India traders want import cap on moong, urad.

Lentils traders in India have demanded that New Delhi extend to moong and urad the import restrictions that now apply to tur, seeking to ensure sufficiently remunerative prices for the two varieties of pulses. Some traders believe that prices of urad and moong, already ruling much below the state-set levels, will further come under pressure if overseas supplies are allowed to continue. The Commerce Ministry issued a notification, making changes in the import policy of tur (pigeon pea) by putting restriction of 2 lakh tonne in imports during a financial year. The restrictions apply until 2018. Although the trade still awaits clarification on transit cargo in the high seas and bound for Indian shores, it is also of the opinion that the move would protect local farmers. India is likely to harvest a bumper crop of both urad and moong.