Pulses occupy a central position in Indian agriculture and nutrition, serving as the primary source of dietary protein for millions while contributing substantially to soil health and sustainability. Despite India being the world?s largest producer and consumer of pulses, their productivity has remained stagnant for decades, in sharp contrast to the yield gains achieved in cereals. This article examines the major constraints responsible for low and unstable pulse yields, including dependence on rainfed agriculture, sensitivity to abiotic stresses such as drought, heat, and waterlogging, heavy losses from insect pests and diseases, and the narrow genetic base of most cultivated pulse species. Crop-specific yield limitations in chickpea, pigeonpea, mungbean, and black gram are highlighted to illustrate the diverse and complex nature of these challenges. The article further discusses how modern breeding approaches ranging from pre-breeding and wild germplasm utilization to genomics-assisted breeding, genomic selection, mutation breeding, and speed breeding are transforming pulse improvement. By integrating classical breeding with advanced genomic tools and supportive policies, it is possible to break the long-standing yield barriers in pulses and usher in a new era of climate-resilient, high-yielding, and farmer-friendly varieties. Strengthening pulse productivity is essential not only for enhancing farmer incomes but also for ensuring national nutritional security and sustainable agricultural development.