Istafa Ali
Every year on February 10, the world observes World Pulses Day, a global celebration centred around raising public awareness of the nutritional worth and environmental advantages of pulses. The United Nations’ official website states that World Pulses Day provides a chance to emphasise the importance of sustainable options for diversity.
The edible seeds of leguminous plants that are grown for human consumption are referred to as pulses or legumes. Globally, dried beans, lentils, and peas are the most widely consumed types of the many available varieties. It is a ubiquitous element for various cuisines, from Indian dal to Mediterranean hummus.
Let’s examine the history, relevance, and theme of World Pulses Day
The International Year of Pulses (IYP) was declared in 2016 after the UN General Assembly acknowledged the importance of pulses in 2013. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) wanted to emphasise on the day how beneficial it is for the environment and for human nutrition.
Burkina Faso, a landlocked nation in West Africa, raised the concept of declaring a day as World Pulses Day after the International Year of Pulses came to an end. Eventually, February 10 was declared World Pulses Day by the UN General Assembly in 2019.
Pulses are renowned for being a fantastic source of protein and rich in nutrients. They help manage blood sugar levels and decrease cholesterol since they are high in fibre and low in fat. Additionally, pulses support the treatment of a number of non-communicable diseases and the fight against obesity.
Because farmers may sell them and eat them, they are quite important. Pulses grow easily and need little water to thrive. Because they can withstand drought and other climate-related disasters, they require little upkeep and give farmers security and financial stability.
Due to their ability to fix nitrogen, pulses enhance soil fertility and boost agricultural output. Therefore, it is important to celebrate World Pulses Day in order to raise awareness of its vital significance.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has announced a significant subject for World Pulses Day in 2024. The topic for World Pulses Day in 2024 is “Pulses: Nourishing soil and people,” according to the FAO’s official website.
