How Much Do You Know About World Pulses Day? Quiz

World Pulses Day is celebrated on February 10 each year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of pulses in our diets and their benefits for our health and for the environment.

Pulses are also known as legumes. They are a type of plant that produces edible seeds which are harvested and consumed. Examples of pulses include dry peas, dry beans, lupins, lentils, and chickpeas.

India is the largest producer of pulses in the world, producing over 23 million metric tons annually. This accounts for about 25% of global production. Pulses are a staple in Indian cuisine and are used in a variety of dishes.

World Pulses Day emphasizes the immense benefits of pulses. These include their high nutritional value, their role in improving soil fertility, and their potential to mitigate climate change. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of pulses in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) led the celebration of the International Year of Pulses in 2016. The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security.

Pulses have nitrogen-fixing properties that improve soil fertility. This is because pulses have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria in the soil that allows them to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and promotes sustainable agriculture.

Pulses are rich in fermentable fiber, which aids in digestion and may help reduce the risk of obesity, constipation, and colon cancer. Fiber adds bulk to the diet, helps to keep you feeling full, aids in digestion and helps to control weight.

Pulses contain galactans, a type of carbohydrate that can cause bloating and gas in some people. This is because galactans are not easily digested by the body and can ferment in the gut, causing gas and discomfort.

The most widely cultivated pulses in Africa include cowpea, common beans, groundnuts, pigeon pea, chickpea, and soybean. Cowpea in particular is a major food crop in many African countries due to its adaptability to harsh climates and poor soils.

Burkina Faso, a landlocked West African nation, proposed the global observance of World Pulses Day. This proposal was made in recognition of the role pulses play in sustainable agriculture and healthy diets.