DGFT Extends ‘Free’ Import of Urad to Ensure Stable Domestic Supply [Read Notification]
DGFT has extended the ‘Free’ import policy for urad to ensure stable supply and control prices in the domestic market.
![DGFT Extends ‘Free’ Import of Urad to Ensure Stable Domestic Supply [Read Notification]](https://images.taxscan.in/h-upload/2026/04/01/2131202-dgft-extends-free-import-of-urad-to-ensure-stable-domestic-supplyjpg.webp "DGFT Extends ‘Free’ Import of Urad to Ensure Stable Domestic Supply [Read Notification]")
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued Notification No. 71/2025-26 dated March 31, 2026, extending the “Free” import policy for urad (black gram) to ensure stable domestic supply in the country. Key highlights Import of urad under ITC (HS) Code 07133110 remains “Free”Earlier validity was till March 31,...
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued Notification No. 71/2025-26 dated March 31, 2026, extending the “Free” import policy for urad (black gram) to ensure stable domestic supply in the country.
Key highlights
- Import of urad under ITC (HS) Code 07133110 remains “Free”
- Earlier validity was till March 31, 2026
- Now extended for another year till March 31, 2027
- No additional conditions or restrictions have been introduced
Importers can continue bringing urad into India without needing licences or facing quantity limits.
What “Free import” means
Under India’s import policy, “Free” means that goods can be imported without prior government approval. This makes it easier for traders to import and ensures smoother supply in the market.
Background and context
India is one of the largest consumers of pulses, including urad, which is widely used in everyday foods like dal, dosa, idli, and vada. Domestic production often fluctuates due to factors such as monsoon performance, crop damage, and changes in sowing patterns.
To manage supply gaps, the government allows imports of pulses. Over the past few years, DGFT has periodically extended the free import policy for urad and other pulses like tur and moong to control food inflation.
This decision helps maintain stable prices of urad dal and ensures continuous supply in the market. I It also supports food security and affordability and gives certainty to importers and traders
This step is especially important at a time when food inflation remains a key concern for policymakers.
Impact on stakeholders
- Consumers benefit from stable prices and availability
- Importers get policy clarity and ease of business
- Farmers may face competition from imports but the government usually balances imports based on domestic production levels
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