It is used as a food in form of "Dal" in both the ways i.e. whole or split, husked and de-husked. It is a chief constituent of "Papad". Also used in "Dosa", "Idali", "Halwa” and "Imarati sweets". It is also used as nutritive fodder for milch animal. It acts as soil binder due to deep rooted system prevent soil erosion and also used for green manuring purpose. It has high nutritive value 24 % protein, 60 % Carbohydrates and richest in phosphoric acid, 5 to 10 times richer than others. It contains 1.5 % amino acids, Vitamins and Minerals etc. The crop also builds soil fertility by fixing about 70-90 kg N/ha.