India's Food Security at Risk as Diplomatic Spat with Major Supplier Canada Threatens Vital Imports

Canada is an important source of lentils and other food imports for India. A diplomatic spat could threaten these imports and impact India's food security.
With erratic rainfall and lower crop production, India may face shortages and need higher food imports. Canada could use this leverage in the diplomatic row.
Apart from lentils, Canada is also a major source of canola oil, animal feed, and fertilizers like potash for India. Disruptions could harm Indian agriculture.
India may try to retaliate by curtailing agricultural exports to Canada, but this could end up harming India more.
With elections ahead, keeping food prices low is crucial for India. The government is taking stock of reserves, but diversifying import sources could become important.

thewire.in

Relevant topic timeline:

9/19/2023

Canada-India Relations Strained as Murder Allegations Prompt Expulsion of Officials

Canada's allegation of India's involvement in the murder of a Sikh separatist leader may have a limited economic impact but highlights the complications of de-risking from China and diversifying critical raw material supplies, while also prompting concerns about Indian-led bids in Canada and raising geopolitical tensions between the two countries.

9/24/2023

India Diversifies Masur Dal Imports Amid Canada Diplomatic Row

India has imported a significant amount of masur dal (red lentils) despite tensions with Canada, and the government is confident in meeting domestic demand without any problems due to the arrival of approximately six lakh tonnes of lentils at Indian ports.

10/25/2023

Canada-India Diplomatic Tensions Disrupt Canadian Lentil Exports, Threatening Prices for Farmers

Canada's lentil exports to India are at risk as no new contracts are being signed due to escalating diplomatic tensions, potentially impacting Canadian farmers and leading to inflation in India.

10/26/2023

India Ramps Up Lentil Imports from Canada Again After Diplomatic Tensions Ease

India has increased imports of lentils from Canada, its top supplier, despite recent tensions between the two countries, with steady supplies helping to meet the country's demand for the protein-rich staple used in daal curry.