World: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated February 10 as the day to celebrate and recognize the potential of pulses to further achieve the Sustainable Development 2030 Agenda.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation, “This celebration presents a unique opportunity to raise public awareness about pulses and their fundamental role in transforming more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, leaving no one behind.
Origin:
The value of the pulses was recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and adopted the day on December 20, 2013, under resolution (A/RES/68/231). The General Assembly also proclaimed 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP).
Since then, the day has been celebrated every year, and the celebrations are led by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. The organization increased the awareness about the benefits – nutritional and environmental, of pulses.
The FAO also highlights the importance of pulses as a part of sustainable food production.
The General Assembly proclaimed February 10 as the day in the year 2019.
Theme:
Every year, the day is celebrated under a specific theme, and this year, the theme of World Pulses Day is “Pulses to empower youth in achieving sustainable agri-food systems”.
Significance of Pulses:
According to the UN;
– Pulses are rich in protein as well as nutrients and for the people who cannot consume dairy or meat products.
– Pulses might help in lowering cholesterol and controlling blood sugar. These can also help in curing obesity.
– As the pulses are legumes, they contribute to the nitrogen fixation in the atmosphere, which extends the productivity of the farmland.
– Pulses are a good option for intercropping and cover crops.
– By reducing the dependence on synthetic fertilizers, pulses can also contribute to climate change mitigation.
– The legumes are also important for farmers, both for selling as well as consumption, which massively contributes to maintaining household food security & economic stability.
