Government has decided to set up a panel to chalk out a long-term strategy to tackle the shortage of pulses in the country. The committee, to be headed by Chief Economic Advisor, will consider reasonable hike in minimum support price of pulses and also bonus for the farmers. It will submit its report within two weeks.<br/><br/>The decision was taken at a high-level meeting held in New Delhi yesterday. The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, reviewed the availability pulses and their prices. It was also decided to increase the buffer stock of pulses from 8 lakh to 20 lakh tonnes. The meeting was informed that the pulses production this year is expected to reach 200 lakh tonnes mark and it will significantly increase its availability in the domestic market.<br/><br/>During the discussion, there was concern over high price of chana dal and it was felt that states should take strict action to ensure its availability at reasonable prices as there is no shortage of the commodities.<br/><br/>Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who attended the meeting, offered more pulses to states. Tur will be given to states at 66 rupees per Kilogram and Urad 82 rupees per Kg to sold on retail not exceeding 120 rupees per Kg.<br/><br/>The meeting was also attended by Information and Broadcasting Minister Venkaiah Naidu.