Amendment in Import policy of Urad (Beans of the SPP Vigna Mungo (L.) Hepper) (ITC(HS) 0713 31 10) and Tur/Pigeon Peas (Cajanus Cajan) (ITC(HS) 0713 60 00) under ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule I (Import Policy)

## Report on Amendment to Import Policy of Urad and Tur Beans **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes an amendment to the import policy of Urad beans (Vigna Mungo L. Hepper) and Tur/Pigeon Peas (Cajanus Cajan) as notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India on December 28, 2022. The amendment extends the free import policy for these commodities until March 31, 2024. This extension is likely aimed at ensuring a stable supply of these essential pulses in the domestic market. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide a detailed overview of the amendment to the import policy concerning Urad and Tur beans, based solely on the provided official notification. It will outline the changes introduced by this amendment and its potential impact on stakeholders. **3. Policy Overview:** * This document pertains to an *amendment* to the existing import policy. The specific original policy document is not provided, but the notification refers to paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020, as amended from time to time. * The core objective of the *amendment*, as inferred from the text, is to extend the period during which the free import of Urad and Tur beans is permitted. **4. Background and Rationale:** The amendment extends the free import policy, implying that the initial policy with a deadline of March 31, 2023, was likely implemented to address a specific situation, such as a potential shortage or price volatility of Urad and Tur beans in the domestic market. This extension suggests that the initial conditions necessitating the free import policy may still persist, or that the government anticipates continued supply challenges. Without more context it is difficult to determine a more specific rationale. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This notification *amends* the existing import policy for Urad and Tur beans, specifically regarding the duration of the 'free import' status. * **Specific Part of Original Policy Changed:** The amendment changes the expiration date of the free import policy for the specified items under ITC HS codes 07133110 (Urad Beans) and 07136000 (Tur/Pigeon Peas). * **New Rule/Provision:** The "Free Import" status for both Urad and Tur beans is extended until March 31, 2024. * **Difference/Effect of Change:** Previously, the free import policy was set to expire on March 31, 2023. This amendment allows for continued free import of these pulses for an additional year, until March 31, 2024. This eliminates any import duties or restrictions that may have been imposed after the original expiration date, simplifying and reducing the cost of importing these pulses. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary stakeholders affected by this amendment are: * **Importers of Urad and Tur beans:** They can continue to import these commodities without import duties or restrictions until March 31, 2024. * **Consumers of Urad and Tur beans:** The continued free import policy may help stabilize or lower the prices of these essential pulses, benefitting consumers. * **Farmers:** The policy may impact local farmers growing Urad and Tur by affecting price competitiveness. * **Traders and Retailers:** The policy influences the availability and price of Urad and Tur in the market. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for implementing and enforcing this policy. * **Timelines:** The key timeline is the extension of the free import policy until March 31, 2024. * Importers would need to comply with the notification when importing these goods and should be aware that the free import will expire on March 31, 2024 according to this notification. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcome of this amendment is likely to: * Ensure a stable supply of Urad and Tur beans in the domestic market. * Potentially stabilize or lower the prices of these pulses for consumers. * Provide predictability and certainty to importers, allowing them to plan their import activities more effectively. * Avoid potential supply disruptions or price increases that could have occurred if the free import policy had expired on March 31, 2023. **9. Conclusion:** The amendment to the import policy of Urad and Tur beans, extending the free import period until March 31, 2024, is a significant development for importers, consumers, and other stakeholders in the pulses market. It demonstrates the government's intent to ensure a stable supply and potentially manage the prices of these essential commodities. The policy provides clarity and predictability to importers for the specified period.

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