1.In a large saucepan, heat oil over moderate heat. Cook and stir onion 5 minutes or until soft. Add ginger, curry powder and lentils; cook and stir 1 minute or until fragrant.
2.Add kumara, stock powder and water; bring to the boil Reduce heat. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, 20-25 minutes or until kumara is tender. Stand 10 minutes to cool slightly. Blend in batches until smooth. Place in a clean saucepan. Stir soup over low heat until hot.
3.Place pappadums in a single layer on the microwave turntable. Microwave on high (100%), in 30-second bursts, until puffed and crisp
4.Ladle soup into bowls. Top with yogurt and chives. Serve with pappadums.