The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Textiles and Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, has taken a significant step towards providing affordable pulses to consumers. He recently launched the sale of subsidised Chana Dal under the brand name ‘Bharat Dal.’ This initiative aims to convert the government’s chana stock into chana dal, making it accessible to the public at reasonable prices.
Affordable Prices and Distribution
Under the ‘Bharat Dal’ brand, one kg pack of chana dal is available for Rs 60, while a 30 kg pack is priced at Rs 55 per kg. The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) operates retail outlets in Delhi-NCR, where consumers can purchase this subsidised chana dal. Additionally, NAFED collaborates with NCCF, Kendriya Bhandar and Safal to distribute the dal through their outlets. State governments can also procure chana dal for their welfare schemes, police, jails and consumer cooperative outlets.
The Versatile Chana
Chana, the most abundantly produced pulse in India, is widely consumed in various forms across the country. From salads to snacks, chana offers a versatile range of culinary possibilities. Here are some common uses of chana:
i) Chana Whole: Soaked and boiled chana whole is commonly used in salads, providing a healthy and nutritious addition to meals.
ii) Roasted Chana: Roasted chana is a popular snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as an ingredient in various chaats (savory street food).
iii) Fried Chana Dal: Chana dal, when fried, serves as an excellent alternative to tur dal. It can be used in curries and soups, adding a rich and nutty flavor.
iv) Chana Besan: Chana besan, made from ground chana, is a major raw material for namkeens (savory snacks) and sweets. It lends a distinct taste and texture to these delicacies.
Nutritional Benefits of Chana
Apart from its culinary versatility, chana also offers numerous health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile. Here are some key nutrients found in chana:
i) Fiber: Chana is a great source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and aiding in weight management.
ii) Iron: Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia. Chana is a good source of iron, contributing to overall blood health.
iii) Potassium: Chana contains potassium, which plays a vital role in maintaining proper heart and muscle function.
iv) Vitamin B: Chana is rich in various B vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and folate. These vitamins are crucial for energy production, cell health and the proper functioning of the nervous system.
v) Selenium: Selenium is an essential mineral with antioxidant properties that help protect the body against oxidative stress and support immune function.
vi) Beta Carotene: Chana contains beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, supporting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.
vii) Choline: Choline is a nutrient important for brain health, memory and cognitive function. Chana provides a natural source of choline.
Conclusion
With the launch of ‘Bharat Dal,’ the government’s efforts to make pulses accessible and affordable to consumers have taken a significant stride. Chana dal, under this initiative, not only provides a versatile ingredient for various dishes but also offers numerous health benefits. By incorporating chana dal into our diets, we can enjoy its rich nutritional profile and contribute to our overall well-being. So, embrace the goodness of ‘Bharat Dal’ and savor the flavors of health and taste in every bite!