Scientists have long overlooked a plant that is suddenly being hailed as the answer to the world’s protein demands, as well as a potential cash cow. The pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) provides up to 28% protein and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and lipids. This makes it a great supplement to cereal-based diets that are typically protein-deficient. The pigeon pea, also known as tur dal or arhar is one of India’s most popular pulses, serving as a significant source of protein in a predominantly vegetarian diet. Pigeon pea is also among the top import products in India.
India is the world’s leading producer and importer of pigeon peas. The answer to that contradictory statement is simple; Domestic demand vastly exceeds output. In fact, us Indians adore our pigeon pea, to the point that we are the world’s top pigeon pea importers. Around 703,540 tonnes of pigeon peas were imported in the fiscal year 2016/17. Did you know, we at Shah Nanji Nagsi Exports Pvt Ltd are one of the largest pigeon pea importers in India? More on that later, but first let’s understand what pigeon peas are?
What are pigeon peas?
Pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan) are also known as tur, arhar, congo, or Gunga peas. They originated in Asia and are now produced in a variety of warm and tropical climates across the world. They were initially planted about 3,000 years ago in India and are now widely used in Indian, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. This perennial may develop into a little shrubby tree, and it makes a great low hedge for a windbreak. Pigeon pea seeds are high in protein and include three essential amino acids: Lysine, Tryptophan, and Methionine. In India, peas and lentils are mixed to form a popular soup and are known to have a nutty, grain-like taste.
Health benefits of eating pigeon peas
There are various benefits of adding pigeon pea into your regular diet, including:-
Because of the high folate level in the legumes, including pigeon peas into your normal diet helps to prevent the onset of anemia.
Pigeon peas are minimal in calories, saturated fats, and cholesterol. Their high dietary fiber content helps you lose weight.
They are good suppliers of riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B. These components inhibit fat accumulation, naturally increasing energy levels.
Pigeon peas contain chemical components that function as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing inflammation in your body.
Pigeon peas have a significant level of protein, which assists in the production of tissues, muscles, cells, and bones.
The growing conditions for pigeon peas
Pigeon peas are a perennial legume that grows well in subtropical and tropical climates with little maintenance. Although they are able to tolerate cooler climates, they are generally grown as an annual as heavy frosts will kill them. Although many people choose to treat them as an annual regardless of where they grow. Since it is believed that they live about 5 years on average with the first harvest being the best. The pigeon pea’s popularity might be attributable to its ease of growth. It tolerates poor soil conditions yet really improves the soil at the same time and grows well in less than optimal growing conditions such as drought. Pigeon has been nicknamed food for drought in some areas.
Is growing/ cultivating pigeon pea a good idea?
Apart from the commercial benefits of growing, and becoming a supplier of pigeon peas, there are several other benefits of growing the modest plant.
Pigeon pea plants are extremely tough and resilient.
They can even thrive in poor soil conditions and even endure droughts.
It is a high-protein, nutritious pulse crop that lives for up to 5 years.
It is one of the most all-around crops as all portions of pigeon pea plants can be used. Apart from the consumption of the pea, the leaves can be used for animal fodder and the wood can be utilized to make firewood.
Pigeon pea plants grow quicker than other crops as well as provide excellent shade for other harvests.
The taproot of the pigeon pea plant is deep and can also draw nutrients and water from the soil’s deeper layers. As a result, pigeon pea plants can also be utilized to mitigate soil erosion owing to their extensive taproot.
Given the huge demand for pigeon pea imports in India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other nations, commercial pigeon pea farming can be profitable.
Why should you consider becoming a supplier for pigeon peas in India?
Pigeon peas are sold to more than 94 countries. With India serving as both a large producer and main importer of pigeon peas, it accounts for 90% of worldwide imports. Therefore being the sole significant supplying market. India’s output could not keep up with rising local demand for several years, resulting in a 500,000-ton annual shortfall. Pigeon Pea import in India totaled 116.57 USD million in the fiscal year 2020-2021 (April-November). Dal is made from pigeon peas, which is the bulk of Indians’ main protein source. Thus, it is a great time to become a supplier of pigeon peas. What’s more? We are looking for exporters for pigeon pea import in India.
Contact us to become a supplier.
Email: purchase@shahnn.com
WhatsApp: +918698999634
Website: www.shahnn.com
