Consumption Pattern, Nutritional Security, and Demand Projections of Pulses for India

This study aimed to analyze the consumption and nutritional profiles of rural and urban households in India using data from various rounds of the National Sample Survey. Household consumption patterns have changed over the years. People are diversifying into high-value commodities like milk and pulses. Nutrient intake from pulses increased between 2004–05 and 2011–12. During this period, protein intake from pulses rose from 5.83 to 6.39 g in rural households and from 6.50 to 7.13 g in urban households. In comparing the nutritional intake between rural and urban areas, it was found that the decline was greater in rural areas. People should incorporate more nutritious foods into their diets, and policymakers should explore strategies to enhance overall nutrient intake. At the all-India level, the demand for pulses is projected to rise in the coming years, leading to an expected increase in per capita nutrient intake among households. Based on demand projection data, nutrient availability and intake are anticipated to improve over time, which will significantly help in addressing the existing nutrient intake gap.