World Pulses Day is a global event observed on February 10 every year with the primary aim of educating the masses about its nutritional value and environmental benefits. According to the official website of the United Nations, the celebration of World Pulses Day offers an opportunity to highlight the role of its sustainable option for diversification as well.
Pulses, also known as legumes, are the edible seeds of leguminous plants cultivated to consume. Among the variety of types, dried beans, lentils, and peas are the most commonly consumed across the globe. From making hummus in the Mediterranean to an Indian dal, it is a common ingredient for most of the cuisines.
On the celebratory day of World Pulses Day, let’s take a look at its origin, significance, and theme for the year to mark the day with effective results.
History
The UN General Assembly recognised the value of pulses in 2013 and initiated the process of adopting the year 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP). The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the UN aimed the day to focus on public awareness of its nourishing and environmental benefits.
Following the International Year of Pulses conclusion, Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, proposed the idea of observing a day as World Pulses Day. Eventually, in 2019, the UN General Assembly dedicated February 10 as World Pulses Day.
Significance
Pulses are known to be nutrient-rich and a great source of protein. They are low in fat while rich in fibre and they help in lowering the cholesterol level alongside controlling blood sugar as well. Pulses also help to combat obesity and aid in the management of several non-communicable diseases.
They hold significant importance for farmers as they can both sell and consume them. Pulses are easy to grow and require less water to flourish. They are low maintenance as they can tolerate drought and climate-related disasters, providing security and economic stability to the farmers.
The nitrogen-fixing properties that pulses hold, improve the soil fertility and increase productivity of the farmland too. Thus, the celebration of World Pulses Day is significant to spread awareness about its crucial role.
Theme
To mark the celebration of World Pulses Day in 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the UN has announced a meaningful theme. As per the official website of FAO, the theme for World Pulses Day 2024 is ‘Pulses: Nourishing soil and people.’
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
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