Report by OD bureau, New Delhi: In view of mismatch between demand and supply of pulses and lower acreage under pulses in 2012-13, and delayed monsoon the Government has decided to provide Rs. 20/-as subsidy on the import of pulses to state Governments. 

Imported pulses will supplied at reasonable prices to the BPL population through PDS. Designated import agencies will directly enter into contract with the States/UTs for supply of imported pulses. 

Subsidy of Rs.20 per kilogram will be paid to designated importing agencies up to a maximum of the number of BPL card holders in a particular state. 

The proposed scheme will make available pulses, a critical protein requirement to the vulnerable sections of society, BPL card holder, at subsidized rates. 

State/UT Governments will monitor and ensure that the distribution strategy enables the subsidy benefit to reach the targeted population. 

This scheme will be in operation till 31.03.2013 and a decision regarding its continuation will be taken early next year.