor dal comes from Canada and Australia. Other pulses are sourced from Russia, Myanmar and African countries.
The vice-chairman highlighted that India is the largest consumer and producer of pulses globally, using about 25-27 million tonnes annually, which represents nearly 25 per cent of global consumption.
To reduce import reliance, Lahiri suggested focusing on domestic production, diversifying crops beyond wheat and paddy, and eliminating waste in Indian agriculture.