Pulses for zero hunger and zero malnutrition

摘要

Pulses are indispensable for Indian agriculture and are grown across a range of farming systems, agro-ecologies and socio-economic profiles. The pulses are an excellent source of proteins, essential minerals, dietary fibres and vitamins, and their health benefits are multifaceted. With their miraculous nutrition profiles, pulses can definitely be an answer to eradicate global hunger and malnutrition, improve soil-health and promote environmental sustainability. With an active technological support, policy initiatives and farmer willingness, India is already at the doorsteps of self-sufficiency and ample quantities of pulses in affordable prices are now available to the masses for their advocated consumption. Nevertheless, measures for their sustenance, profitability and acceptability are needed to be adopted as a long-term goal to make them widely acceptable among fanners and consumers. Increasing public awareness of health and nutrition aspects of pulses, patronizing their cultivation and trade and protecting the rights of pulse growers will ensure zero hunger and malnutrition among the Indian populace.