Govt exempts pulses from custom duty

New Delhi, June 8 (UNI) In view of the spiralling prices of pulses, known as poorman's source of protein, selling at Rs 40-50 per kg, the government today allowed the import of pulses at zero duty to check the rising prices.

The pulses have been fully exempted from the existing custom duty of 10 per cent, an official release here said.

However, the exemption will be available to the bulk imports through ports till March 31, 2007.

India imports around 2 million tonnes of pulses -- a major portion from Canada -- as the domestic production has been static at about 14 to 15 million tonnes over the years.

UNI JSS/BBS VJ RS1933