Intro (Micro Notes Format):
In recognition of their nutritional, agricultural, and environmental benefits, the United Nations declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses to promote sustainable food systems and address global food security.
Advantages of Cultivation of Pulses:
1. Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals (e.g., iron, zinc, folate).
- Crucial for vegetarian and low-income diets in developing countries.
- Helps combat malnutrition and anemia.
2. Soil Health Improvement:
- Pulses are leguminous crops that fix atmospheric nitrogen through rhizobium bacteria, enriching soil fertility.
- Reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers.
3. Low Water Requirement:
- Require less water compared to rice or wheat.
- Ideal for rainfed and arid regions (e.g., Rajasthan, parts of Madhya Pradesh).
4. Climate Resilience:
- Pulses are drought-resistant and hardy, suitable for climate-vulnerable zones.
- Help diversify cropping patterns, reducing risk for farmers.
5. Enhances Crop Rotation & Intercropping:
- Improve soil structure and break pest cycles when used in mixed or rotational farming.
- Boosts overall farm productivity.
6. Economic Value for Farmers:
- Rising demand for pulses ensures better market price.
- Government support via MSP and NFSM-Pulses scheme.
- Contributes to doubling farmers’ income goal.
7. Environmental Sustainability:
- Lower carbon footprint than animal-based protein sources.
- Suitable for sustainable agricultural practices.
Conclusion:
The cultivation of pulses offers a triple advantage — nutritional security, environmental sustainability, and economic upliftment — making their promotion vital for global food systems. The 2016 UN declaration was a step toward mainstreaming pulses in policy and practice.
